Thailand’s Andaman Jewel of Limestone Cliffs, Islands, and Eco-Tourism
Krabi Province is one of Thailand’s most iconic coastal provinces, located in Southern Thailand along the Andaman Sea. Internationally celebrated for its dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald waters, world-class islands, and eco-tourism, Krabi represents a harmonious balance between natural beauty, sustainable tourism, and local livelihoods.
🏛️ Formation & Historical Background
Krabi’s history is rooted in ancient settlements and maritime trade.
Key Historical Timeline
| Year/Period | Major Event |
|---|---|
| Prehistoric era | Evidence of early human settlements |
| Ancient period | Coastal and river-based communities |
| Ayutthaya period | Part of regional maritime trade routes |
| Rattanakosin era | Administrative integration |
| 1875 | Became a provincial town |
| 1933 | Established as a modern Thai province |
The name “Krabi” is believed to derive from an ancient word related to swords or tools, reflected in local legends.
🧭 Basic Provincial Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Krabi Province |
| Capital City | Krabi |
| Region | Southern Thailand |
| Governor (2025) | Appointed by Ministry of Interior |
| Area | ~4,709 sq km |
| Population (2025 est.) | ~480,000 |
| Time Zone | UTC +7 |
| Main Languages | Thai |
| ISO Code | TH-81 |
Krabi is one of Thailand’s top international tourism provinces.
⚖️ Government & Administration
Krabi follows Thailand’s provincial administrative framework with a strong focus on tourism governance.
| Level | Authority |
|---|---|
| Province | Governor |
| District | District Chiefs (Amphoe) |
| Local | Municipalities & Subdistrict Administrative Organizations |
The Krabi Provincial Hall oversees administration and tourism planning.
🗺️ Administrative Districts of Krabi
Krabi Province consists of 8 districts (Amphoe):
Mueang Krabi
Khao Phanom
Ko Lanta
Khlong Thom
Ao Luek
Plai Phraya
Lam Thap
Nuea Khlong
🌐 Geography & Environment
Topography: Limestone mountains, mangroves, islands
Sea: Andaman Sea
National Parks: Than Bok Khorani, Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi
Islands: Phi Phi, Lanta, Hong Islands
Borders: Phang Nga, Surat Thani, Trang
Krabi is globally famous for its karst landscapes and marine biodiversity.
🏘️ Local Government Structure
Krabi Town Municipality
Ao Nang Municipality
Ko Lanta Municipality
Subdistrict Administrative Organizations (TAO/SAO)
Local governance emphasizes sustainable tourism and coastal management.
🧩 Provincial Development & Priorities
Key development focuses include:
Sustainable & eco-tourism
Marine and coral reef conservation
Community-based tourism
Climate and coastal resilience
Tourism infrastructure improvement
Krabi positions itself as a low-impact, high-value tourism destination.
🛡️ Law Enforcement & Safety
| Agency | Function |
|---|---|
| Krabi Provincial Police | Law enforcement |
| Tourist Police | Visitor safety |
| Marine Police | Coastal & island security |
| Disaster Response Units | Storm & marine emergency response |
Safety planning prioritizes marine tourism and weather preparedness.
🕊️ Religion, Language & Culture
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Major Religions | Buddhism, Islam |
| Cultural Identity | Southern Thai |
| Language | Thai |
| Community Life | Fishing & island communities |
Major Religious & Cultural Sites
Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple)
Krabi City Pillar Shrine
Coastal mosques and temples
Krabi reflects peaceful Buddhist–Muslim coexistence.
📈 Economy & Key Sectors
| Sector | Description |
|---|---|
| Tourism | Beaches, islands & adventure tourism |
| Fisheries | Coastal & marine fishing |
| Agriculture | Rubber, palm oil |
| Services | Hospitality & transport |
Tourism is the dominant economic engine.
🎓 Education & Healthcare
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Higher Education | Local colleges |
| Major Hospitals | Krabi Hospital |
Healthcare services support residents and tourists year-round.
✈️ Transport & Infrastructure
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Airports | Krabi International Airport |
| Roads | Highways linking Andaman provinces |
| Ports | Ferry & speedboat terminals |
| Sea Routes | Island and Andaman connections |
Krabi is a key Andaman Sea transport hub.
🏞️ Tourism & Attractions
Top Attractions
Railay Beach
Phi Phi Islands
Ao Nang
Tiger Cave Temple
Emerald Pool & hot springs
Krabi is among Thailand’s most photographed destinations.
🌍 Regional & National Role
Andaman eco-tourism leader
Marine conservation hub
Island tourism gateway
Sustainable tourism model province
📝 Summary
Krabi Province stands as a symbol of Thailand’s natural splendor. With its towering limestone cliffs, pristine islands, rich marine ecosystems, and commitment to sustainable tourism, Krabi plays a vital role in Southern Thailand—offering a globally admired balance between economic vitality and environmental preservation.
📢 News & Articles
“Sustainable Tourism Practices in Krabi”
“Marine Conservation in the Andaman Sea”
“Community-Based Tourism Success Stories”
🎯 Our Mission
This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, delivering structured, link-ready, and authoritative provincial knowledge.