If you want to go for a couple hour hike up a mountain trail and see amazing views from 500 vertical meters (1,500+ feet) you should climb this mountain!
TheThe trail is well-marked and it’s not easy to get lost. At the finish is the most amazing view maybe you’ve ever seen in your life. Krabi has a lot of things to do and this is one of the best if you’re looking for some physical activity and climbing without putting your life at risk.
TheThe mountain stream that runs down the length of the mountain, forming a waterfall at one point, passes by the start of the trail here at the bottom of the mountain near the parking area. Thai children are often found swimming here on hot days as the water is clean and quite cool.
The route:
There’s no need for a guide for this trek as it’s a clearly marked trail right the way to the top and hard to get lost.
TheThe National Park opens at 8am and you’ll need to sign yourself in with the park wardens at the small booth near the entrance. The trail starts just after the barrier signalling the entrance to the park.
TheThe first 1km or so is a wide leafy path between the trees that climbs gradually. It then starts to get quite steep and the next 1.5km continues upwards, sometimes up steep steps made by tree roots. It’s pretty sweaty work but thankfully you’re pretty much always in the shade of the trees so don’t also have to deal with the sun.
TheAfter around 2.5km you reach the first viewpoint and have a great view out over the Krabi province. From here the trail is generally a bit flatter with just a couple of short steep sections as you work your way higher. You’ll come to a junction that points to a waterfall on your right and the path to the peak continues on your left.
The path is well worn and easy to follow. It’s quite warm most days after noon so I’d suggest you go around 9 a.m. You won’t likely see too many hikers in the morning, but around lunchtime you might see ten or more as this becomes a more popular trail among those looking to explore some of the lesser known attractions in Krabi, Thailand.
How to get there:
The trail starts about 13km from Ao Nang at the entrance to the national park, just past the small resort of Tubkaak. It’s easy to get taxis here from Ao Nang or I hired a scooter for the day for 200 THB (approx. £5) which gave me the flexibility to stop off places on the way back.
Time required: 3-4 hours, depending how long you spend at the top
Cost: Free – no guide required but as it’s in a National Park the park wardens do ask for a tip
Fitness Level: 3
What to take/wear: trainers, water, camera, snacks
Cautions: It’s a safe trail, be alert for small roots sticking up that will catch your foot occasionally.
Facilities: At the base of the trail are wash basins and restrooms. There is a small concrete bench area next to the stream at the bottom. Once you start the hike up the mountain there are no facilities, but there are sitting benches in a couple spots.
Here are some reviews of the adventurers who experience hiking in Tab Kak Hang Nak Hill Nature Trail
