Our journey begins with a visit to one of Krabi's most impressive sites - Wat Tham Suea, also known as the Tiger Cave Temple. It's a place of worship that combines spirituality with incredible views of the surrounding area. The temple is located on top of a limestone cliff, and it takes 1,260 stairs to reach it. While the climb may seem like a challenge, the reward is well worth the effort. At the top, not only a beautiful temple with a golden Buddha statue awaits, but also a panoramic view of Krabi province that will take your breath away. Wat Tham Suea is not only a tourist attraction, but above all a place of deep spiritual significance for the local community. It is worth remembering to dress appropriately and be respectful during your visit.

The next point of our trip is Khao Khanab Nam, a pair of distinctive limestone rock formations that form a kind of gateway to Krabi city. These two rocks, rising 100 meters above sea level, are not only a symbol of the region, but also hide fascinating caves with prehistoric cave paintings and traces of human presence hundreds of years ago. A boat trip around Khao Khanab Nam is a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature while immersing yourself in the history of the region. Inside the caves, you can see impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations and learn about the legends associated with the site.

For those looking for even more breathtaking views, East Railay Viewpoint is a must-see. This spot offers a panoramic view of the Railay Peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches and spectacular rock formations. Reaching the viewpoint requires some effort - you have to climb a steep, sometimes muddy trail, using ropes as an aid. However, the view that awaits at the top is worth every drop of sweat. From East Railay Viewpoint you can admire the blue waters of the Andaman Sea, white sandy beaches and majestic limestone cliffs. It's the perfect place to take souvenir photos and pause for a moment to appreciate Krabi's natural beauty.

Each of these places offers unique experiences and perspectives on Krabi's history and nature. Wat Tham Suea delights with its spiritual atmosphere and views, Khao Khanab Nam intrigues with its prehistoric footprints, and East Railay Viewpoint rewards the effort of climbing with an unforgettable panorama. Together, they form a mosaic that makes it easy to understand why Krabi is such a special place on the map of Thailand.

Our trip back in time would not be complete without a visit to the fabulous islands surrounding Krabi. One of the most distinctive points on the map of the archipelago is Ko Kai, also known as Chicken Island. The name is not coincidental - the island owes it to a distinctive rock formation resembling a chicken's head. Ko Kai is not only a remarkable sight from afar, but also a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The waters around the island abound with colorful fish and coral reefs, offering unforgettable underwater adventures. Although the island itself is small, its charm and surrounding crystal clear waters make it one of the most popular destinations for day trips from Krabi.

Another jewel in Krabi's crown of islands is Hong Island. This island, part of the Than Bok Khorani National Park, is famous for its azure lagoon surrounded by high limestone cliffs. Hong Island is the epitome of a tropical paradise - white sand, turquoise water and lush vegetation create a postcard-like setting. The island offers not only relaxation on the beach, but also the opportunity to explore the hidden lagoon by kayak or while swimming with mask and snorkel. In addition, the island's vantage point allows you to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding islands and the blue sea. Hong Island is a place where you can truly feel like you are on the edge of the world, away from the hustle and bustle of civilization.

Comparing the two islands, you will notice that each has its own unique character. Ko Kai primarily attracts with its distinctive shape and snorkeling opportunities, while Hong Island impresses with its hidden lagoon and pristine beaches. Ko Kai is more easily accessible and often more crowded, especially during peak season. Hong Island, while also popular, offers a bit more tranquility and opportunities to commune with nature in its almost untouched form.

As for infrastructure, it is quite limited on both islands, which adds to their charm of a wild paradise. On Hong Island you'll find basic amenities such as toilets and small food outlets, while Ko Kai is more austere in this regard. It's worth remembering that both islands are part of protected areas, which entails some restrictions for visitors, but at the same time guarantees the preservation of their natural beauty.

Prices for tours to both islands are comparable and depend mainly on the type of boat and the length of the trip. They usually range from 1,000 to 2,000 THB per person for a full-day excursion (as of 2023). However, it is worth keeping in mind that prices can vary depending on the season and are worth verifying with local operators before planning a trip.

Regardless of which island you choose, both offer an unforgettable experience and the opportunity to travel back in time to an era when nature ruled undivided. It is here, on these paradisiacal islets, that we can truly feel the spirit of ancient Krabi and understand why this place has attracted travelers from all over the world for centuries.

Our journey through Krabi's ancient treasures has come to an end, but the memories and impressions will stay with us for a long time. We discovered that Krabi is not only about beaches and entertainment, but more importantly a place with a rich history and extraordinary nature, which together create a magical mix.

We began with a spiritual excursion to Wat Tham Suea, where we were able to admire not only the architecture of the temple, but also the panoramic view of the surrounding area. Climbing 1,260 stairs was a challenge, but the satisfaction and views at the top fully rewarded the effort. The temple is a perfect example of how history and spirituality are intertwined with natural beauty in Krabi.

Next we visited Khao Khanab Nam, the distinctive rock formations that are the gateway to Krabi city. This place gave us a glimpse into the prehistory of the region, discovering caves with cave paintings and remnants of ancient civilizations. A boat trip around these rocks gave us the opportunity to admire the majestic landscape from a different perspective.

East Railay Viewpoint proved to be a real challenge for our fitness, but the view from the top of the Railay Peninsula was absolutely stunning. This place showed us how spectacular Krabi's nature can be, and why it's worth getting tired sometimes to see something really special.

Our trip would not be complete without a visit to the paradise islands. Ko Kai (Chicken Island) delighted us with its unique shape and snorkeling opportunities in crystal clear waters. This is the perfect place for those who want to combine relaxing on the beach with exploring the underwater world.

Hong Island has proven to be a true gem, offering not only beautiful beaches, but also a hidden lagoon and vantage point. It is a place where nature presents itself in all its glory, allowing visitors to feel like explorers of a pristine paradise.

Comparing all these places, it is difficult to choose one best. Each offers something different and unique. Wat Tham Suea and East Railay Viewpoint are ideal for those who enjoy challenges and spectacular views. Khao Khanab Nam is a treat for history and geology lovers. Ko Kai and Hong Island, on the other hand, are a paradise for those seeking a tropical idyll and underwater adventures.

In terms of accessibility, most of these places require some effort or arranging water transportation, which adds to their charm and sense of exclusivity. Admission and tour prices vary, but are generally affordable, especially given the uniqueness of the experience.

All in all, Krabi is a place where there is something for everyone. Whether you are a lover of history, nature, water sports or just looking to relax on a paradise beach, this province has it all. Our journey through Krabi's ancient treasures has shown that this is a destination that can surprise, delight and leave an indelible impression.

It's worth remembering that although Krabi is a popular tourist destination, it still retains much of its natural charm and authenticity. When planning your visit, consider traveling during the off-peak season to fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this unique destination. Regardless of when you decide to visit Krabi, one thing is certain - you're in for an unforgettable adventure that combines fascinating history, breathtaking scenery and extraordinary cultural experiences.