If you’re an adventure seeker visiting Krabi, the Khao Ngon Nak hiking trail, also known as the Dragon Crest trail, should be at the top of your list. This 4 km (one way) trek offers breathtaking panoramic views of Krabi’s lush landscapes, from its jungle-covered hills to its iconic limestone cliffs. Here’s a breakdown of my experience, along with everything you need to know about this incredible hike.
Trail Overview
- Distance: 8 km round trip (4 km one way)
- Difficulty: Moderate (physically demanding, but manageable)
- Duration: 4–5 hours (including breaks for photos)
- Elevation: 565 meters
This trail, often hailed as one of the best hikes in Krabi, promises to deliver not just a challenging trek but also some of the most stunning views in the region.
Getting to the Trailhead
Reaching the starting point of the Dragon Crest trail is fairly straightforward. The best options are to take a taxi or rent a scooter for the day. We opted for a taxi arranged through our hotel, which cost 800 BAHT each way. While it’s possible to negotiate a cheaper rate (around 400 BAHT) with a local tuk-tuk driver, we preferred the convenience of booking a reliable minivan. If you’re feeling more adventurous, renting a scooter is a great option too. The trailhead is located near “Dragon Crest (Khuan Sai)” on Google Maps, so finding it is easy.
What to Expect Before You Go
Before embarking on this hike, it’s important to note that the trail is not recommended for the elderly, young children, or those with health conditions due to its steep inclines and physical demands. I would also suggest starting early in the morning, around 8 AM, when the park opens. By noon, the heat in Krabi can become unbearable, so an early start allows you to enjoy the hike before the temperature climbs too high.
Pack enough water—at least 1 liter—and be sure to wear comfortable shoes or hiking sandals with good grip. Avoid flip-flops as they won’t offer the support you’ll need. The trail is mostly shaded, but at the summit, you’ll be exposed to the sun, so sunscreen and insect repellent are a must.
The Trail: An Adventure Awaits
The hike starts with a fairly easy walk through a wide, rocky path in the jungle. It’s a great warm-up before the more challenging sections ahead. Soon, the trail starts to steepen, and that’s when the real workout begins. The path can be slippery, especially if it’s been raining, so watch your step.
One thing I appreciated about this trail is that it’s not overly technical. There are ropes and natural handholds along the way to help you climb and descend. It’s a strenuous climb, but with plenty of opportunities to take breaks, even those who aren’t in peak physical condition can handle it.
After some more climbing, you’ll encounter a set of wooden stairs—this is where the real sweat comes in. But the effort is well worth it, as the first viewpoint is just around the corner. From here, you’ll get a taste of what’s to come—a glimpse of the magnificent views that await you at the peak.
Reaching the Summit: The Dragon Crest
After tackling a few more steep sections, the final stretch leads you to the summit, Hang Nak Peak. The views here are absolutely incredible, with sweeping vistas of Krabi’s coast and surrounding islands. It’s the perfect place to catch your breath, snap some photos, and take in the scenery.
Be sure to push on for the last few meters to fully appreciate the views, as they continue to improve the higher you go. While the final leg is a bit tricky due to the rocky terrain, it’s totally worth it for the sense of accomplishment and the stunning panoramas.
Heading Back
Once you’ve soaked in the views, it’s time to head back down. While the descent may seem easier, it requires plenty of focus. The rocks and roots can make it easy to trip, so take your time and watch where you step. Thankfully, there are plenty of handholds and ropes to help you down safely.
As you make your way back to the trailhead, you can relax with a cold drink from the small kiosk, where you can purchase snacks and beverages. Sitting back with a chilled Coke, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle, felt like the perfect end to an unforgettable adventure.
Final Thoughts
The Khao Ngon Nak trail offers one of the best hikes in Krabi, combining physical challenge with incredible rewards in the form of spectacular views. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone just looking for an adventure, this trail has something to offer. If you’re planning to visit Krabi, don’t miss the chance to conquer the Dragon Crest—it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
