Tharnboke Koranee: A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers in Krabi, Thailand

Nestled between the provinces of Krabi and Phang Nga in southern Thailand, Tharnboke Koranee National Park is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience off the beaten tourist path. Just an hour’s drive from the busy centers of Krabi Town or Ao Nang, the park offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore lush rainforests, karst limestone cliffs, emerald pools, sacred shrines, and unique biodiversity—all within a manageable and welcoming space.

Our visit began under heavy clouds, with intermittent rain hinting at a true rainforest adventure. Despite the weather, spirits were high as our group set off from Krabi with our guide, Khun Ying, a bright and enthusiastic young Thai woman with excellent English and a gift for storytelling. As the minivan carved its way through the winding roads, we caught glimpses of Krabi’s famous karst landscape—limestone peaks wrapped in thick jungle mist—setting the tone for the natural wonders ahead.

Established in 1998, Tharnboke Koranee National Park covers 104 square kilometers, including both land and sea. Though only 40 square kilometers are terrestrial, the park packs a remarkable diversity into its compact footprint. It was named after the central Sa Than Bok Khoranee, a lotus-shaped lake whose waters feed the many pools, waterfalls, and streams that wind through the forest. These waters, colored in stunning shades of emerald green, flow swiftly and copiously, creating a calming soundtrack throughout the park.

Upon arrival, we followed a well-maintained concrete path into the heart of the forest. Bridges crisscrossed over bubbling streams, while short detours led to hidden corners filled with natural beauty. Towering trees, many labeled with both their Thai and Latin botanical names—including Wild Gardenia, Asoka, and Apocynaceae—lined the trails, reaching high above the limestone walls shaped over millennia by water and erosion. Despite the steady rain, the thick canopy provided a natural shield, and the vibrant shades of green came alive in the filtered light.

Though several natural pools looked tempting, swimming is generally discouraged due to fast currents and swirling waters. Warning signs remind visitors of the danger—this is, after all, untamed nature. Still, the area is perfect for hiking, photography, and quiet contemplation. I found myself constantly pausing to observe tiny water spiders skating across calm pools, brilliantly colored butterflies flitting between branches, and spiders with yellow-and-red patterned bodies weaving resilient webs. The park’s circular trail system made it easy to explore without fear of getting lost, offering multiple route options with clear directional signage.

One particularly unique stop was the San Tho Chong–Tho Yuan shrine, a small but vibrant Chinese temple nestled inside a wooden pagoda along the main path. Adorned with flags, porcelain tigers, incense sticks, and copper candle holders, the shrine is visited by Thai women seeking fertility. Our guide explained that the site, believed to be imbued with spiritual energy from the fertile surrounding forest, often receives offerings like chicken, fruit, and soft drinks from hopeful visitors.

Further along the trail, a steep cement staircase led us to another sacred site: Tam Roi Phraphuthabaht Chamrong, home to a beautifully crafted copper Buddha footprint measuring around one meter long and 40 centimeters wide. Surrounded by floral offerings and candles, the footprint rests near a hidden Buddha statue inside a narrow rock crevice. We squeezed through the 50cm-wide opening and looked up as a shaft of sunlight pierced through a 15-meter-tall crack above, dramatically illuminating the stone figure. It was a quiet, humbling moment of reflection in the heart of the forest.

As we returned to the visitor center, a warm wind began to blow through the towering trees, rustling their giant leaves. Thick roots—twisting, creeping, and victorious—emerged through cracks in the cement paths, a reminder that here, nature reclaims everything. There is also a shaded camping ground, often used by local students, where educational trips foster respect and awareness for Thailand’s natural environment.

Our guide ended the tour with a note on the park’s conservation efforts, particularly regarding the Krabi-endemic Lady’s Slipper Orchid, protected under the patronage of the Thai Royal Family. These ongoing efforts underscore the park’s importance not just as a destination but as a living ecosystem worthy of respect and care.

Whether you’re a passionate hiker, a plant enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply someone who loves unspoiled nature, Tharnboke Koranee National Park is a deeply rewarding place to visit. Quiet, authentic, and rich with hidden gems, it offers an unforgettable escape into the wild heart of southern Thailand.