Emerald Pool Krabi: Entry Fee, Things to Do, Best Time & How to Reach

Nestled deep inside the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve in Krabi, Emerald Pool is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Thailand. It is also known as the Sa Morakot. Unlike crowded Ao Nang and Railay, this place will give you a tranquil escape. This freshwater gem shimmers with a bright turquoise colour created by mineral deposits, which is the result of mineral deposits left by thermal streams flowing over limestone-rich terrain for centuries. With a depth of 1.2 to 1.8 metres, this pool is ideal for swimming. Proximity to the thermal source makes it a natural warm-water spa surrounded by dense tropical rainforest. 

Reaching the pool is also an adventure. You need to hike on a 1.4 km boardwalk trail that winds through the dense, dripping rainforest, small mineral ponds and an astonishing variety of tropical flora and fauna. The reserve is also home to two other stunning bodies of water, the Crystal Pool (Sra Kaew) and the mysterious Blue Pool. If you want a quiet and relaxing experience, this place deserves a spot on your Krabi tour packages. 

The Emerald Pool earns its reputation as one of Krabi's top mainland attractions for several compelling reasons. Here are the highlights that set it apart:

• Extraordinary Colour: The iconic turquoise-green hue is entirely natural, created by mineral deposits from the thermal springs. 
• Pristine Rainforest: The trail to the pool runs through Thung Teao Forest, a remarkably intact lowland rainforest ecosystem teeming with wildlife. 
• Swimming: Unlike its neighbouring pools, you can swim in the Emerald Pool and enjoy a refreshing dip in naturally mineral-rich waters. 
• The Blue Pool: Just 600 metres further, the Blue Pool stuns visitors with an intense sapphire colour unlike anywhere else in Thailand. 
• Photographer's Paradise: Sunlight filtering through the jungle canopy and the pool's vivid colour make it one of the most photogenic spots in all of Krabi. 
• Wildlife Encounters: The trails offer chances to spot monkeys, tropical birds, exotic butterflies, and even rare reptiles along the forest boardwalk.

Also check out: Yung Island Krabi

The Emerald Pool complex within Thung Teao Forest National Park offers far more than a single swimming spot. Here is what awaits you:

Swimming in the Emerald Pool: 

One of the best things to do in Krabi is to swim in the Emerald Pool. The water is refreshingly cool in the morning, but can get lukewarm by mid-afternoon due to the strong tropical sun. Depths are safe for most swimmers, typically between 1.2 and 1.8 metres.

Jungle Trail Walk:

From the parking space, you will come across two trekking paths. A 1.4 km boardwalk nature trail that weaves through lush jungle, passing streams and smaller ponds, or a shorter 800-metre gravel path that leads more directly to the pool. For witnessing its beauty and observing the forest ecosystem up close, a jungle trek is a must-do activity. 

Crystal Pool (Sra Kaew):

Located along the trail on the way to the Emerald Pool, the Crystal Pool is a large, pellucid body of water. It is approximately 35 metres wide and up to 3 metres deep. While you can swim here, you can also enjoy stunning sights. The water's clarity makes the submerged rocks and sediment look like a painting.

The Blue Pool (Sa Nam Pha): 

Situated about 600 metres beyond the Emerald Pool, the Blue Pool is the jewel in the crown for photographers. Its water is an intense, vivid blue, like liquid sapphire, due to its proximity to the thermal spring source. The water temperature can reach 40–50°C, and the surrounding terrain is unstable, so swimming is strictly prohibited. 

The Hermit Shrine:

Along the path to the Blue Pool, you may pass a small, atmospheric shrine dedicated to a hermit who reportedly once lived in the forest. Multiple statues and offerings surround the shrine, offering a quiet spiritual moment within the jungle setting.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting:

The forest trails are excellent for nature observation. Hornbills, kingfishers, and a remarkable variety of tropical birds can be spotted, along with monkeys in the canopy and exotic insects on the forest floor.

The Emerald Pool lies within the broader Khao Phra Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary, one of Krabi's most important protected rainforest areas. It sits inland from the coast, on the flat lowland plains between the mountains and the sea. It is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and Blue Pool is open from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM. 

