Railay Beach in Krabi, Thailand, is famous for its limestone climbing cliffs, but I’ve also spotted wild dusky leaf monkeys here on every single visit.
Among the diverse animals you can spot on this peninsula is the Dusky Leaf Monkey, a species listed as Endangered by the IUCN. These monkeys stand out with their distinctive black and grey coloring (bright orange for the babies) and gentle, shy nature.
I’ve visited Railay several times and I spotted a group of these monkeys on each occasion. On my last trip I finally set out to photograph them, so here’s my guide on how and where you can reliably spot these awesome Railay Beach monkeys!
About the Dusky Leaf Monkeys
Dusky Leaf Monkeys, also known as Spectacled Langurs, are black and grey primates with distinctive white rings around their eyes, giving them a "spectacled" appearance.
Unlike the common Macaque monkeys you'll find on "Monkey Beach" and the famous Ao Nang Monkey Trail, these guys are generally very shy and gentle, feeding mainly on leaves, fruits, and flowers.
They live across southern Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia and Myanmar, but habitat loss, road deaths and the pet trade have pushed them onto the IUCN's Endangered list. Luckily, Railay has no cars and is very laid back, and it seems these monkeys have taken a liking!
| Dusky leaf monkey | Long-tailed macaque | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Black and grey with white rings around the eyes; babies are bright orange for their first six months | Grey-brown fur and a tail as long as its head and body |
| Diet | Mostly young leaves, shoots and fruit | Fruit, plus crabs and shellfish from the mangroves (and any snack left unattended) |
| Around people | Shy, stays high in the canopy | Bold, grabs food and bags |
| Where I see them in Krabi | The Phra Nang Beach path and Rayavadee grounds at Railay | The Ao Nang Monkey Trail and the Tiger Cave Temple stairs |
| IUCN status | Endangered | Endangered |
Where to Spot the Dusky Leaf Monkeys at Railay Beach
Railay Beach is a prime location to spot these elusive primates due to its lush, tropical environment and relatively quiet atmosphere compared to other tourist spots.
I've spotted these monkeys all over Railay, high in the trees on Railay Walking Street and even in my hotel near Railay East Beach. However, they're usually hiding quite high in the canopy, and hardly ever around long enough to get a good photo.
However, I now know exactly where to look for them if you want to spot and photograph these monkeys in Railay reliably and responsibly.
Hiking Trail to Phra Nang Beach in the Early Morning
Railay's Dusky Leaf Monkeys are usually most active in the early mornings. I asked around the town and some locals told me that you could spot them on the walking path to Phra Nang Beach, leading on from the southern end of Railay East Beach.
This is known as the Cave Path and is a scenic path passing the famous Railay East Viewpoint and Princess Lagoon trailhead. There is a high fence between the rock wall and the Rayavadee Hotel, but the monkeys are often seen walking along the fence.
I recommend being quiet and looking up into the canopy. It only took us about 15 minutes before we spotted a mother and her baby. Below are some photos I captured during my visit.
Rayavadee Hotel Grounds
After about an hour of photographing these monkeys, we continued onto Phra Nang Beach. To our surprise, we spotted even more Dusky Leaf Monkeys on the trees right near the beach! They were hanging out in the fruit trees of the Rayavadee Hotel grounds and didn't seem too shy at all.
Although we weren't staying there, the staff kindly allowed us to take some photos.
Responsible Wildlife Tips in Railay
Whether you're watching dusky leaf monkeys, macaques or any other wildlife in Railay, these guidelines keep the animals and you safe:
- Keep Your Distance: Always maintain a respectful distance from the monkeys. Avoid getting too close, as this can stress them out and alter their natural behavior. They don't usually attack like macaques, but you should still keep your distance.
- Do Not Feed the Monkeys: Feeding wildlife can disrupt their diet and lead to dependency on human food, which is unhealthy for them.
- Respect Their Habitat: Stay on designated paths and avoid disturbing their natural habitat. Do not attempt to touch or grab the monkeys.
- Dispose of Trash Properly: Ensure you don't leave any litter behind, as this can harm the monkeys and other wildlife.
- Observe Quietly: Try to remain as quiet as possible to avoid startling the monkeys and to enjoy observing them in their natural behavior.
Railay Beach Monkey FAQs
Are dusky leaf monkeys friendly?
They're gentle and shy rather than friendly. Most of the ones I've seen at Railay stayed high in the canopy, though the troop in the Rayavadee grounds was relaxed enough to photograph. They don't usually get aggressive like the macaques on the Ao Nang Monkey Trail, but never touch or feed them.
Why are baby dusky leaf monkeys orange?
Dusky leaf monkeys are born with a bright orange coat that turns grey like the adults' within about six months. In my photos, the babies stand out against the green canopy far more than their parents do.
What time of day is best to see monkeys at Railay Beach?
Early morning. Locals pointed me to the path to Phra Nang Beach, and it took about 15 minutes of quietly scanning the trees to spot a mother and her baby.
Where else can you see monkeys in Krabi?
Long-tailed macaques are easy to find on the Ao Nang Monkey Trail and the stairs at Tiger Cave Temple. They're far bolder than dusky leaf monkeys, so zip your bag and keep food out of sight.
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
Known as one of the best resorts in Krabi. This 5-star luxury accommodation in Railay is 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.
I hope you've enjoyed this quick animal-spotting travel guide to Railay! Before you go, make sure to check out some of my other blog posts below for more inspiration for what to do and see in Krabi.
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.
Graham
Sunday 23rd of February 2025
Thanks for your post Olly! Excited to (hopefully) spot some Dusty Leaf Monkeys myself!
Found your recommendation of Blanco interesting, have you stayed there yourself? I originally booked with them however cancelled after they messaged me their un-posted policy of keeping travellers’ passports as form of deposit (not a copy of passport like most places, but holding the physical document), which raised all sorts of red flags for me. Thoughts?