Is Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) (Thailand) Worth Visiting?
Phra Nang Cave, also known as Princess Cave, is absolutely worth visiting! It's all about the stunning natural beauty, from the towering limestone cliffs to the pristine sands of Phra Nang Beach. The cave itself, adorned with offerings, adds a unique cultural element to this already picturesque location.
Its popularity stems from its breathtaking scenery and the sense of adventure it offers. The cave and beach are a major tourist draw, offering a blend of relaxation, exploration, and a touch of local tradition that makes it a must-see destination in Krabi.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) (Thailand)
Planning your trip to Phra Nang Cave? Knowing the best time to visit will ensure you make the most of your experience. Here's a quick guide to help you plan your visit.
- Opening Hours: Phra Nang Cave is accessible 24/7, as it's a natural site. However, boat services and vendors typically operate from around 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to March. The weather is sunny and the sea is calm, perfect for boat trips and swimming.
- Best Time to See: To avoid the crowds, aim to arrive early in the morning (before 10:00 AM) or later in the afternoon (after 3:00 PM).
- Best Time to Go: Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. Avoid visiting during Thai public holidays, as the beach can get very crowded.
- Estimated Visit Duration: Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the cave, relax on the beach, and enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Location Details about Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) (Thailand)
Want to know where Phra Nang Cave is located? This stunning cave is nestled on the Railay Peninsula, offering a secluded paradise. Here's what you need to know about its location.
- Location: Phra Nang Cave is located on Phra Nang Beach, Railay Peninsula, Krabi, Thailand.
- Address: Railay Beach, Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81180, Thailand
- Parking Availability: There is no direct road access to Railay Peninsula. You'll need to take a longtail boat from Ao Nang, Krabi Town, or Ao Nam Mao. Parking is available at these departure points.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Unfortunately, due to the boat access and sandy terrain, Phra Nang Cave is not easily wheelchair accessible.
How Much to Enter / Visit Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) (Thailand)
Curious about the cost of visiting Phra Nang Cave? The good news is that visiting the cave itself is free! However, there are costs associated with getting there and enjoying the beach.
- Tickets: There is no entrance fee to visit Phra Nang Cave.
- Price: The main cost is the longtail boat ride to Railay Beach, which typically costs around 100-150 THB per person each way from Ao Nang.
- Tour: Guided tours to Railay Beach and Phra Nang Cave are available from various tour operators in Ao Nang. Prices vary depending on the itinerary and inclusions.
- Where to Buy: Boat tickets can be purchased directly at the piers in Ao Nang, Krabi Town, or Ao Nam Mao. Tours can be booked online or through local travel agencies.
How To Go to Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) (Thailand)
Getting to Phra Nang Cave requires a bit of planning, as it's only accessible by boat. Here's a breakdown of how to get there.
- How to go to: The only way to reach Phra Nang Cave is by boat.
- Longtail Boat from Ao Nang: The most common route is to take a longtail boat from Ao Nang Beach. Boats depart regularly throughout the day, and the journey takes around 15-20 minutes.
- Longtail Boat from Krabi Town: You can also take a longtail boat from Krabi Town, but the journey is longer (around 45 minutes) and may be less frequent.
- Longtail Boat from Ao Nam Mao: Another option is to take a longtail boat from Ao Nam Mao, which is a quieter departure point.
- Ride Hailing: Use ride hailing to get to Ao Nang pier, Krabi Town pier, or Ao Nam Mao pier.
- Public Transport Tips: Songthaews (local buses) run between Krabi Town and Ao Nang, providing an affordable way to reach the pier.
Things To Do in or near the Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave)
Phra Nang Cave and its surroundings offer a wealth of activities for every type of traveller. From exploring the cave itself to relaxing on pristine beaches, there's something for everyone. Here's a list of things to do in and around Phra Nang Cave.
- Activities in Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave):
- Explore Phra Nang Cave: Discover the unique offerings and learn about the local legends associated with the Princess Cave.
- Relax on Phra Nang Beach: Soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
- Rock Climbing: Railay is a world-renowned rock climbing destination, with routes for all skill levels.
- Visit Princess Lagoon (Sa Phra Nang): Hike through the jungle to reach this hidden lagoon, a beautiful spot for a swim.
- Enjoy a Thai Massage: Indulge in a relaxing Thai massage on the beach.
- Activities nearby Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave):
- Explore Railay Beach: Discover the other beaches on Railay Peninsula, such as Railay West and Tonsai Beach.
- Take a Boat Trip to the Islands: Visit nearby islands like Chicken Island, Poda Island, and Hong Island.
- Snorkelling and Diving: Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life around the islands.
- Kayaking: Paddle through the mangroves and explore the coastline.
- Visit the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea): Climb the 1,237 steps to reach the summit and enjoy panoramic views of Krabi.
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Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) Thailand
Since Phra Nang Cave is located on Railay Peninsula and is only accessible by boat, there are no MRT stations or bus stops directly nearby. The closest transport hubs are located on the mainland in Ao Nang and Krabi Town. Here's some information about transport options on the mainland.
- Nearby MRT Station: There are no MRT stations in Krabi.
- Nearby Bus Station: Krabi Bus Terminal is located in Krabi Town, approximately 30-45 minutes by car or songthaew from Ao Nang. From the bus terminal, you can take a songthaew or taxi to Ao Nang pier to catch a boat to Railay Beach.
- Bus Stops Nearby: Songthaews (local buses) operate along the main road in Ao Nang, connecting Ao Nang Beach with Krabi Town. You can catch a songthaew to Ao Nang pier.
