|
|---|
Eco-Tourism
Few places in the region offer the breadth and quality of activities for the eco-tourist as Krabi, Thailand. A wide range of activities are available, including world-class rock-climbing, caving, sea kayaking, camping and hiking, just to name a few. In addition, the area offers a full range of accommodations, as well as some great places to get away for a break from the action. This broad spectrum of activities and accommodations, when combined with some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, make Krabi an ideal destination for the eco-tourist.
Bird watching at Khao Phanom Bencha National Park
Camping at Khao Phanom Bencha National Park Caving In addition to the fabulous rock climbing, this area offers some of the most famous caves in the region, which are home to a number of marvelous stalagmites and stalactites. Guides can be arranged from many of the guest houses in the area.
Tham Pranang Nok is the most famous cave in the area, and set on the stunning Pranang Peninsula, certainly one of the most beautiful. Tham Pranang Nai This cave, only recently discovered, is larger than Tham Pranang Nok, and is is composed of three large caverns. Inside these caverns are some of the most spectacular limestone formations, including a "waterfall" of crystalline quartz. The entrance to this cave is located on East Rai Le. Sa Pranang Located on the Pranang Peninsula is Sa Pranang, a spectacular, aquamarine lagoon tucked into the side of a tall limestone cliff. This unique and breathtaking location can be reached by way of a steep cave path on the Pranang Peninsula. Guides are available from guesthouses and hotels, and the hike takes about 45 minutes Tham Lot This incredible limestone cave contains some of the most spectacular stalagmites and stalactites in the area, and extends into a labyrinth of wandering passages, which are navigable during low tide. This cave can be reached by boat from the Bho To pier in Ao Luk. Tham Hua Kalok This cave, situated in close proximity to Tham Lot, is known for its pre-historic paintings. Tham Hua Kalok is split into two main sections, accessible by a single entrance. The left section is a larger cavern lit by a small opening in the top. The right section is an open hall, which many believe was once the dwelling of pre-historic peoples. Inside the right section there are over 70 rock paintings portraying both people and animals. Also found in the cave were several large skulls, and a large pile of shells. This cave is along the same route as Tham Lot, and can be reached by boat from Bho To pier. Tham Phet Tham Phet, or Diamond Cave, is another remarkable cave located in Than Bokkhorani National Park. This cave derives its name from its shimmering rock walls, which reflect light. Tham Phet can be reached via the National Park Office at Tham Bokkhorani, where guides can be arranged. Climbing Climbing at Pranang Peninsula In recent years the sheer limestone faces and overhangs of Krabi's spectacular cliffs has earned the area a reputation as one of the premier rock-climbing sites in the world. Every year literally thousands of climbers come to Krabi specifically to challenge themselves on the famous limestone karsts, and most will agree that it was well worth the trip. There are over 150 challenging pegged routes, concentrated primarily on the Pranang peninsula, between Hat Tham Pranang and East Hat Lei Rai. These routes are typically in the mid to high difficulty range, with numerous overhangs, and sheer limestone faces. However, there are also several beginner climbs, so that even the novice climber can experience the thrill of climbing. Equipment rentals, instruction, and guides are all available at nearly every restaurant, bar, and guesthouse in the area, and for an extremely reasonable price. Rafting One of several eco-tourism activities available in Krabi is sea canoeing, and there are few better ways to thoroughly enjoy the spectacular scenery than by drifting leisurely amongst the limestone karsts. This is perhaps the best way to explore Krabi's countless inlets and deserted beaches, allowing travelers to discover the true magic of the area at their own pace. Canoe and kayak rentals are available at many of the guest houses in the Ao Pranang area, and guides are also available to lead your through the myriad of small, deserted islands. Trekking Trekking at Khao Phanom Bencha National Park This national park, located in the interior of Krabi, is one of the most pristine places in the region. Over 50 sq km in size and virtually unexplored, this park boasts several beautiful waterfalls, and an abundance of wildlife including clouded leapords, black panthers, Asiatic black bears, and leaf monkeys, to name a few. In addition, this park is home to several species of tropical birds, including the Gurney's pitta, and Nordmann's greenshank, two of the world's rarest birds. Khao Phanom Bencha's numerous low-impact hiking trails provide an excellent viewing point, and overnight camping is permitted for a fee of 5 baht per person. |
