Travel guide to the famous Krabi Hot Springs, also known as the Hot Stream Waterfall in Southern Thailand. Includes how to get there, what to expect, and tips for your visit.
The Krabi Hot Springs are a hot waterfall in thejungle near Krabi that spills straight into a cold river, which is a combination I haven’t found anywhere else in Thailand. We visited the Krabi Hot Springs on a full-day inland tour from Ao Nang, and found it to be the perfect inland day trip for those looking for things to do on the mainland between island hopping excursions to Phi Phi Island and beyond.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about one of my favorite natural hot springs in Thailand, the Krabi Hot Stream, which offers a great place to swim in natural thermal waters in the middle of the jungle.
Krabi Hot Springs Quick Facts
| Opening Hours | 8:30am - 6pm daily |
| Entry fee (foreigners) | 200 THB adults/ 100 THB children |
| Entry fee (Thai nationals) | 40 THB adults / 20 THB children |
| Shuttle to the waterfall | 20 THB per person (optional, 400 m walk) |
| Distance from Ao Nang | 1-1.5 hours by car |
| Distance from Krabi Town | 50 minutes by car |
| Best time to visit | November to April; arrive before 9am |
| Water temperature | 35–42°C (95–108°F) |
About the Krabi Hot Springs
The Krabi hot springs are located in the Khlong Thom District of Krabi in Southern Thailand. There are quite a few thermal springs in this geothermal region, but the best one to visit is the Krabi Hot Stream located near the famous Emerald Pool and Blue Pool of the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve.
This site boasts a delightful hot spring waterfall that provides a natural jacuzzi-like mineral-rich bath before it flows into a refreshing and cool river.
Which Krabi Hot Spring Should You Visit?
Krabi has three thermal sites that all get called "the hot springs", and they are not the same place.
- Namtok Ron, the Hot Stream Waterfall - the one this guide covers, and the one I would send you to. A natural hot waterfall running into a cool river inside the Khao Phra Bang Khram Nature Reserve. 200 THB (about US$6) for foreign adults, 100 THB for children, open 08:30 to 18:00.
- Klong Thom Saline Hot Springs Park - eight man-made saltwater pools rather than a waterfall, open 05:00 to 20:00 for the same 200 THB. Better if you want to soak early or late, worse if you came for the jungle setting.
- Wareerak Hot Spring and Wellness - a wellness resort rather than a public site, with spring-fed mineral pools, Thai massage and yoga in botanical gardens. The spa option, not the swim option.
If you only do one, do the Hot Stream. It is the only one of the three where you can sit in a hot waterfall and then slide into a cold river a few steps away.
How to Get to the Natural Hot Stream from Krabi
The most convenient way to get to the hot springs for travelers staying in the Krabi Province tourist areas of Ao Nang or Railay Beach is to book the popular full-day Emerald Pool tour.
This is the ideal day trip for inland excursions as it features all the main attractions including:
- Emerald Pool, Blue Pool, & Crystal Pool
- Krabi Hot Springs
- Climb to Tiger Cave Temple
This is the same full-day tour that I went on and offers the most affordable and convenient way to visit these inland highlights of the Krabi Area.
Tip: If you're staying in Krabi Town or Klong Muang, you can also find some great group tours below.
Alternative: Drive or Taxi to the Hot Springs
The group tours above offer the best value for money as you'll be sharing an air-conditioned van with other travelers, saving you the cost and trouble of paying for return transfers independently.
However, if you're set on getting to the thermal pools by yourself, then you can always rent a car at Krabi Airport or Krabi Town. There is a parking fee of 50 baht.
The other option is to pay for a taxi for the return drive for about 2,500 THB. You'll want to head to the Google Maps Pin "Hot Stream Krabi", taking roughly 50 minutes from Krabi town, or just over an hour from Ao Nang.
What to Expect at the Krabi Hot Spring
As you arrive at the hot springs site, you'll notice a large entrance gate next to the parking lot where you'll need to pay the entrance fee.
- Foreigners 200 Thai Baht (adults) and 100 Thai Baht (children).
- Thai nationals pay a discounted rate of 40 Baht (adults) and 20 Baht (children).
After paying the fee, you can follow the short walk along the nature trail on the right, passing some clear, hot streams along the way. (There is a shuttle available as well for 20 baht per person.) This jungle trail is scenic and features a raised boardwalk. After roughly 10 minutes you'll arrive at the main hot springs area.
If you want to go to the natural hot springs waterfall, you'll want to go right immediately after you arrive. Follow the signed path along the river for a few hundred meters and you'll get to the hot stream.
Swimming at the Hot Stream Waterfall
By far, the highlight of the trip for me was swimming at this awesome little hot spring waterfall. This was refreshing after visiting other hot springs in Thailand that were simply too hot to swim in!
This is one of the most unique waterfalls that I've visited in Thailand, featuring a few small pools that act as a natural hot tub jacuzzi at the top. This was refreshing after the hike up to Dragon Crest Mountain the day before.
This water contains mineral salts and calcium carbonate, which people pay a lot of money for at expensive spas!
The ground is made up of smooth stone that isn't slippery at all. It reminded me of the Sticky Waterfall in Chiang Mai as it is very grippy. The water temperature ranges between 35 to 42 degrees Celsius (95 to 108°F), which is quite nice but feels hot on a warm, humid day in Southern Thailand.
The best part is, if you get too warm, you can slide down into the cool, refreshing waters of the river. The hot spring waterfall flows directly into it, meaning you can swim in warmer water closer to the falls, or cooler water further away.
Tip: If you must use sunscreen make sure it is biodegradable as this waterfall runs into the river and could impact the environment.