Tips To Go to Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) (Thailand) and Safety Tips
Planning a safe and enjoyable trip to Phra Nang Cave is essential. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit.
- What to Bring:
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the strong tropical sun.
- Hat and Sunglasses: Shield yourself from the sun's glare.
- Swimsuit: Don't forget your swimwear for a refreshing dip in the sea.
- Towel: A quick-drying towel is essential for drying off after swimming.
- Water Shoes: Protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral.
- Insect Repellent: Keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay.
- Cash: Many vendors on Railay Beach do not accept credit cards.
- Camera: Capture the stunning scenery and memorable moments.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Be Aware of Tides: Check the tide times before swimming, as currents can be strong.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
- Watch Out for Monkeys: Monkeys can be mischievous and may try to steal food or belongings.
- Protect Your Valuables: Keep your valuables safe and secure.
- Use Reputable Boat Operators: Choose licensed and insured boat operators for your safety.
- Be Respectful of Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting the cave and other religious sites.
Best Hotel Area in Thailand
Choosing the right area to stay in Thailand can significantly enhance your travel experience. Each neighbourhood offers a unique atmosphere and caters to different preferences. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Thailand.
- Best Area to Stay in Thailand:
- Bangkok (Sukhumvit): Ideal for first-time visitors, shoppers, and those seeking nightlife and convenient access to transportation.
- Chiang Mai (Old City): Perfect for culture enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxed atmosphere.
- Phuket (Patong Beach): Great for party-goers, beach lovers, and those seeking a vibrant atmosphere.
- Krabi (Ao Nang): Suitable for families, couples, and those seeking a balance of relaxation and activities.
- Koh Samui (Chaweng Beach): Ideal for those seeking a mix of luxury, nightlife, and beautiful beaches.
Where to Eat Inside or near Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) (Thailand)
While there aren't many formal restaurants directly inside Phra Nang Cave, you'll find plenty of delicious options on Phra Nang Beach and nearby Ao Nang. Here's a taste of what you can expect.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- The Grotto (Rayavadee Resort): A unique dining experience set within a limestone cave on Phra Nang Beach, offering stunning views and delicious food.
- Railay Village Restaurant: Located in Railay Village, this restaurant offers a wide range of Thai and international dishes.
- Ao Nang Boat Noodle: Located in Ao Nang, this restaurant offers a wide range of Thai dishes.
- Local Street Food:
- Pad Thai: A classic Thai noodle dish with shrimp, tofu, and peanuts.
- Mango Sticky Rice: A sweet and satisfying dessert made with sticky rice, fresh mango, and coconut milk.
- Grilled Seafood: Freshly grilled seafood, such as prawns, squid, and fish, is readily available from street vendors.
Shopping Places near Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) (Mueang Krabi District)
While Railay Beach itself doesn't have large shopping malls, you can find a variety of shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and beach essentials. For a wider selection, head to nearby Ao Nang or Krabi Town. Here are some shopping options in the Mueang Krabi District.
- Shopping Street: Ao Nang Walking Street is a vibrant night market offering a variety of souvenirs, clothing, handicrafts, and street food.
- Shopping Mall Nearby: Vogue Shopping Center in Krabi Town is a department store offering a range of clothing, cosmetics, and household goods.
- Outlet Mall Nearby: Krabi Town has local markets where you can find affordable clothing and souvenirs.
Best Hotels to Stay near Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave) (Thailand)
Finding the perfect place to stay near Phra Nang Cave is key to enjoying your trip. While there are no hotels directly inside the cave (obviously!), here are some excellent options on Railay Beach and in nearby Ao Nang.
- Rayavadee is a luxurious resort located on the edge of Railay Beach, offering stunning views and world-class amenities.
- Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi is situated in a secluded bay accessible by boat, offering a tranquil escape.
- Anantara Ao Nang Krabi Resort offers a stylish and comfortable stay with easy access to Ao Nang Beach and its attractions.
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Hotels with Swimming Pools near Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave)
A swimming pool can be a welcome addition to your Thailand holiday, providing a refreshing escape from the heat. Here are some hotels near Phra Nang Cave that offer fantastic swimming pools.
- Rayavadee boasts a stunning infinity pool overlooking Phra Nang Beach.
- Centara Grand Beach Resort & Villas Krabi features multiple swimming pools, including a beachfront pool and a kids' pool.
- Anantara Ao Nang Krabi Resort offers a large swimming pool with a swim-up bar.
Hotels with Parking near Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave)
If you're planning to rent a car during your stay in Krabi, it's important to choose a hotel with parking facilities. Since Railay Beach is only accessible by boat, you'll need to park your car on the mainland. Here are some hotels in Ao Nang that offer parking.
- Anantara Ao Nang Krabi Resort provides complimentary parking for guests.
- Holiday Inn Resort Krabi Ao Nang Beach offers ample parking space.
- Aonang Villa Resort has parking available for guests.
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Best Hotels near Thailand Airport
For travellers with early morning flights or late-night arrivals, staying near the airport can be a lifesaver. Here are some of the best hotels near Thailand's major airports.
Average Room Rate hotels near Phra Nang Cave (Princess Cave)
Hotel prices near Phra Nang Cave can vary depending on the season, hotel category, and availability. It's always a good idea to check Traveloka for the latest prices and deals. You can often find great hotel discounts and promos, especially during the off-season.
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Conclusion
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