Exploring Krabi’s landscapes by kayak is one of the most rewarding ways to discover its natural beauty. Than Bok Khorani National Park, with its mangroves, hidden caves, and limestone cliffs, offers a peaceful escape from the busier parts of southern Thailand. My day here combined adventure, history, and relaxation, making it one of the most memorable experiences of my time in Krabi.
Setting Off on the Tha Pring River
The day began with an early hotel pickup and a short drive to a small kayaking center along the Tha Pring River. Our guide, a local from Ao Nang, spoke excellent English and shared fascinating details about the region throughout the trip.
Although I had never kayaked before, I quickly got the hang of it. The river was calm, the kayaks were stable, and the waterproof bags provided kept valuables safe. Paddling through the still water, surrounded by lush greenery and dramatic karst formations, immediately felt magical.
Through Mangroves and Secret Lagoons
Our journey started in the mangrove channels, where the tangled roots created a maze-like atmosphere. The guide pointed out signs of wildlife, from snakeskins to bird calls, and told us about the animals that thrive here—gibbons, civets, fishing cats, and even pythons. While I didn’t spot any snakes myself, just knowing they were around made the experience more exciting.
Eventually, we slipped through a narrow cave that opened into a secluded lagoon. Accessible only at low tide, this hidden pool was quiet and serene, with the sound of unseen creatures echoing from the dense jungle walls. It felt like stepping into a secret world.
Limestone Caves and Local Life
After a quick break onshore, we continued paddling past towering cliffs where enormous wasp nests clung to the rock faces. Along the way, our guide shared stories about local life, especially how fishing still plays a vital role for many families. For older generations without pensions, fishing remains a livelihood and a way of bartering for other essentials.
The highlight of this stretch was Tham Lot, or Lot Cave. Gliding beneath its stalactites by kayak rather than on foot made the formations seem even more spectacular. We even pulled over to watch tiny mudskippers wriggling across the sand near the water’s edge.
Ancient Paintings at Phi Hua To Cave
The next stop was Phi Hua To Cave, also called Tham Hua Kalok, meaning “Human Skull Cave.” After docking our kayaks, we walked inside to find prehistoric paintings scattered across the walls and ceiling. More than 200 of these artworks survive, believed to be over 3,000 years old. The cave also houses colonies of bats and has a viewpoint outside with sweeping views of the surrounding park. Standing there, it was easy to imagine how people once lived and thrived in this landscape.
A Refreshing Swim at Klong Srakaew
After kayaking, we returned to the center for a Thai lunch before heading to Klong Srakaew, a natural freshwater pool tucked in the jungle. The crystal-clear water was perfect for swimming, and aside from a few locals, it was wonderfully quiet. Small fish darted between swimmers, and jungle trails nearby offered short walks for those wanting to explore further.
Wrapping Up the Day
By the time we returned to our hotel in the late afternoon, I felt like I had seen a side of Krabi that many travelers miss. Between paddling through caves, uncovering ancient art, and cooling off in hidden pools, the day struck the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
If you’re looking for something beyond the usual island tours, a kayaking trip in Than Bok Khorani National Park is an unforgettable way to experience Krabi’s wild and unspoiled side.
