🔄 Updated 21 Jun 2026
Khao Khanab Nam is a pair of limestone peaks about 100 meters high, standing on either side of the mouth of the Krabi River right in front of town. It's such a familiar sight to locals that it became the province's emblem. The appeal here isn't just a pretty photo stop — there's an ancient cave to explore, a big stretch of mangrove forest all around for paddling, and it's close enough to town that you can fit it into half a day.
Getting there — which pier to use
You can only reach Khao Khanab Nam by boat, since the peaks sit in the middle of the water. The most popular departure point is Chao Fah Pier in central Krabi town, right next to the walking street and the riverside market. A longtail boat from the pier to the base of the peaks takes about 15 minutes, and along the way you'll see Krabi town from the water and lines of mangroves on both banks.
- From Krabi town — just walk to Chao Fah Pier; it's the closest and easiest option
- From Ao Nang — take a songthaew or taxi into town (about 20–30 minutes), then catch a boat at Chao Fah Pier
- Book a half-day tour — many operators offer pickup from Ao Nang hotels, including the boat and a guide, often bundled with a mangrove cruise plus the Koh Klang community
About chartering a boat
If you're not on a tour, you can hire a private longtail right at Chao Fah Pier. Prices run roughly 500–800 THB per boat for a round trip to see the peaks and cave (it seats several people, so split between you it's cheap). Agree on the price and timing clearly before you get in, and check that there are enough life jackets for everyone.
Want more out of Krabi? Book tours & activities
Booking online ahead on Klook or GetYourGuide is usually cheaper than the gate and skips the queue. Pick only the experiences you actually want — prices and availability are shown live on each site.
What's inside the cave
Once the boat pulls up to the base of the peaks, stairs and a walkway lead up to a cave carved into the mountain. Inside it's cool, with stalactites and stalagmites. What gets a lot of people excited is the archaeology — human skeletal remains and painted figures on the walls that scholars estimate to be around 3,000–5,000 years old, evidence that people lived here back in prehistoric times. There's also a large skeleton sculpture by an artist on display.
I'll be honest: the cave here isn't as huge or dramatic as some of Thailand's famous ones. The appeal is more about the atmosphere and the history than the spectacle. If you're into archaeology or want the full experience, you'll like it; if you're hoping for a giant cavern full of rock formations, it may feel smaller than you expected.
Mangrove kayaking — the real highlight
Khao Khanab Nam and the Krabi River around it are surrounded by big stretches of mangrove forest. Kayaking your way into those mangroves is the part many people rate as the highlight of the trip, because you can reach corners a longtail can't — quiet enough to hear the water against your paddle and the birds overhead. In places you paddle through mangrove tunnels where the branches arch low over your head.
Krabi's most famous mangrove kayaking spot is Ao Thalen (Ao Thalane), about 35 km west of town. The mangroves here have been ranked among the best kayaking spots anywhere. Routes range from a short loop of about 4 km to a longer one of about 7 km, winding through narrow canyons with rock walls rising on both sides — really beautiful at high tide.
- Kayaking around Khao Khanab Nam / the Krabi River — close to town, paddling through mangroves with views of the twin peaks; good if you're short on time
- Ao Thalen half-day kayak — half-day tours around 500–600 THB/person, including gear and a guide, paddling through canyons and sea caves
- Thalen sunset kayak — around 950 THB/adult, with lovely light and calmer water than midday
About the tides
Mangrove kayaking depends heavily on the water level. At very low tide some routes get hard to paddle, or you can't make it through the sea caves at all. Good tours schedule their trips to line up with high tide, so it's worth asking the operator about the tide timetable before you book — you'll get a much fuller experience.
Scenic boat cruise + Koh Klang community
Another popular option is a relaxed boat cruise around Khao Khanab Nam with no paddling required. Many tours pair it with a stop at the Koh Klang community (Ban Koh Klang), a small island in the middle of the river across from town. There are local activities like batik fabric making, learning about the fishing way of life, and eating southern Thai home cooking. It's a way of traveling that lets you see real Krabi life rather than just passing through for a photo.
Best time to go
The best season is November to April — clear skies and calm water, great for both boating and kayaking. The rainy season (May to October) is still doable, but you'll need to check the weather day by day, since rain and rough wind can keep the boats from going out. As for the time of day, early morning and late afternoon have softer sun and prettier light than midday.
- Morning (8:00–10:00) — cooler air, fewer people, usually calm water
- Late afternoon to evening — beautiful light for photos and for the sunset kayak
- Avoid midday — harsh sun, hot, and the peaks' shadow leaves you shooting into the light
Before you go
- Wear shoes you don't mind getting wet — you'll be boarding boats and walking on rock in places
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and drinking water, especially if you're going to kayak
- Keep your life jacket on the whole time you're on the boat or kayak — confirm the operator provides them
- Stash your phone or camera in a dry bag, since you can get splashed easily while paddling
- Agree on the price and timing with the boat owner before you set off, to avoid misunderstandings later
The town's signature photo spot
If you want a nice shot of Khao Khanab Nam without getting on a boat, take an evening stroll around Chao Fah Pier and the riverside embankment in front of town. You'll see the two peaks as a backdrop with golden light — a free photo spot where locals like to come and sit.
Plan your whole Krabi trip — where to stay, eat and explore, all in one place
See the Krabi travel guide →