Everything you need to know about the epic bat cave viewpoint at the end of Phra Nang Beach in Railay, Thailand.
While Railay is known for its spectacular white sand beaches and jungle-covered limestone walls. However, it’s also an adventure hub for rock climbers and those chasing more than just passing time on the beach.
In this guide, I’ll introduce to you one of my favorite viewpoints in Railay, the epic Bat Cave, located at the end of Phra Nang Beach. I’ll detail how to get here, what to expect, and some insights from my visit that i hope will inspire yours!
About the Railay Bat Cave
If you look over at the western end of Phra Nang Beach, it's hard to miss the huge cave carved out of the towering limestone pillar named Gwaht Lan. This is the little-known Railay Bat Cave and offers one of the most unique viewpoints on the Railay Peninsula. Although it's nowhere near as popular, the Bat Cave is even more awesome than the other Railay Caves including the Diamond Cave (Phra Nang Nai Cave), and Princess Cave.
There's also a pretty hardcore rock climbing route at the back of this cave, leading through the cave from the Railay West side to Phra Nang. In this post I won't cover this rock climbing route, but more the viewpoint accessible via a short walk from the Phra Nang Beach.
How to Get to the Bat Cave at Phra Nang Beach
Since the Bat Cave is in Railay, you'll need to get here first. Note there are no roads to the Railay Peninsula, so you'll need to take a boat. I've written a detailed guide about how to get to Railay Beach from Ao Nang Beach and other parts of Krabi for more information.
Once you've made it to Railay, you'll want to walk to Phra Nang Beach. Alternatively, you can get your longtail boat driver to drop you off here directly if coming from Ao Nang.
To get to Phra Nang Beach, simply walk over to the southern end of Railay East Beach. From here, you'll find a short walking track leading under the limestone cliffs to Phra Nang Beach, passing the trailhead for the Railay East Viewpoint & Lagoon hike.
Arriving at Phra Nang Beach, follow the sandy shores to the western end. Right at the end of the beach, you'll see a trail leading into the jungle. Follow this trail and climb the short, muddy wall to the edge of the limestone cliffs. This is a popular rock climbing area, so be mindful of rock climbers belaying.
Next, turn left, passing the small caves. By now, you'll see the huge bat cave protruding into the wall. Overall, it only takes around 10 minutes to get to the entrance from the beach.
Climbing Up to the Bat Cave Viewpoint
The Bat Cave climb is quite short and aided by a rickety bamboo ladder. The hike is quite easy, but the floor can be slippery, so it's probably a good idea to wear sealed shoes or water sandals for hiking.
From the entrance to the cave, expect less than 5 minutes to be at the Bat Cave viewpoint overlooking Phra Nang Beach. The path is very easy to follow.
However, the opening section can be quite slippery when raining. Once you're in the cave, continue deeper, keeping an eye out on the right for a small, narrow tunnel. Squeeze through this tunnel and you'll arrive at the Bat Cave Viewpoint, one of the best places for epic views in Railay!
Beautiful View from the Railay Bat Cave
Walking through the narrow tunnel unveils a magical scene of Phra Nang Beach and Ko Rang Nok island framed perfectly within the rocky cavern opening. We visited at a good time, since high tide and a sunny day meant for amazing clear water views.
There's even a small rocky feature behind that is a great place to sit to enjoy the view!
We stayed at this viewpoint for about 20 minutes before crawling back through the small opening and walking back down to the beach.
Where to Stay at Railay
Railay is a small peninsula with no cars or road transport. Therefore, you can walk to all the pristine beaches, where most of the best Railay Beach hotels and resorts are located. There are also a few budget backpacker hostels right on the beach.
Below are the top 3 places to stay in Railay for each budget.
1. Rayavadee Luxury
The best 5-star luxury accommodation in Railay famous for its epic cave restaurant. Boasts immaculately designed rooms, 6 restaurants, an outdoor pool, & incredible balcony views.
2. Tinidee Hideaway Villa
Amazing sea-view villas overlooking the impeccable Tonsai Beach. The most romantic place to stay for couples. Features a beachside pool & world-class breakfast included.
3. Blanco Hideout Budget
Easily the best backpacker hostel in Railay featuring a pool, two bars, a restaurant, a gym, and great common areas for sunbathing and meeting other travelers.
Don't miss:
Railay Diamond Cave (Tham Phra Nang Nai)
More Railay & Krabi Adventures
Enjoy this quick guide to the Railay Bat Cave? Check out some of my other guides below for more similar inspiration for your adventures in Railay and Krabi!
