About the journey from Koh Lanta to Krabi
Leaving the natural beauty of Koh Lanta to return to the "real world" might feel tough, but a good way to ease yourself back in is to head to Krabi.
As a gateway to many breathtaking islands and beaches, the treasures found in the city of Krabi can easily be overlooked. But don't make that same mistake! Don't skip this opportunity to explore some incredible sights before island hopping.
The 87.6km (54.4 miles) journey between Koh Lanta and Krabi takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the mode of transportation.
The most affordable way to travel between Koh Lanta and Koh Krabi is by using a shared minivan.
If you prefer to travel on your own, private cars are available as well.
Ocean lovers might consider the tourist ferry, which travels from the Saladan Pier Koh Lanta to the Nopparat Thara Pier.
To get the best deal, consider going with a shared minivan. They are safe and dependable but will require that you go with a set schedule.
Four fascinating things to do in Krabi
Here are some great things to see while in Krabi:
Visit a temple…or two — While there are many Buddhist temples in Thailand, there are two in Krabi worth a visit. Wat Tham Seua (Tiger Temple) is perched atop a mountain with 1237 steps to the summit, offering stunning views of the jungle valley below.
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking because the stairs can be slippery. It is not for the faint of heart — reaching the top can take about 35 minutes! Wat Kaew Ko Wararum is one of the largest temples in Krabi and is well known because of its white stone and dragon sculptures. It is in the heart of Krabi city, on Maharaj Street.
Island hopping— Ao Nang Beach is 18 km (11 miles) from Krabi City. You can get there in 30 minutes with a songthaew (around $1.50) or in 15 minutes with a taxi (around $8). From Ao Nang, reserving a longtail boat to hop to the islands off the coast is easy. Prices start at $40 and can vary depending on length, privacy, and if a meal is offered.
Soak up the art culture — Take a break from the sand and the sun to experience the artistic culture of local artists at the Andaman Cultural Center. This center has three distinct features: an Art Museum (gallery), an Art Workshop area, and a Bead Museum.
Admission to the center is free. The air conditioning is great for a respite from the heat, and visitors can learn a lot from the English-speaking staff.
Shop 'til you drop — The daily Krabi Market on Maharaj Street is a local market with the cheapest and yummiest street food. But the market you don't want to miss is the Krabi Night Market. Buy souvenirs, taste scrumptious treats and experience dance and music performances.
The night market is held Friday-Sunday nights at Maharaj 8 Street near the Chao Fah pier.
How to get from Koh Lanta to Krabi
There are three ways to travel from Koh Lanta to Krabi: shared or private minivan, private car, or bus + ferry.
By minivan (shared or private)
Using a shared minivan is typically the cheapest way to travel through the province of Krabi.
It is comfortable, convenient, and affordable, but it involves traveling with other people in a small space. The trip can be a bit longer, between 2.5 to 4 hours. The standard minivan has A/C, and prices start at around $8 per person.
The price includes one piece of luggage weighing 20 kg (44 pounds) and one piece of hand luggage like a purse or a computer bag. If you have any additional luggage, it will cost about $5 per extra bag.
When booking, pay attention to the given departure and destination options — they vary from hotels to airports to bus stations and offices.
When traveling in a group, you may wish to reserve a private minivan. These typically accommodate eight passengers and cost around $40 per person.
By private car
Hiring a private car is more expensive but provides the most flexibility. It allows for two passengers, which costs around $35 per person.
You can schedule your departure time and location to fit your schedule with great flexibility, which could be beneficial. The trip takes about three and a half hours.
Private cars have AC and allow for one piece of luggage per person.
By private bus + ferry
If you have a big group of people (up to nine) and need luggage space, another travel option is a large van.
The departure time and location is flexible, but the earliest departure time is 6:00 a.m., and the latest is 18:00 p.m. This option can involve either a ride in a van that crosses with the ferry or a drop off at the ferry and a pick up by van after the ferry ride.
Costs run between $40-45 per person.
What to expect from the journey from Koh Lanta to Krabi
The journey from Koh Lanta to Krabi usually takes 2-4 hours. This depends on the mode of transportation.
By land, the journey takes you on Highway 4, where you'll pass through small towns and picturesque scenery like lush greenery, banyan trees, and rubber plantations.
The drivers are professional and helpful.
Usually, they are okay with stopping for restroom breaks or buying snacks and drinks.
When is the best time to visit Krabi?
The best months to visit Krabi are between December and February. December tends to be the coolest month, with lows around 23°C (73°F) and highs around 31°C (88°F). The driest month tends to be February.
April is dry but tends to be the hottest month, which has some drawbacks.
However, the worst time to visit is the rainy months of August-October because it can make a beach vacation a real bummer. You may get some good savings because it's the low season, but you really can't enjoy the beauty of your trip.
How many days should you spend in Krabi?
Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in the town of Krabi. Be sure it's over a weekend so you can enjoy the weekend night market.
If you choose to do island or national park excursions from Krabi, you'll probably want to extend your visit.
Where to visit after Krabi?
If your trip doesn't end in Krabi, consider switching up the beach life for the northern city of Chiang Mai. While it is 562 miles (905 km) away, it will provide a completely different Thai experience.