• Distance from Krabi Town: 55–60 km · approx. 1 hour by car
• Distance from Ao Nang: 70 km · approx. 90 minutes by car

Once you reach the park entrance, you will need to walk about 800 m–1.4 km through a scenic jungle trail to reach the Emerald Pool. 

• By Taxi or Private Car: Hiring a taxi or private car is the easiest and most comfortable option to reach Emerald Pool from Krabi town. It takes around 1.5 hours, which costs around 1,200–2,000 THB (₹2,700–₹4,600) round-trip. 
• By Scooter or Motorbike: Renting a scooter is a popular option for travellers who enjoy exploring Krabi at their own pace. It takes around 1.5-2 hours to reach Emerald Pool. Scooter or motorbike rental costs around 250–350 THB per day (₹575–₹800).
• By Tour Package: Many travellers visit Emerald Pool as part of a Krabi jungle tour, which often includes the Krabi Hot Springs and Blue Pool. 
• By Songthaew (Local Transport): Budget travellers can take a songthaew (shared pickup taxi) from Krabi Town to Khlong Thom and then hire a short taxi ride to the park entrance. A songthaew costs around 200-300 THB (₹460-₹690).

The Emerald Pool is open year-round, but timing your visit carefully can make a significant difference to your experience. 

Best seasons to visit:

• November-April (Dry Season): It is the best time to visit Krabi and Emerald Pool. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, which is perfect for trail exploration and for a relaxing dip in the pool. 
• October & May (shoulder season): It is also the best time to visit for those who are looking for a quieter experience. During this, the surroundings fill with lush greenery with occasional rain showers.
• June-September (Monsoon Season): While the pool remains open, it is not a good time to visit, as the trail can be slippery and muddy. 

Best time of day to arrive: Aim to be at the gate right at opening, 8:30 AM. The pool is at its most magical in the morning light, and the water temperature is at its coolest and most refreshing before the midday sun warms it.

• Krabi Hot Springs Waterfall – A natural hot spring waterfall near Emerald Pool with warm pools (30–40°C). Entry fee: 200 THB for foreigners.
• Tiger Cave Temple – Famous hilltop temple with 1,237 steps leading to panoramic views of Krabi and the Andaman coast.
• Wat Khlong Thom Museum – Small museum displaying ancient beads and artefacts from prehistoric settlements in the region.
• Railay Beach – A stunning beach surrounded by limestone cliffs, reachable only by longtail boat.
• Phi Phi Islands – Popular island group known for snorkelling, dramatic cliffs, and the famous Maya Bay.
• Ao Nang Beach – Krabi’s main tourist hub with restaurants, nightlife, and easy access to island tours.

Food is not permitted inside the Thung Teao Forest Reserve, but there are dining options both at the park entrance and in the wider Krabi area to fuel your day.

Recommended restaurants 

1. Ruean Morakot Restaurant: Located close to the Emerald Pool entrance, this restaurant serves authentic Thai dishes made with fresh ingredients. Popular items include pad thai, curries, seafood, and fruit shakes.

2. Rim Tarn Kitchen Restaurant: A large and comfortable restaurant near the park entrance offering Thai and international dishes. It’s a convenient place to relax and refuel after visiting the pool.

3. Local Food Stalls: You will also find small stalls and cafes near the parking area selling grilled chicken, fried rice, noodles, fresh fruit, and cold drinks.

• Arrive Early: The park opens at 8:30 AM. Arriving at opening time gives you the magic of morning light on the water, cooler water temperatures, and the pool largely to yourself before tour groups begin arriving around 10 AM.
• Bring Swimwear: To swim in the Emerald Pool. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes, or use the on-site changing rooms available at the park.
• Wear Appropriate Footwear: The jungle trail to the Blue Pool can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. 
• Pack Mosquito Repellent: Apply repellent before entering the trail and reapply as needed.
• No Food Inside the Reserve: Eating is not permitted inside the national park boundaries.

Emerald Pool in Krabi is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in southern Thailand. Located inside Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, this natural pool is known for its clear turquoise water, peaceful rainforest setting, and scenic walking trails. Visitors can swim in mineral-rich water, enjoy birdwatching, and explore nearby attractions like Blue Pool and Krabi Hot Springs Waterfall. For nature lovers and adventure seekers, Emerald Pool is easily one of the most memorable experiences to add to Thailand tour packages.