Two years ago, I wrote a review of Krabi's secrets. It's time to release the second part. 555... For this time, I still keep the same concept: finding new things to try in Krabi. I admit that I have been to Krabi many times, but there are still many activities that I have not experienced. There are many tourist attractions that I have never been to, and they have always been a secret to me. To be honest, some of the places I went to this time, I had never heard of before. I had to go and see for myself... Follow me to discover the secrets of Krabi together.
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My recent trip to Krabi was once again by private car from Phuket, just like last time. And, like last time, I traveled during the rainy season. It's safe to say that this is when Krabi is at its most vibrant and alive. Everywhere you look, there's lush greenery as far as the eye can see.
I left Phuket in the morning and entered the Ao Luek district of Krabi in the late morning. The highlight of Ao Luek is the limestone mountains with steep cliffs covered by trees, giving it a wild jungle atmosphere. The first activity of this trip was hidden in the middle of the mountains of Ao Luek. This mission was to conquer the thrilling activities at Tree Top Adventure Park.
Tree Top Adventure Park is an adventure park located in the heart of the forest, offering a variety of challenging activities. Situated within the Ban Kiriwong community forest, it is approximately 8 kilometers from the main road.
From the car park, a 200-meter walk along the edge of the cliff through a lush natural forest leads to the Tree Top Adventure Park. The sight of the various rides suspended among the trees is enough to get your adrenaline pumping.
The activity here consists of 5 different courses. Today, I had the opportunity to try 3 courses: white, blue, and red. Unfortunately, my group only had two people, and the camera I brought was quite bulky, making it impossible to take it up to certain points due to the need to climb cliffs. In addition, it was drizzling, and I was worried that the camera would break, so I couldn't take full advantage of the opportunity to take pictures.
The first station, or the white course, is designed for beginners to learn the basics of climbing and ziplining, including the essential safety aspects of these activities.
Officials are demonstrating how to play safely.
Having learned about the equipment and how to play safely, we started the real thing on the blue course. We gradually climbed the stairs... The highlight of this base was cycling on a wooden bridge, which required both strength and courage. Although there was a sling, I couldn't help but feel a little nervous.
Next, we transformed into wizards and witches riding broomsticks across the trees, giving us a real Harry Potter vibe. Then, we took a short zipline ride, alternating with walking on tightropes and wooden bridges spaced far apart. If you're afraid of heights, I guarantee your adrenaline will be pumping non-stop.
The blue course was completed with a slight sweat... The sky began to darken and the wind picked up, and it looked like it was going to rain. But I didn't want to miss another station where I could enjoy the view from a high angle... So I volunteered to play alone and had to leave my camera at the bottom for fear of getting it wet and being less agile when climbing... This station started with a climb up a cliff, which made me sweat and mix with the raindrops on my face (I was really glad I didn't bring my camera with me).
From this point on, there are no more pictures, as I did not bring a camera with me. The wind was strong at the top, and there were occasional showers of rain. I didn't want to risk it.
The next activity was a zip line across a cliff to a large tree on the other side, offering a breathtaking view of the lush greenery. ... Next was a double zip line, but since I was alone, I had to ride with a trainer. 555 ... Finally, we walked along rope ladders, alternating with short zip lines, until the end.
It takes about an hour to play 2 courses + 1 practice course. If you want to play all of them, it will probably take 2-2.5 hours. I must say that the location of Tree Top Adventure Park is perfect because it is shady, so you won't get too tired. Moreover, the surrounding area is also lush and beautiful. In addition to ziplining, there are many other activities such as rock climbing and other cool features. I guarantee that it will be a hit with thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies. For those who are afraid of heights, it is even more worth trying because it will make the fun multiply. After completing all the stations, you might even stop being afraid of heights altogether.
Contact Information Tree Top Adventure Park
For those interested in participating in this exciting and challenging activity, please contact: 084 462-3443
Website: www.treetopadventurepark.com, www.facebook.com/TreeTopAdventurePark
Email: [email protected]
To reach Tree Top Adventure Park, use the coordinates 8.326934, 98.7287787. Alternatively, transportation from your hotel can be arranged for those without personal vehicles.
While driving out, I stopped to take pictures at the pond and stream just before reaching Tree Top. The staff suggested that if I come again, I should take the 1 km walking path along the stream to Tree Top for a more immersive experience.
After working up a sweat from our adventures in Ao Luek, it was time to refuel with some delicious food. This time, we decided to try a restaurant we hadn't been to before. We heard that Krua Anchalee, located next to Lotus in Krabi Town, has secret recipes for delicious dishes, just like my favorite restaurant, Ruen Mai (which is actually located in the original location of Ruen Mai before it moved to the road to Ao Nang). I'm not sure if they're related, but the signature dishes are very similar. Without hesitation, I ordered three of my favorite dishes: crab meat chili paste, sweet vegetable curry, and soy sauce fried fish (I would have ordered more, but there were only two of us and I didn't want to burst).
