Rock climbing Railay Bay style
When you think of the idyllic islands of South Thailand, rock climbing is probably not the first adventure activity that springs to mind.
However after an accidental trip to the stunning Railay Bay, my opinion on the adventurous side of Thailand was most certainly changed. The area of Railay Bay is somewhat unheard of compared to the populous islands of South Thailand such as Koh Phi Phi and Koh Toa. Situated on the South West of the Krabi Province, the area is surrounded by lush high limestone cliffs which make Railay accessible only by boat from the town of Ao Nang.
Arriving at Railay Bay from Ao Nang the first thing that greets you is the stunning array of limestone cliffs towering above the white sand Phranang beach. Steep caves jut out over the beach, with the contrasting natural greenery that surrounds makes it a perfect setting for adventure exploration. The area itself is merely a few miles long and half a mile wide, making accessibility to each side of the island easy and creating a somewhat local feel. There are two sides to Railay: East Railay and West Railay. Upon arrival it is West Railay that you are greeted by a haven of upmarket resorts and restaurants jutting out onto the beachfront. A little exploration will take you through to the other side of Railay East, which is where the character of the bay really comes into swing.
Situated amidst the limestone cliffs and jungle, Railay East really captures the rural feel so associated with Thailand. After a month of over populated backpackers retreats such as Koh Phi Phi, I was ready to embrace a local experience and Railay offered just that. The Cabana bungalows are situated half a mile away from the East beach, beyond a beaten track and amongst the lush green landscape that towers above and beyond. It is here, in a little cabin perched upon a hill that I felt my true experience of Thailand and the beauty not normally associated with the South.
One of the main attractions to Railay and the activity that makes it such an awesome adventure destination is undoubtedly the limestone rock climbing the area has to offer. Popular with beginners or advanced climbers, the steep cliffs make for a challenging climb. Considered one of the best limestone climbing destinations in the world, part of the appeal of Railay bay is not only its undiscovered feel by the mass travelling market, but the local instructors who enhance the experience undoubtabley. Many have lived on Railay for years and could, quite arguably, give Spiderman a run for his money. What impressed me so much was not only the value for money (650 baht for a day session – around £11) but the quality of instruction that goes alongside it. As a beginner the towering cliffs are somewhat daunting, however my instructor made certain I had learnt how to set myself up safely before letting me approach the course.
The challenge and difficulty faced was absolutely thrilling, as you climb further up and look beyond towards the crystal blue sea. Encouragement from the instructors adds to a feeling of achievement and security which is what makes the climbing experience a little more personal. Many climbers come to Railay specifically for climbing holidays, although as of yet there are not many companies offering accommodation and climbing packages. Once arriving at Railay it is extremely easy to find an instructor, through various booking agents in the bay and the unavoidable friendly locals who are bound to know an instructor or two.
The nightlife on Railay West and Railay East differs somewhat, west preferring a relaxed upmarket feel (with a little added expense) whereas East favours the laid back, bohemian backpacker approach. The population of the island is small, with many workers travelling in daily from other areas of Krabi. The week that I spent in Railay rapidly accustomed me with simple Thai living; before the week was out I was invited to dinner with locals and attended a birthday party in the jungle. If you are simply looking for a place to relax, Railay has some of the most stunning beaches I have seen in Asia. Phranang beach in particular is an unknown treasure, with caves hanging over the sea and an abundance of cliffs that can be explored day or night. Snorkelling, sea kayaking and trekking are also available activities. There is also a lagoon which once accessed over looks the East and West beaches, making for a stunning view of the bay. What makes Railay so special is that you feel like you have been let in on a little secret, avoiding the mass crowd of tourists and partaking in an adventure unique to the rock climbing world. Posted 10/12/09 - - Rock Climbing, Railay
Comment 22/12/09 - 14:50 -
Crap, John
cool!
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