Thailand: Emerald Pool & Hot Springs - Krabi
Taken on old camera phone.
Located in the middle of Khoa Phra-Bang Wildlife Sanctuary, is a beautiful emerald pool with clear water, rich in colour; a greenish hue that changes with the temperature. The Thai name for the pool is Sa Morakot.
There are two routes you can take when you enter the Sanctuary, either a short trail that leads directly to the pool, or, the more scenic trail. You may have read else where, the longer route is the nicest on your way in, it's about a 1400 km trek through the rain forest, the nature trail. Khoa Phra is home to many rare birds, this makes it an ideal excursion for wildlife lovers and bird watchers.
The emerald pool is a popular tourist destination in Krabi, to avoid the crowds, get there before it opens, this way you’ll have the opportunity to take pretty pictures without a ton of tourists in the background; I made the mistake of going when it was super busy, you can't tell from the photo of me *wink* (my Photoshop skills aren't too shabby ey). Do not go during peak hours, its way too packed and you’ll probably be disappointed.
Fresh coconuts and other refreshments are for sale at the many stalls positioned before you get to the entrance.
Further along past the Emerald Pool is the Blue Lagoon. Unfortunately I didn't get to see this as it was closed, its looks very pretty from the pictures but you are not allowed to swim in it. Don’t chance breaking the rules, they say the pool is surrounded by quick sand and is boiling; do not risk your life for a selfie.
Useful Information
Emerald Pool:
Opening times: 8:30am - dark
Bring a towel and swim wear, water shoes are also recommenced
The rocks are very slippery
Food and drinks are available before the entrance
Entry fee for Adults- 200 Thai Bahts, Children- 100 Thai Baht
Best Time to go between 8:30am-10:00am or after 5:00pm till close (closes at dark)
10 - 30 Baht for parking
Hot Springs - Krabi
About a 15-minute drive from the Emerald Pool, you’ll find the Hot Springs Waterfall, called Namtok Ron Khlong Thom, in Thai.
The water feeding the Hot Springs come from volcanic water located below, the temperature can be between 30-50 degrees (depending on the time of year). Dotted around are warning signs advising visitors not to spend more than 15-20minutes at a time in the tubs. The hot weather combined with the Hot Springs could be a recipe for disaster if you’re not careful. A much cooler river runs below the Hot Springs, giving you opportunity to cool down for a while before soaking again.
Note: The natural, nature built hot tubs are small, like the Emerald Pool, I would highly recommend you get there at opening or about an hour before closing. You may not be able to find a spot in any of the tubs if you go when then crowds are about.
I can't lie to you, I absolutely loved the Hot Springs, I found a smooth area to relax in and enjoyed the warmth and tranquility. I was lucky enough to reach the Springs at a quiet time, all the tour groups had gone so there were just a few of us enjoying the peace and quiet.
Taken on old camera phone.
Useful Information
Hot Springs:
Opening times: 7:00am-6:00pm
Bring a large bottle of water per person to avoid dehydration
Best Time to go between 7:00am-9:30am or 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Bring a towel and swim wear, water shoes are also recommenced
Entry fee for Adults- 90 Thai Baht, Children- 45 Thai Baht (locals pay just 20 Thai Baht)
Food and drinks are available before the entrance
10 Baht for Parking
Have you been to the Emerald Pool or the Hot Springs? Would love to know your experiences.
Comment below.