Khao Ngon Nak

Khao Ngon Nak, the Dragon Crest, rises above Tubkaek beach north of Ao Nang, and the trail is about 3.7 kilometres each way with roughly five hundred metres of ascent through forest, passing several viewpoints before ending on a bare rock spine looking out over Phang Nga Bay, the karst islands and the coast. It takes two to three hours return at a steady pace and is genuinely steep in sections, with roots, rock and rope-assisted stretches. It is the better of Krabi's two well-known climbs - the other being the Tiger Cave temple stairway - and takes a fraction of the visitors. Gates open early and close in the early afternoon, with rangers requiring walkers to be down by a set time, which is enforced. The final crest is exposed rock with a substantial drop and no barrier, and people sit on the edge for photographs. Start early: the heat by mid-morning is the main difficulty.

What you actually see

• The crest - a bare rock spine over Phang Nga Bay and the karst islands.
• The climb - 3.7 kilometres and about five hundred metres of ascent.
• The viewpoints - several on the way up before the final crest.
• The quiet - far fewer people than the Tiger Cave stairway.

When to go

November to April, starting as early as the gate opens - the heat later is the limiting factor. Rangers close the trail in the early afternoon and require walkers to be down.

Honest expectations

Steep with roots, rock and rope sections; not a stroll. The final crest is exposed with an unfenced drop. Gate hours are enforced and late starters are turned away. Very hot after mid-morning; carry water.

Nearby

Tubkaek beach is at the trailhead; Ao Nang and Railay are south.