In a jungle in Krabi is one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets. Travel about an hour out of town to the Bang Khram Wildlife Sanctuary and under a canopy of thick, lush rainforest you’ll find two of the most incredible thermal pools in the world. The area is famous for epic rock climbing and iconic long-tail boats, but until we arrived, we didn’t even know these natural hot tubs existed.
The Blue Pool
The creatively named Blue Pool glows an iridescent turquoise that you simply need to see to believe. It was slightly overcast the day we visited, but the intense blue water seemed to have a life of its own, illuminating the wet trees hanging overhead. The intensity of the coloured water varies according to the light and time of day you visit – we were there early morning which is when the colour is at its best. You’re not allowed to swim in its magical waters, but there’s a nearby pool that you can swim in that’s just as good.
The Emerald Pool
Naturally heated to a toasty 30-50 degrees Celsius, the Emerald Pool is nature’s very own Jacuzzi. The water in the Emerald Pool comes from thermal springs, originating from volcanic chambers deep underground. We got all creative in it with an underwater bikini shoot for cult swimwear label N.L.P Women. It was pretty busy when we were there – I don’t think I’ve ever seen so many selfies going on in the one place. Early morning is the best time to avoid the tourist crowd – we finished up around mid-morning and it was already getting packed.
Photos of me by Jamil Hassan.
