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A useful travel guide to visiting Diamond Cave, or “Tham Phra Nang Nai” at Railay Beach, Krabi, Thailand.
The Railay Peninsula is known for its impressive limestone features, world-class rock climbing, and amazing beaches.
However, did you know that it’s also home to many awesome caves to explore? The Diamond Cave is a large grotto that is among the most famous in Railay Bay. It features the best stalagmite and stalactite rock formations and makes for a worthwhile stop on your list of things to do at Railay Beach.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about visiting the cave, including how to get there, what to expect, and some tips for your visit.
About Railay Beach’s Diamond Cave
Diamond Cave, also known as Tham Phra Nang Nai in Thai, is a large, natural limestone cave at the northern end of East Railay Beach, Thailand. It is among one of Railay’s three popular caves, which includes Princess Cave at Phra Nang Beach and the Railay Bat Cave.
The cave is nearby the famous Cave Resort at Railay East. It is a popular place to visit for those exploring the peninsula due to its spectacular rock formations and glimmering pool present in the rainy season.
The cave features a large, main cavern which is accessible via a narrow passageway leading to the edge of the limestone cliffs. The cave is also home to many bats. Expect to spend about 15-20 minutes in the cave.
How to Get to Railay Beach
Since the Diamond Cave is located in the southernmost Krabi Peninsula, then you’ll first need to get to Railay. This is part of the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. Note, there are no roads to Railay Beach, so you’ll need to get here via a short long tail boat ride from Ao Nang or Krabi Town (100 THB per person– must wait for 8 passengers to fill the boat).
Alternatively, to save money and time, many travelers choose to book a speedboat trip, combining a visit to Railay with a stop at the nearby Krabi Islands. Below are three more popular options.
Where is the Diamond Cave at Railay?
Diamond Cave is located just north of Railay East Beach. Expect just a 9-minute to walk to the cave from the floating pier. To get here, simply walk north along the beach, turning left onto the main Railay Walking Street (corner of the “Welcome Back” restaurant).
Then, take the first right after the Samonsi Take Away Restaurant & Shake Shop. Next, walk all the way down this road, passing the limestone walls until you see a large sign for the entrance of the cave.
The Google Maps pin is Diamond Cave / Phra Nang Nai Cave. Below I’ve included a quick map to help you find it easily.
What to Expect at the Diamond Cave
Diamond Cave Entrance Fee: 200 Thai Baht
As soon as you arrive at the cave entrance, you’ll notice a large shaded area where staff will be sitting to collect the entrance fee. They asked me for 200 Thai Baht, which I believe is supposed to go to the Phi Phi Island National Park.
After speaking with other travelers and reading some reviews of the cave online, I came to the conclusion that the entrance fee to Diamond Cave is negotiable. Many others have noted that you don’t get a receipt for payment, so perhaps the staff are just pocketing the fee for themselves.
Regardless, I paid up and was waved toward the large, obvious entrance to the cave at the foot of the limestone cliff. There’s also a grandiose signpost which is hard to miss.
The Cave Entrance & Passageway
The cave entrance is a tall, narrow passageway that is elevated above the cave floor. As soon as you enter, you’ll notice a drastic drop in temperature, a cool shelter from the humid heat of Southern Thailand.
There are lights throughout the cave making it easy to see. However, it might be a good idea to bring your phone torch in case of power outs (which are common in Railay).
The elevated platform is made of bamboo, wood, and concrete blocks, many of which are broken or loose– so watch your step. There are some nice stalagmite formations on the left, illuminated by the cave lighting.
Shortly after the entrance, the passage turns left, squeezing through a narrow section before opening up to the main cavern.
Don’t miss:
Railay East Viewpoint Hike & Lagoon
Main Cavern
The main cavern is a large, open space with a high ceiling and impressive limestone formations all around it. These are large, hanging rocks formed by the eroding effect of water dripping from the mountains. The walkway wraps around in a big loop, allowing visitors to walk around and peer into the other cave sections.
In the middle of this space, there is a large pool. Apparently, in the rainy season, this fills, reflecting the light onto the cave walls, creating a vibrant sparkling effect. This is where the name “Diamond Cave” comes from.
I spent about 15 minutes all up in this cave admiring the formations. During that time there were only two other visitors, and it was a nice experience being alone with the bats in the cave.
Where to Stay at Railay
Railay is a small peninsula with no cars or road transport. Therefore, you can walk to all the pristine beaches, where most of the accommodation options are located. These range from budget backpacker hostels to amazing 5-star resorts on right the beach.
Below are the top 3 places to stay in Railay for each budget.
1. Rayavadee Luxury
The best 5-star luxury accommodation in Railay famous for its epic cave restaurant. Boasts immaculately designed rooms, 6 restaurants, an outdoor pool, & incredible balcony views.
2. Tinidee Hideaway Villa
Amazing sea-view villas overlooking the impeccable Tonsai Beach. The most romantic place to stay for couples. Features a beachside pool & world-class breakfast included.
3. Blanco Hideout Budget
Easily the best backpacker hostel in Railay featuring a pool, two bars, a restaurant, a gym, and great common areas for sunbathing and meeting other travelers.
After Tham Phra Nang Nai: More Things to Do at Railay
I hope you’ve enjoyed this quick guide to visiting the Diamond Cave at Railay Beach, Thailand. Before you go, make sure to check out some of my other popular Krabi travel guides from the list below.
