Phi Hua To Cave (Phi Hua To Cave) or locally known as “Skull Cave” is one of the most important archaeological sites in Krabi Province. The cave is located within Than Bok Khorani National Park, surrounded by the rich mangrove ecosystem of Ao Luek District.

The cave sits on a massive limestone mountain formed millions of years ago and is surrounded by natural canals and mangrove forests. Visitors must travel by kayak or long-tail boat through winding waterways, making the journey one of the most beautiful eco-tourism experiences in Krabi.

Origin of the Name “Phi Hua To”

The name “Phi Hua To” literally means “Big-Headed Ghost,” originating from the discovery of an unusually large ancient human skull found inside the cave many years ago. Local villagers later adopted this name, and it eventually became the cave’s official identity.

Archaeologists have also discovered pottery fragments, animal bones, stone tools, and traces of prehistoric human settlements, suggesting that the cave once served as a shelter, refuge, and ceremonial site for ancient coastal communities along the Andaman Sea.

Archaeological Importance

Phi Hua To Cave is considered one of the most significant prehistoric rock painting sites in Southern Thailand and serves as crucial evidence of ancient human life along the Andaman coastline.

Researchers have found similarities between the cave paintings here and prehistoric art sites in Phang Nga and Satun provinces, indicating possible connections among ancient coastal communities that lived throughout Southern Thailand thousands of years ago.

Ancient Paintings Over 2,000 Years Old

The cave’s most remarkable feature is its collection of more than 200 prehistoric paintings, estimated to be around 2,000-3,000 years old, spread across the cave walls and ceilings.

Most paintings were created using natural red pigments derived from minerals such as red ochre and iron oxide, mixed with tree resin or animal fat to ensure long-lasting durability.

The artwork vividly reflects the lifestyle of prehistoric people, including scenes of hunters, boats, marine animals, fish, birds, monkeys, crocodiles, geometric patterns, and mysterious symbols that remain partially unexplained.

The Famous “Big-Headed Human” Painting

One of the cave’s most iconic paintings is the “big-headed human” or horned human figure. The image appears to depict a person wearing a tall headdress or horns extending from the head, with striped patterns across the body. Many visitors compare its appearance to that of an “alien figure.”

This painting has become a symbolic emblem of Ao Luek District and is recognized as one of Thailand’s most famous prehistoric rock art images. Some scholars believe the figure may represent a spiritual leader, shaman, or ritual associated with nature and the afterlife.

Karst Landscape Formation

The Ao Luek region and much of Krabi are characterized by dramatic Karst Landscapes, formed through millions of years of erosion caused by rainwater and seawater.

This geological process created steep limestone cliffs, cave tunnels, sinkholes, rock chambers, and natural passageways that define the iconic scenery of Thailand’s Andaman coast.

Because of this unique terrain, Ao Luek has become a world-renowned destination for nature lovers and kayaking enthusiasts.

Interior Features of the Cave

Inside, the cave is divided into several spacious chambers with excellent natural ventilation and sunlight reaching many sections, allowing visitors to clearly observe the ancient paintings.

The cave walls display natural mineral colors such as red, brown, yellow, and black, along with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites formed naturally over thousands of years.

The atmosphere inside feels mysterious, peaceful, and distinctly different from ordinary tourist caves.

Popular Photography Spots

The cave and surrounding area offer many impressive photo locations, including:

• The cave entrance viewpoint overlooking mangrove forests and limestone mountains
• The famous big-headed human painting
• The kayaking route through mangrove tunnels
• Morning sunlight shining through the cave ceiling
• Reflections on the water surface during high tide

Kayaking Activities

One of the most popular activities here is nature kayaking, considered the highlight of visiting Phi Hua To Cave.

Visitors can paddle through mangrove tunnels, natural canals, and uniquely shaped limestone mountains while enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Nearby attractions along the route include Tham Lod Nuea, Tham Lod Tai, Tham Chao Le, and Khao Karos, all famous for their geological beauty and natural scenery.

Mangrove Ecosystem

The surrounding area is part of a highly fertile mangrove ecosystem inhabited by various wildlife species such as mudskippers, mangrove crabs, kingfishers, egrets, and macaques.

During low tide, visitors can closely observe large mangrove root systems and numerous coastal organisms, making the area ideal for eco-tourism and environmental study.

Recommended Visiting Time and Duration

A typical visit to Phi Hua To Cave takes around 1.5-3 hours, depending on the chosen activities and kayaking routes. Full kayaking programs covering multiple locations may require half a day.

The best time to visit is between November and April, when the sea is calm and the weather is ideal for kayaking. During the rainy season, the mangrove forest becomes especially lush and vibrant despite occasional rainfall.

Safety Recommendations

• Always wear a life jacket while kayaking
• Be cautious of slippery surfaces inside the cave, especially during high tide
• Do not touch or damage the prehistoric paintings
• Check weather and tide conditions before traveling
• Children should always be closely supervised during kayaking activities

The Charm of Unseen Krabi

Today, Phi Hua To Cave is regarded as one of Krabi’s most important historical and natural attractions because it perfectly combines archaeological value, prehistoric art, dramatic Karst landscapes, and rich mangrove ecosystems in one destination.

The cave is ideal for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking a truly unique side of Unseen Krabi beyond the province’s famous beaches and islands.

• From Krabi Town, take Highway No. 4 (Phet Kasem Road) toward Ao Luek District. At Ao Luek intersection, continue toward Bor Thor Pier, located about 7 kilometers from Than Bok Khorani National Park.

• Visitors can park at the pier and rent either a kayak or long-tail boat to paddle through natural canals and mangrove forests toward the cave. The trip usually takes around 20-40 minutes, depending on water levels and the type of boat used.

• Renting a kayak is highly recommended for the best nature experience

• Nearby attractions such as Tham Lod Nuea, Tham Lod Tai, and Khao Karos can be visited along the same route

• Bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and waterproof bag for phones or cameras

• Morning visits or high tide periods are ideal because the weather is cooler and the water level is better for kayaking

• Wear non-slip shoes or sandals because some cave areas may be wet and slippery

• Hiring a local guide is recommended for deeper understanding of the cave paintings and local history

• During the rainy season, the scenery becomes especially green and beautiful, but weather and tides should be checked beforehand

Admission Fees:

Thai Visitors

• Adults: 60 THB
• Children: 30 THB

Foreign Visitors

• Adults: 300 THB
• Children: 150 THB
  (Fees are included in the entrance fee for Than Bok Khorani National Park)

Additional kayak rental fees are approximately 300-500 THB per kayak, while long-tail boat prices vary depending on the number of passengers and selected routes.

Opening Hours:

• Open daily from 08:30 AM – 04:30 PM

• The best visiting hours are during the morning until early afternoon when temperatures are cooler and water levels are ideal for entering the cave by boat.