The appearance and taste of the dishes are very similar to those of the famous Ruean Mai restaurant. All three dishes were delicious. The prices are reasonable, not too expensive. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Krabi. The secret recipes of the dishes are truly exceptional.
The coordinates of Krua Anchalee restaurant are 8.077245, 98.9071547.
After a satisfying lunch, I have an afternoon spa appointment at "Waree Rak Hot Spring Retreat" in Khlong Thom district. Many people are familiar with the Emerald Pool and the hot waterfall, but did you know that across the canal from the hot waterfall is a beautiful resort that offers accommodations and wellness programs focused on water therapy? The hot water used for water therapy at Waree Rak has a temperature of around 42-43 degrees Celsius and is cooled down to around 30 degrees to help the body adjust before entering the hotter pool. This water is natural, odorless, and has a pH of 6.9, which is almost neutral, making it ideal for water therapy.
The secret I want to share is that the price of the full-day spa program (8:30-15:30) here is incredibly attractive (I would even say very cheap). The package includes welcome fruits, body scrub, hot-cold natural spring bath + Thai water yoga + shoulder and neck acupressure massage, lunch, handicraft lesson, Thai massage, and pick-up and drop-off service for only 2,800 baht (in my hometown of Phuket, this might only cover the cost of a round-trip taxi ride, as the distance from here to Krabi city is around 100 km).
For those driving, follow the same route as the hot waterfall, but turn left at the intersection next to the hot waterfall's toll booth. Then, follow the signs. Varee Rak has three zones. The first zone is a hot spring for guests who only want to soak in the hot spring. The next zone is the accommodation area. Guests who use the half-day and full-day programs must drive to the innermost part. There will be an old wooden house that has been converted into a reception area.
The changing rooms and lockers are located nearby, where Varee Love has prepared stylish outfits for you. From here, it's a short walk to the hot springs, which are divided into six zones to accommodate six groups of guests simultaneously. Each zone features treatment beds, hot springs, warm water pools, and room-temperature water pools (let's call it cold water) for hydrotherapy treatments.
The half-day spa treatment began with a body cleanse, followed by an herbal scrub to open the pores. The scrub cream is a proprietary blend of Waree Rak, using finely ground jasmine rice instead of salt to avoid irritation. It is mixed with yogurt, coconut oil, and tamarind. After the scrub, my skin felt noticeably softer. I then soaked in alternating hot and cold water.
In addition to the relaxation provided by the hot spring, the surrounding vines and forest create an atmosphere at Varee Rak that is more special than typical hot springs, which are often communal or poorly integrated with the natural environment. In fact, soaking in the hot spring here provides a level of relaxation comparable to natural onsen in Japan.
After soaking, there will be a step to do basic Thai yoga or Rishi Dhatton to relax the muscles. Then, soak in hot and cold water again.
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The next step is a shoulder, neck, and shoulder blade massage using herbal poultices. This is another wonderful part, especially for those who suffer from office syndrome, like myself, with tight shoulders and shoulder blades.
The atmosphere of the service
After that, soak in hot water and cold water again, served with fresh coconut water to refresh. Staff will be on hand to closely monitor every process.
After soaking in the hot spring, you can change your clothes. Then, snacks, fruits, and drinks will be served to conclude the half-day program. For the full-day program, lunch and Thai massage are included.
During my research, I encountered some confusion due to the different names used for the resort on various websites. For example, some websites used the names "Waree Raksa" or "Waree Rak," while the resort's own website uses the name "Wareerak." Additionally, searching for "Waree Rak" on Google does not display the resort's website on the first few pages of results. Therefore, I have included the resort's website address below for your convenience.
You can contact us through our website at www.wareerak.co.th or via Facebook at @wareerakhotspringspa.
Coordinates of Vareeluck: 7.930517,99.2048328
The final program for today is to uncover the secrets of the luminous Manorah at PAKA Show Park, located on the main road to Krabi Airport, opposite the entrance to Tiger Cave Temple, not far from Krabi town.
The PAKA show is a new landmark in Krabi that combines the traditional Manohra dance of the south with modern performance elements. The show is presented through a captivating story with stunning light, sound, and visual effects, making it a universally appealing experience for audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
I arrived at the show venue around 6 pm. Taking the opportunity to photograph the location, I captured the beautifully decorated white dome with the backdrop of the stunning limestone mountains, a classic Krabi landscape.
