Than Bok Khorani National Park is a protected area that covers 121 square kilometres in Amphoe Ao Luek, Krabi Province. The park has a stunning mix of land and sea ecosystems, including limestone mountains, evergreen forests, mangrove forests, and many islands. Visitors can see beautiful coral reefs, caves, and jungles, as well as waterfalls and other plants that live underwater. The park is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is a great place for eco-tourism activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling, hiking, and nature trails. Nature lovers will love it because of its beautiful scenery, tropical flowers, and emerald-green creeks.
History of Than Bok Khorani National Park
The purpose of Than Bok Khorani National Park is to protect the area’s many different ecosystems, such as mangroves, limestone hills, and tropical forests. In the past, people lived in the area and used the rivers and forests for fishing, farming, and religious practices. Some of the caves in the park, such as Tham Pee Hua Toe, have ancient murals and artefacts that are 2,000 to 3,000 years old. These give us a better idea of early human settlements and cultural traditions. The park has become a safe haven for rare plants, like wild gardenias, and a wide range of marine life over the years. Krabi is a great place for sustainable tourism because it has a lot of natural beauty, history, and different kinds of plants and animals.
What to Do at the Than Bok Khorani National Park?
- Hike the Nature Trails: There are 1 km and 3–4 km trails in the park that lead to mangrove forests and are surrounded by beautiful plants.
- Visit Pristine Waterfalls: to relax and swim in healing pools at the base of multi-tiered waterfalls. These waterfalls are great for picnics or taking pictures.
- Explore Caves: Visit seven preserved caves, such as Tham Lot Cave and Tham Pee Hua Toe. These caves have ancient murals, limestone formations, and the Nam Lang River.
- Island Hopping and Snorkelling: Use a long-tail boat or kayak to get to Ko Hong and other islands. The waters are clear and the coral reefs are colourful.
- Kayaking and paddleboarding: are fun water sports that are good for the environment. You can do them through mangroves and calm creeks.
- Trail to Shrine: Walk along paths that lead to shrines where locals light firecrackers as gifts for the spirits that live there.
- Picnicking by Streams and Lotus Pond: A 1.8-kilometer trail connects a stream to the peaceful Lotus Pond, where you can rest and take pictures.
Directions, Timings, Entry Fee and the Best Time to Visit
The best way to get to Than Bok Khorani National Park is to hire a taxi or rent a car and drive from Krabi Town. The best time to go is between November and March, when Krabi has dry, sunny weather. People can visit Than Bok Khorani National Park every day. There are no strict hours, but it is best to go between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm to enjoy the trails, waterfalls, and water activities safely. Adults pay 300 Baht to get into the park, and kids pay 100 Baht.
Tips before you visit the Than Bok Khorani National Park
- When hiking and exploring caves, wear shoes that are comfortable.
- Bring sunscreen and bug spray, especially in the summer.
- There are no places to stay or eat a lot inside the park, so bring water and light snacks.
- Don’t touch or bother coral reefs; they are home to wildlife.
- Wear life jackets when you use long-tail boats or kayaks.
- Make plans ahead of time for cave tours or trips to the islands.
- The best light and fewest people are in the early morning or late afternoon.
Other Parks to Visit in Krabi
- Khao Phanom Bencha National Park: is known for its waterfalls, forest trails, and mountain peaks.
- Mu Ko Lanta National Park: is known for its beautiful beaches, lighthouse viewpoints, and coral reefs.
- Than Sadet-Ko Pha-ngan National Park: has rivers, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints.