The Thermal Pools
While I prefer the natural waterfall, there are some other man-made pools that you can swim in. In total, there are three different mini pools, offering a variation in temperature. These warm pools are fed by the same natural springs heated by deep volcanic chambers and filtered by fresh running spring water.
I found that the hottest one was way too hot to spend any time in.
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More Attractions & Site Features at Krabi Hot Springs
As well as the main Hot Stream Waterfall and the hot water pools, other facilities at the site include:
- Freshwater showers
- A Thai Massage parlor by the river
- Small food and drink stand
- Picnic areas with jungle and river views
- A network of trails for hiking
Where to Stay in Krabi
To explore the best of Krabi and experience the beautiful islands, hikes, and white-sand beaches, you'll want to stay at Ao Nang Beach, Krabi Town, Ton Sai, or Railay Beach.
Below are the three top accommodation picks for all budgets.
1. Rayavadee Luxury
Amazing 5-star luxury accommodation adjacent to the Krabi Marine National Park in Railay. Boasts immaculately designed rooms, 6 restaurants, an outdoor pool, & incredible balcony views.
2. Anana Ecological Resort Mid-Range
An eco-friendly resort offering a large outdoor swimming pool, beautifully designed rooms & amazing garden with onsite cooking classes. The best part is the excellent price.
3. TAN Hostel Budget
The best backpacker hostel in Krabi just 700 m from Ao Nang Beach & near many restaurants, shops, & bars. Has a great vibe with a neat and tidy co-work area & an excellent onsite cafe.
Tips & Things to Know About Visiting Krabi's Hot Springs
Before you go, here are some useful tips and things to know about visiting the Krabi Hot Springs.
- The best time to visit is early: The natural hot spring opening hours are 8:30 to 6:00 pm. I recommend visiting in the early morning as this is a popular place to visit for tourists all over Southern Thailand.
- The best time of year to visit: The best time to visit is between November to April.
- Some pools are very hot: The waters at the hot stream waterfall are quite pleasant. However, some jungle streams on the hiking trails, as well as the hot mini pool can be very hot. So be careful of burns.
- Washrooms and changing rooms: There are changing rooms where you can change your clothes and shower near the main natural hot water swimming pool.
- Hydrate: It's surprising how much you can sweat in these hot pools. I recommend bringing some water to make sure you stay hydrated.
- Bring your own food if you have preferences: There's a food court near the entrance car park, but options are limited. If you have dietary requirements or just want more choice, pack your own snacks.
- Scooter riders - The roads from Ao Nang to the hot springs are well-paved all the way, so it's a doable ride for confident riders. Be sure to account for the tropical heat.
- Soak in short stints - Fifteen minutes at a time is plenty in water this warm, especially in the hotter man-made pools. Get out, cool off in the river, then go back in.
- Bring cash in small notes - There is no card payment at the gate, on the shuttle, or at the food stand.
- Pack mosquito repellent - You are in jungle beside running water and the walk in is shaded.
Tip: The famous Tiger Cave Temple is a worthwhile attraction you can stop at on the way back to Krabi from the hot springs.
FAQ About Krabi Hot Springs & Waterfall
How much is the entrance fee to the Krabi Hot Springs?
The entrance fee is 200 Thai Baht for foreign adults and 100 Thai Baht for children. Thai nationals enjoy a discounted rate of 40 baht for adults and 20 Baht for children.
Is it safe to swim in the Krabi Hot Springs?
Yes, swimming in the Krabi Hot Springs is safe. The waters are naturally warm and rich in mineral salts, offering a therapeutic experience. However, some pools can be very hot, so it's important to test the water before fully immersing yourself and be sure to drink lots of water.
Can I get to the Krabi Hot Springs without joining a tour?
Yes, you can drive or take a taxi to the Krabi Hot Springs. It's located about 50 minutes from Krabi town and just over an hour from Ao Nang. Renting a car is also an option for more flexibility.
What should I bring to the Krabi Hot Springs?
Bring swimwear, a towel, water, and a camera for photos. Wearing water shoes is also recommended for comfort while walking on the smooth stones however they are quite grippy.
Is the Krabi Hot Springs visit worth it?
Absolutely. The Krabi Hot Springs offers a unique natural jacuzzi experience hidden in a lush jungle. It's a perfect relaxation spot after adventurous activities like island hopping or hiking. Be sure to get here early to avoid crowds. It's open from 8:30 am to 6:00 pm daily.
More Things to Do in Krabi
Spend less time in transit & more time snorkeling among coral gardens and lazing on white sand beaches at the incredible Phi Phi Islands. Visits Maya Bay, Lohsamah, and Monkey Bay.
An epic 7-hour tour to the turquoise sea and white sand beaches of Koh Hong. Relax in the warm Thai sunshine, swim and snorkel in clear blue water & go kayaking.
3. Emerald Pool, Blue Lagoon & Tiger Cave Temple
Visit the top mainland attractions from hot springs to amazing turquoise lagoons in the jungle.
Read More Krabi & Thailand Travel Guides
I hope you've found this quick guide to the Krabi Hot Springs and Hot Stream Waterfall useful for your Thailand travel itinerary planning.
Before you go, check out some of my other guides below for more inspiration and ideas for your trip!
Plan Your Krabi Accommodation
Still in the planning stages of your trip? Perhaps you're booking on the fly. The below accommodation guides will help you plan where to stay in Thailand.
- Things to do in Krabi - My ultimate guide to must-see spots & hidden gems
- How to Get to Krabi from Phuket - best transport routes & options
- Things to do in Railay - my ultimate guide to Thai backpacker mecca
- 10 Best Krabi Island Tours - discover the best of Thailand's south
- Best Beaches in Krabi - find the top 15 beaches you need to visit on your trip.
