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Bat Cave
Temples & Culture
Krabi

Bat Cave

4.7(25 reviews)

Tucked within the karst landscape of Khao Nap Nam near Krabi town, this atmospheric cave draws visitors for its dramatic natural interior and one of nature's more striking spectacles — thousands of bats streaming out of the cave mouth at dusk in a dense, swirling cloud. The cave itself is large and impressively formed, with notable stalactite formations visible along the route inside. An added layer of curiosity comes from its reported connection to film history, with remnants said to be props left over from the Jackie Chan and Steve Coogan production of Around the World in 80 Days. Getting here is part of the experience. Most visitors arrive by small boat, with one popular option being a short crossing from the nearby Mangrove Walkway for around 100 baht per person — worth negotiating if quoted more. The surrounding mangrove scenery adds to the overall trip, and some visitors combine the cave with a broader boat tour of the area. A head torch is recommended, particularly for those venturing deeper inside. The best time to visit for the bat emergence is around 6pm, when the spectacle is at its peak. Given the outdoor and cave environment, comfortable footwear suitable for uneven terrain is advisable. Opening hours are not confirmed, so arriving before sunset is the safest approach for those hoping to witness the bats.

Experience hints

Hidden gem

Pair your visit. After Bat Cave, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

Once you arrive from a boat (we took the small boat crossing from the Mangrove walkway for 100 baht per person, haggled down from 300baht) it's a short walk to the bat cave, if you have a head torch. It's very small, and as you can imagine, stinks of sulfur. I wouldn't suggest touching anything beyond the rock to climb into the Cave, and sanitise afterwards. The bats mainly crowd around the far corner at the back, but after a certain point it's clear where you shouldn't go further in. There are hundred of bats in here, really worth having a look if you are interested!

This was a surprise with steps that lead up into a large cave. It was said this was the props left over from the film Around the World in 80 Days with Jackie Chan and Steve Coogan. Great boat ride to reach the cave very enjoyable but beware of the monkeys who will steal food or anything else. Highly recommended first class. 👍👌🙏

Beautiful cave, large one, with interesting content, and beautiful tour in the mangrove after !!

Visitor Information

Best time to visit

November – April

Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)

Rainy season

May – October

Avg. temperature

23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)

Crowds

High

Peak: December – February

Getting there

Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus/minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.

Getting around

  • Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
  • Songthaews in Ao Nang
  • Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
  • Motorbike rental

Where to stay near Bat Cave

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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.

Mind Your Feet

Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.

Ask Before Photographing

Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.

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