After receiving the show ticket, enter the circular stage area surrounded by seats. Those who purchased tickets with dinner included will be seated in a special zone with tables, allowing them to enjoy their meal while watching the show.
The food at the PAKA Show was exceptional.
Initially, I planned to eat sparingly as it was dinnertime and my primary focus was the show. However, after trying a couple of dishes, I was pleasantly surprised by the delicious flavors. I ended up going back for seconds and trying almost everything!
My personal favorites were the rice noodles with fish balls, which were so good I almost overindulged. If I wasn't trying to control my diet, I wouldn't have hesitated to try the roti as well. I had to resist the temptation several times as I walked past the stall.
The show began around half past seven with a narrative from a young woman searching for the meaning of Manorah, leading to an adventure in a land beyond imagination, whether it be the underworld or the Himavanta forest. The story of Manorah and Terit, which is considered sacred for Manorah performances, is told in each episode of the show. The costumes and props are adorned with fluorescent colors, and the use of light and shadow on the stage curtain makes the show visually stunning and beautiful.
One of the advantages of the PAKA Show is that it allows still photography. Therefore, I have some beautiful pictures to share. However, video recording is not permitted. Time-lapse photography, on the other hand, is allowed. The time-lapse below was taken with a GoPro. Staff members approached me twice to inquire about whether I was recording video, but when I explained that it was a time-lapse, they had no objections. Unfortunately, the battery died before I could capture the entire show.
After the show, the performers came out to thank the audience and invite them to join in the fun by dancing with them in a friendly atmosphere. They also came out to take photos with the audience in front of the dome, getting up close and personal.
I recommend reading the synopsis on the ticket before watching the PAKA Show, as it will help you understand the performance better. For tickets that include dinner, the price is 2,200 baht, but there are promotions available. For example, in August, if you come with your mother, you will only pay half price, which is 1,100 baht per person. This is a great deal!
For more information about PAKA Show Park, please visit www.pakashowpark.com or fb page @pakashowpark.
Coordinates of PAKA Show Park: 8.106098, 98.9199187
After finishing the show around 8:30 PM, I had to rush to the ferry pier at Ban Hua Hin to catch the last ferry to Koh Lanta, which departed at 10 PM. Initially, I was a bit worried because the car's GPS indicated that I would arrive at 10:15 PM, which meant I would have to find accommodation nearby and cross over the next morning. However, based on the distance, I was still quite confident and continued driving according to the original plan. I arrived at the pier at 9:40 PM, comfortably in time to board the car ferry.
To board the car ferry, there is a fee of 100 baht per car, including the driver. Passengers are charged an additional 10 baht each. Remember to purchase tickets at the sales point located approximately 500 meters before the pier. Otherwise, you will have to turn around and waste time. (The sign is clearly visible, so don't get carried away while driving.)
After waiting in line for about 15 minutes, it was time to board the ferry to the island. The ferry ride took about 15 minutes as well, as the distance is not very far. We then drove onto Koh Lanta Noi and crossed the Siri Lanta Bridge, which connects Koh Lanta Noi to Koh Lanta Yai. This bridge was only completed in 2016, making travel to Koh Lanta Yai much more convenient and faster than before. Tonight, I am staying at the Layana Resort & Spa, one of the few 5-star resorts on Koh Lanta.
As it was already late, tonight's program consisted of nothing but getting a good night's rest after a tiring day of activities (but in reality, I couldn't help but take pictures of the room and the atmosphere at the pool and the beachfront restaurant before going back to sleep).
The next morning, the wind on Koh Lanta was quite strong, and the sky was overcast. I began to accept that I wouldn't get the emerald green sea pictures I had seen before on this trip to Lanta. However, I took the opportunity to fully explore the secrets of this 5-star resort. Layana is located far from the shore and is more expensive than most accommodations on Koh Lanta, yet it has a steady stream of customers and consistently ranks first on TripAdvisor. This made it very intriguing.
Breakfast at Tides Restaurant
The breakfast is served at Tides Restaurant, which is located right on the beachfront. The atmosphere is excellent, offering a truly relaxing seaside experience. With only 50 rooms and a policy of accepting guests over 18 years of age, the resort maintains a peaceful and uncrowded ambiance.
Layana's Breakfast Buffet: A Culinary Delight
Layana's breakfast buffet boasts a diverse selection of dishes, catering to a wide range of preferences. In addition to the buffet spread, a rotating menu of additional items is available each week, offering guests even more options to satisfy their cravings. The buffet is designed to ensure guests leave feeling full and content.
The quality of the breakfast offerings is exceptional. Notably, the tea selection features TWG, a premium brand known for its exquisite blends. Moreover, the staff consistently demonstrates professionalism and warm hospitality, further enhancing the dining experience.
