Princess Cave (Thung Phra Nang Nai or Princess Cave) is one of the most mysterious and revered landmarks on Phra Nang Beach, located near the resort town of Ao Nang in Krabi Province, Thailand. According to local legend, centuries ago, a ship carrying an Indian princess wrecked here during a storm. The violent waves smashed the vessel against the rocks, and the princess was washed ashore, where she perished.
Another version of the legend tells of a princess who was the wife of a fisherman. After he went to sea and never returned, she waited for him in the cave for so long that she eventually transformed into a guardian spirit of sailors and fishermen. Since then, locals and seafarers have brought offerings to her, asking for protection and good fortune on their voyages.
The Two Sacred Princess Caves on the Beach
At the foot of a towering limestone cliff on Phra Nang Beach, two small caves lie hidden beneath overhanging stalactites.
• The Main Princess Cave – A small grotto containing wooden phallic symbols (lingams) covered in gold leaf. These offerings symbolize fertility and luck. Inside, there is also an altar with incense, flowers, and other devotional items.
• The Second Cave – Smaller but equally revered, this cave sometimes houses Buddha statues and other religious objects.
Although the Princess Cave on Phra Nang Beach is formally linked to ancient animist beliefs, it has evolved into a site of syncretic worship, blending Hindu, Buddhist, and folk traditions. Local fishermen and Thai worshippers pray to the spirit of the princess here, while tourists leave offerings and make wishes.
The Massive Karst Cave Behind the Cliff
Beyond the two small beach caves lies a large karst cave accessible only during low tide. The entrance is on the western side of the cliff. During the dry season (November–April), the cave remains accessible even at high tide due to air pockets inside.
Inside, visitors find a labyrinth of narrow passages, stalactites, and stalagmites, with crevices allowing shafts of light to filter through. A passage leads to a hidden lagoon with crystal-clear water, enclosed by sheer cliffs. During the rainy season (May–October), the cave is often flooded, and the entrance becomes dangerous due to strong waves and slippery rocks.
Princess Cave is more than just a beautiful site—it is a true symbol of Krabi’s cultural heritage. Here, legend, religion, and nature intertwine, creating an aura of mystery. Visiting the cave leaves an unforgettable impression, especially if one ventures into the vast karst cavern and discovers the hidden lagoon.
