Krabi’s Twin Mountains: Khao Khanap Nam

Forming a dramatic backdrop to the town of Krabi, the twin limestone mountains known as Khao Khanap Nam straddle the Krabi River. Approximately 100 metres high, the mountains form one of the most distinctive landmarks in southern Thailand.

The riverside walkway in Krabi Town provides fine views of the twin peaks, but for a close-up inspection visitors can take a longtail boat from the town’s Chao Fa pier (close to the large sculpture of the black crab). The boat will drop you off at a set of stairs which lead you into the caves under the mountains. The caves were once home to ancient settlements and exhibits have been set up to explain some of the archeological finds and cave paintings that have been discovered here. You’ll also be able to see stalactites and stalagmites that have formed inside the caves.

The Krabi River (Maenam Krabi) is noted as being the shortest river in Thailand at just 5 kilometres long. The river runs into the Krabi estuary (Paknam Krabi) on the way to the Andaman Sea.

The journey along the river from Krabi Town to Khao Khanap Nam takes 15 minutes. Boats can be hired for approximately 400 to 500 Baht per hour with a trip to Khao Khanap Nam often combined with a tour of the mangrove forests and a nearby fishing village (Koh Klang).