Bat Cave
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
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 !!
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.
Also Popular in Krabi
Ko Lanta
Coral-fringed beaches draw scuba divers to this lush island district with a national park.
Ko Phi Phi Don
Largest island in the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, featuring scenic inlets, beach resorts & restaurants.
Emerald Pool
A natural spring-fed pool in Krabi's jungle, famed for its striking emerald-green water and peaceful rainforest setting.
Kodam Kitchen branch 1
Highly regarded budget Thai restaurant in Ao Nang, open daily, known for curries, seafood, and Pad Thai.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha
Doi Suthep Temple
Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi
The Grand Palace
Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.
Pattaya Walking Street
Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.
Location Info
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
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