| A great combination especially when they all meet | | | | is usually included when you hire a guide but it's |
| in Thailand. Owing to plentiful climbs, in a truly | | | | also available for rent for those who travel light. |
| exotic location, Thailand is fast gaining a reputation | | | | Climbing grades start at 6a, (5.10 YDS). Below |
| as a can't-miss climbing destination. The exchange | | | | this, there are only a handful of climbs and most |
| rate is favorable with many of the major | | | | are getting a bit polished due to their popularity. |
| currencies and living expenses are cheap | | | | No need for a natural gear rack. This is pure sport |
| compared to Western prices. | | | | climbing fun, with a mix of bolts and natural |
| Locations | | | | thread runners. |
| There are two main climbing areas. One located in | | | | West Railay (sunset side) is the most upscale, |
| the northwest, just outside of the city of Chang | | | | including some truly fantastic homes for rent at |
| Mai which is the second largest city in Thailand. | | | | The Railay Beach Club. East Railay is more |
| Visit the local climbing shops to inquire about how | | | | middle-of-the-road, where you will find lots of |
| and where to start. The area has over 100 climbs | | | | mid-priced accommodations. Tonsai is popular with |
| with a good portion of them at easier grades (for | | | | the budget backpacker, with super cheap bamboo |
| Thailand). No beaches here but the climate, in high | | | | huts up the hillside. You can walk around to every |
| season (Nov.-April), can be cooler than further | | | | beach. Tonsai is the furthest; about 20 minutes |
| south. | | | | walk from East Railay. |
| The second major area is at Railay beach. | | | | What else to do |
| Located in southern Thailand, near to Krabi Town, | | | | There are plenty of activities to fill your rest |
| it enjoys a location on the fabulous Andaman Sea. | | | | days. Sea kayaks are available for rent and most |
| The Railay area has an East and West beach plus | | | | will include snorkeling gear. West Railay and |
| Tonsai beach. Accessible only by boat, it's 20 | | | | Phranang beach are the best for swimming and |
| minutes via longtail boat from Krabi Town to East | | | | sunbathing. For those with more energy, there |
| Railay. From Au Nong, it's about 10 minutes to | | | | are a few hikes worth taking, including one to a |
| West Railay and Tonsai. | | | | hidden lagoon. Don't do this hike in the rain though. |
| No vehicular traffic and a remote feel keeps the | | | | The red clay soil turns into slick plastic when wet |
| scene somewhat low-key. You won't find any of | | | | and the hike down is quite steep. Longtail boats |
| the 'cheese' that some other Thailand hotspots | | | | are available for hire to visit the many beautiful |
| are famous for. | | | | islands in the area. Island trips usually include lunch |
| The Climbing | | | | and snorkeling gear. |
| Climbing ranges from directly off the beach, to | | | | When to go |
| fantastic, fully bolted, multi-pitch climbs back in the | | | | The high season runs from mid November to the |
| jungle. There are a variety of guidebooks available | | | | end of April. Prices are higher during this time and |
| and it would be wise to read at least one of | | | | are reduced as much as half in the low season. |
| these to learn about the climbs and the fixed | | | | Low season starts in May and is generally rainier, |
| gear. The environment here is harsh on metal, so | | | | but you can always find some time to climb |
| knowing which bolts are best to clip, is very good | | | | regardless of the month. The summer |
| for your health. | | | | (May-September) may even be cooler than the |
| There are numerous climbing shops around and | | | | high season (November to April). Climbing in the |
| you can hire a guide for a half day or a week or | | | | early morning is best during the hottest months, |
| more. It may be best to spend some time | | | | followed by a relaxing afternoon. |
| walking around the crags to see the guides in | | | | If climbing is your passion and you enjoy a |
| action. They're easy to spot as they are usually | | | | relaxed atmosphere in an exotic locale. Then, |
| the ones shouting directions. Some are quieter | | | | Thailand must be on your to-do list. Another plus - |
| than others. Choose one that fits your style. Gear | | | | the food is certainly as delicious as the climbing! |