I hadn't even finished breakfast when the rain started pouring down, welcoming me to my first morning in Lanta. By the time the rain subsided enough for me to walk back to my room, I had already drunk two more cups of tea (but I loved it, hehe). I managed to capture a few photos of the cloudy but refreshing sky.
The morning sun cast its golden rays as I drove along the coastal road, my destination being the Lanta National Park at the southernmost tip of Koh Lanta Yai. I stopped to take pictures along the way, but the weather seemed determined to deny me any vibrant shots. Nevertheless, it was clear that Koh Lanta retains much of its natural beauty. The mountainous forests are remarkably untouched, and as I ventured further, nearing the park headquarters, I felt as though I were traversing the Mae Hong Son-Tak road. The only difference being that Lanta boasts a stunning coastline instead of the Mae Nam Mae.
The Lanta National Park is moderately crowded with tourists. The white lighthouse stands majestically at the tip of the cape, making it a popular spot for photography. However, as mentioned earlier, the weather today was not ideal, so I was unable to capture many photos of the atmosphere.
After capturing the signature images of Lanta, I returned to the resort to relax. Let's take a look at the beautiful evening atmosphere.
The experience at Layana Resort & Spa is truly worthy of a 5-star resort. The quality of the facilities and amenities is excellent, but more importantly, the staff is attentive, caring, and always greets guests with a smile. Their professionalism is evident in every aspect. It's no wonder that many tourists choose to stay here instead of the cheaper resorts that abound on Koh Lanta. I understand that during the high season, it's necessary to book well in advance, otherwise the rooms will be fully booked.
The only drawback I noticed was the somewhat hard water for bathing, even during the rainy season. This felt unfamiliar, and I'm unsure if this is a common issue across all resorts.
The next morning, there was enough sunshine to take pictures after breakfast. After that, it rained lightly and continuously.
For more information about Layana Resort & Spa, please visit www.ayanaresort.com or follow us on Facebook @layanaresort.
With the rain showing no signs of stopping, I abandoned my plans to drive around Koh Lanta and opted to check out and try my luck with the weather on the mainland instead.
On the way back, we stopped to take pictures of the newly completed Sirilanta Bridge.
Ferry ticket
The rain forced me to take pictures of the harbor from inside the car through the window.
Upon returning to the shore, the weather improved slightly and the rain stopped. This presented an opportunity for me to explore another hidden gem of Krabi, located not far away: the **Hin Peng Waterfall**.
I had never heard of this waterfall before, but I saw pictures of it on Facebook posted by a young photographer I know. Judging from its location, it wasn't too far off the beaten path, so I decided to check it out. The pictures made it look like a beautiful waterfall.
This waterfall is located in Khlong Phan Subdistrict, Khlong Thom District, in the same district as Emerald Pool and Hot Waterfall. From the main Phetkasem Road, drive along a paved road for about 10 km to the waterfall parking lot. Then walk about 400 meters to reach the first level of the waterfall. It is not a high waterfall, and the water falls into a pool and flows down into a stream. This level is not the highlight, so a short visit is enough, unless you want to swim, as this level is safer than the others. (At the beginning, you will encounter a small dam, but don't be fooled into taking pictures there, as the top is much more beautiful.)
The First Tier of the Waterfall
From this point, a short hike up a hill through a dense forest leads to the second waterfall, which is taller and more scenic than the first. There are many opportunities for photography, but caution is advised as there are no official viewing platforms. Visitors must navigate along the edge of the waterfall and over rocks. If your shoes are slippery, it is recommended to stay on the path to avoid falling into the water.
Second tier waterfall
From the second floor, walk up the slope for a while to reach the upper waterfall, which is higher than the first two floors. It is considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in terms of landscape. In the picture, it may look small because there are no people standing for comparison, but in reality, it is quite impressive.
Third tier of the waterfall
Visiting a waterfall during the rainy season has its advantages, such as the abundance of water. However, photographers face the challenge of constantly wiping water droplets from their lenses.
I didn't spend much time photographing this level of the waterfall because I was alone and worried about the people waiting at the second level. I walked back down even though there were still many beautiful angles that I hadn't captured. If I have the chance, I'll have to prepare better and come back for another attempt.
Coordinates of Hin Peng Waterfall: 7.852855, 99.2477673
My Krabi trip concluded at Hin Peng Waterfall. From there, I took a long drive back to Phuket, savoring the refreshing atmosphere of Krabi during the green season. This journey offered a diverse range of experiences and allowed me to rediscover hidden aspects of Krabi. Once you uncover these "secrets," remember to keep them under wraps.
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