Krabi: crowded Emerald Pool

We had already overcome the hardships of the Tiger Cave Temple. Now we wanted to cool off a bit in the Emerald Pool, which is about an hour away. It is a natural freshwater pool in the middle of the jungle. Since we had rented our taxi for the whole day, we could continue directly. Unfortunately, we had to decide beforehand whether to visit the Tiger Cave Temple or the Emerald Pool first, and we chose the temple, so we already expected more activity due to the time of day. However, this was completely underestimated.

When we arrived at the parking lot and saw the multitude of tour buses and cars, we already suspected something bad. But well, we had come all the way here, now we would go through with it. So, we obediently paid the entrance fee of 200 Bhat and had to walk a bit. There are two ways to reach the Emerald Pool: a short one of 800 meters and a slightly longer one of 1.4 kilometers. We decided on the longer route because there was nothing going on there. A good decision, because here we were almost alone and could admire the amazing nature in peace as soon as we entered the jungle.

You can hear that we are getting closer to the Emerald Pool directly from the noise. When we arrive, surprisingly the pool is not as crowded as initially expected. We even find an empty bench where we can leave our things. So, out of our sweaty clothes and into the cool water! The water is pleasant and crystal clear. You can even see a few fish. Unfortunately, it doesn't last very long and the pool gradually fills up with more and more people. From one moment to the next, it is suddenly completely crowded. A noise like in the middle of summer at the public swimming pool. We watch the hustle and bustle for a short while, but as we are increasingly shouted at in various languages directly in our ears, we've had enough and make our way to the Blue Pool. You can't swim in it, but because of its deep blue color, the pool is supposed to be quite impressive. The path takes a while and when we arrive, we realize that it is actually just a small puddle. Well, the color is really nice to look at, but that's about it. But at least it's quiet here, so we stay for a bit longer before we make our way back to mass tourism.

The situation hasn't really improved. At least it has become a bit less crowded at the edge of the pool. We cool off one more time, but the many people are starting to get on our nerves. A short time later, we retreat. Right behind the entrance, there are some small stalls where we buy a snack. But then the day is over for us and we get delivered back to our accommodation.

Our conclusion about the Emerald Pool: if you don't want to miss a visit, you should definitely come in the early morning hours. That's when you still have most of the places to yourself. It is supposedly quieter again in the late afternoon. However, we wouldn't necessarily visit the Emerald Pool again.