Krabi: Emerald Pool, Hot Springs & Tiger Cave Temple Small Group

Summary

Swim in emerald waters hike rainforest trails and climb tiger cave temple stairs

You’ll swim in Krabi’s warm Emerald Pool surrounded by rainforest, soak in natural hot springs with volcanic minerals, and climb Tiger Cave Temple’s legendary staircase for panoramic views of limestone cliffs and jungle below. A local guide keeps things relaxed and real—expect laughter, small group energy, and moments that stick with you long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when we pulled up near the forest in Krabi — just that everyone seemed a bit sleepy still, clutching water bottles. Our guide, Pim, handed out another round (she kept count better than any of us) and grinned like she’d seen this all before. The air smelled green, if that makes sense — damp leaves, something sweet underneath, maybe from the flowers I kept stepping over. The walk to the Emerald Pool was easy enough but my shirt stuck to my back by the time we reached it. The pool itself looked almost fake, so clear and that weirdly perfect jade color. We all hesitated before jumping in; it’s warmer than you think, not cold at all. I floated on my back for a minute and tried not to think about emails or anything else.

Pim led us further to the Blue Lagoon — she said not to swim there (“quicksand!” she warned, half-laughing), so we just stood around taking photos and watching dragonflies hover above the water. There was this odd quiet; even the birds seemed hushed for a second. Lunch after was simple — rice, chicken, something spicy I still can’t name — but honestly tasted great after swimming. I tried asking for more chili like Pim did but immediately regretted it (she laughed at me).

The hot springs were next. It’s funny how sitting in hot water outside feels different than a bath at home — there’s this mineral smell and you can hear the creek bubbling somewhere behind you. My skin felt slippery from all the minerals but I didn’t mind. There were only a few other people around; one old man nodded at me as if we were both in on some secret.

Then came Tiger Cave Temple. I thought 1,260 stairs sounded bad on paper but halfway up I realized it’s…well, worse than it sounds? Some steps are so tall you have to use your hands too. But everyone encouraged each other — strangers sharing water or just groaning together at each rest stop. At the top: wind on your face, gold Buddha gleaming against the sky, limestone cliffs stretching forever. I took a photo but honestly it doesn’t do it justice; you feel small up there in a good way. On the way down my legs shook so much I nearly missed a step (don’t tell my mom). Still thinking about that view now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Emerald Pool, Hot Springs, and Temple

• Travel from Ao Nang to Emerald Pool
• Hike through forest to Emerald Pool
• Swim in Emerald Pool
• View Blue Lagoon (no swimming)
• Lunch at local restaurant (own expense)
• Travel to hot springs area
• Relax in natural hot springs
• Travel to Tiger Cave Temple
• Climb 1260 stairs to temple top
• Enjoy views from Tiger Cave Temple
• Return travel to Ao Nang

Top questions

How many stairs are there at Tiger Cave Temple?

There are 1,260 stairs to reach the top of Tiger Cave Temple.

Can you swim in both Emerald Pool and Blue Lagoon?

You can swim in Emerald Pool but not in Blue Lagoon due to quicksand and temperature changes.

Is lunch included on this Krabi day trip?

No, lunch is not included—you’ll stop at a local restaurant where you can buy your own meal.

What is the maximum group size for this tour?

The maximum number of participants per group is 10 persons.

Are entry fees included in the price?

No, national park and hot springs fees are not included—they must be paid in cash onsite.

Is hotel pickup provided?

Yes, pickup from Ao Nang hotels is included with your booking.

How long does it take to get from Ao Nang to these attractions?

The tour includes travel time between Ao Nang and each attraction; exact times may vary depending on traffic.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to physical activity involved.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Ao Nang hotels by air-conditioned vehicle and guidance throughout from an English-speaking local guide who knows every shortcut through the jungle trails; bottled drinking water is provided along the way so you don’t have to worry about staying hydrated between swims or climbs.