Is your mind repeatedly warning you to watch out for snakes or any potentially dangerous species on your hike up the Dragon Crest Mountain Trail? Before the trek, I read a million google reviews on the hike and the presence of creepy crawlies were mentioned no where. Now, as I have done the hike, the answer is a BIG NO. No potentially fatal animals flew at us from anywhere! Phew! (The mind workings of a first time hiker who is terrified of snakes!) Introducing Adventurous Thailand, a facet that is not explored by many who visit this beautiful country.
The trek up Dragon Crest Mountain Trail locally known as Khao Ngon Nak takes about 5 hours up & down. Be sure to carry ample fluids. Also, there is an amazing scenic picnic spot up at the peak, so be sure to carry some food.
DRAGON CREST MOUNTAIN HIKE
WHAT TO CARRY ON THE HIKE
- Plenty of water
- Mosquito repellant band/spray
- Hiking Poles
- Phone with local sim in case of emergencies
- Forest guards contact number
- Some food to enjoy at a picnic spot atop the mountain
- A wide angle camera for the viewpoints
- A tripod
HOW TO GET TO THE DRAGON CREST TRAIL
Located in Nong Thale, 30 minutes from Krabi town, the departure point is tucked away from the main road. We took our hotel cab and it costed us $45 round trip. Tuk-Tuk’s generally cost slightly lesser but not so much of a saving. The Dragon Crest Mountain trail is 4 kilometre’s of steady climb coupled with steep slopes. The terrain is extremely dry hence the slopes are slippery
Dragon Crest Mountain Trail Entrance Location: https://goo.gl/maps/vwn8u91zz5YPRwA96
Once you register at the counter (free!), you are shown the map of the protected area and given a forest guards number in case of emergencies. Mosquito repellant bands/spray and a comfy broken-in pair of shoes are a must. We did see a lot of people climbing barefoot/ in flip flops. Unless you are used to hiking that way, we wouldn’t recommend it as the climb is very dry and there is a high chance of skidding especially on your way down. Please do not attempt the climb hung over. It is sweaty climb and you will be dehydrated in no time. With that fair amount of warning, let get going.
THE BEST TIME TO HIKE THE DRAGON CREST TRAIL
The best time to hike Dragon Crest Mountain trail is early morning before sunrise but hiking up the steep terrains in the dark can be bit of a challenge. We started our climb at 11:00 AM after a good breakfast at our beloved Ibis Styles Krabi Ao Nang. The first 20 minutes of the hike is on flat terrain, with small shrines along the way and steady streams rushing by. All you would hear are the rustling of trees, the gushing streams, dry leaves crunching at your feet. As we went in the month of January, the climate was extremely pleasant with a cool breeze keeping us company throughout the hike.
First View Point
After the flat terrain, there is a dramatic steep climb with tree roots serving as steps. The more you climb, the cooler it gets and more deep into the jungle you feel. Though we thought of listening to music, we did not even turn it on once. The cacophony of crickets, birds and other forest noises kept us mesmerised throughout. The crickets definitely gave a creepy edge to the entire hike.
Protruding Ledge. Clicked by a fellow hiker.
After a 3 hour hike, you will reach the first view point which is up on a rock. The far off islands, the turquoise sea glistening in the sun, all makes this long, sweaty hike totally worth it. This point offers lovely views and serves as a picnic spot.There is a protruding ledge here which makes for some daredevil picture. But this picture can only be captured from another view point ledge a couple of steps away. So be sure to carry a tripod or if you are lucky enough you will find another hiker to click for you. It’s well worth the effort.
PS: We spent NYE in Krabi and it was a pleasant change to be in a place that was not crowded:)
Those views look amazing! I love going hiking when I travel!