KRABI's Hidden 'Twin-Jewels'

Normally when someone talks about Krabi (Thailand), he or she would normally mention the beautiful beaches of Ao Nang, the exotic nearby islands or even the serene and laid-back town of Krabi itself.

Not many would speak of the rarely-talked about 'twin-jewels' of Krabi: the natural hot spring & the emerald pool of Klong Thom. And even rarer to hear of anyone who rides a bicycle to go those two places. And yet, I did exactly just that!

I started my 'little-adventure' by taking a 'mini-bus' from Krabi town to the Krabi Bus Terminal. A short trip of about 15 minutes (for 30 Bhat). From there, I took a bus that was destined to go to Trang. About 45 minutes later I got down at a small town called Nam Phrong. The bus ride-

50 Bhat.

It was from this small town that I cycled, 10 km altogether, all the way to .... a junction that would lead me to the Emerald Pool! And from the junction, that would be another 7 km of cycling over hills & slopes!!! So, I decided to leave my bicycle at a small shop by the junction and then looked for, found and paid a local boy to take me to the pool on his motorbike! Cost me another 50 Bhat:)

And as the pool itself... well... just look at these pictures. Also please try to watch the short videos. Upon reaching the pool... I was ... actually... hmmm... speechless, mesmerised! The Emerald Pool was truly a 'hidden jewel' of Krabi. Oh yes, the entrance fee to this 'Eden of Krabi' is only for 20 Bhat!

A young couple from Haadyai were kind enough to gave me a lift in their car on the way out and dropped me at the shop. I collected my bike and started to ride to the other pool- the natural hot spring pool. It was for another 8 km from the junction.

The hot-spring was really some sort of a nature's own hot-tub jacuzzis! The pleasantly-hot water actually comes from thermal springs originating underground.

The water flows out and fills the naturally, hollowed-out 'bath-tubs' in the smooth stone.

By simply lazing in the hot water up to my chin, watching the clouds go by, enjoying the green and shady trees surrounding the pool... it had certainly made me feel that I had truly found the 'hidden-jewel' of Krabi!

And then... the ride back to Nam Phrong town! 10 km to go, all over again. Now... why in the world did I choose to cycle instead of joining a 'package-tour' like everybody else?