Railay: cliffs, climbing and Phra Nang cave
A peninsula reachable only by boat, framed by limestone cliffs.
- Area
- Phang Nga & Krabi
- Start from
- Phuket via Ao Nang
- Distance
- about 2–3 hours
- Time needed
- 1–3 days
- Best season
- November – April
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Transport
- Ferry or road + longtail
- Tickets & rules
- None
Why go
Railay is a world-famous climbing destination with dramatic cliffs.
Phra Nang beach is one of the most beautiful in Thailand.
The viewpoint and lagoon hike is adventurous.
Tonsai beach next door is a backpacker climbing hub.
Railay East has mangroves; Railay West has sunsets.
The four beaches of the peninsula each have their own personality. Railay West is a postcard of white sand and longtails; Railay East is a mangrove shore with bars and climbing shops; Phra Nang is framed by cliffs and a cave; and Tonsai, around the corner, is a relaxed climbers' hangout.
Even if you don't climb, watching climbers on the overhanging walls is entertaining, and beginner courses are offered daily by experienced local guides.
The story
Phra Nang cave honours a princess spirit; fishermen leave wooden offerings.
Climbing began in the 1980s.
Climbers transformed Railay into a world destination.
The Princess cave offerings are a local tradition.
Phra Nang cave is dedicated to a princess spirit believed to protect fishermen, and the offerings left there are fertility symbols carved from wood. Local fishermen still stop to pay respect before heading out to sea.
In the 1980s climbers discovered the cliffs and started bolting routes. Today Railay is one of the most famous sport-climbing destinations in Asia, with hundreds of routes.
Getting there
Ferry from Phuket to Ao Nang, longtail to Railay.
Longtails from Ao Nang take 15 minutes.
A suggested plan
- Day 1Arrive, Phra Nang beach.
- Day 2Climbing lesson.
- Day 3Return.
- OptionalKayak to nearby islands.
- Day 2 afternoonHike to the Railay viewpoint and, if you're fit and the trail is dry, down to the hidden lagoon. It involves ropes and mud.
Where to stay
Railay resorts.
Good to know
- Climb with certified guides.
- Low tide walks.
- Bring cash; ATMs are limited.
- Wear good shoes for the lagoon trail.
- Stay at least one night; day-trippers miss the best light.
- Snorkel at Phra Nang's rocks at high tide.
- Lagoon trail is steep and muddy.
- Last boats at sunset.
- High tide affects boat landings.