The Emerald Pool (also known as Sa Morakot) in Krabi, Thailand, is a remarkable natural wonder that has been part of the local landscape for millennia. However, the history of tourism in the area is much more recent. Nestled within the lush jungles of the Thung Teao Forest Natural Park, the Emerald Pool took its place on the tourist map primarily in the late 20th century as Thailand's tourism industry began to flourish.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Krabi started to emerge as a tourist destination, with the appeal of its incredible natural beauty, including white sandy beaches, clear waters, and the iconic limestone cliffs. During this period, the infrastructure for supporting tourism such as transportation, accommodations, and local guides started developing, allowing more visitors to discover the natural attractions of the region.
The Emerald Pool’s unique vibrancy and pristine environment led to its inclusion in protected area lists, which also further boosted its appeal to eco-conscious travelers. The surrounding forest was declared a national park, ensuring the conservation of the area's biodiversity and limiting overdevelopment that could harm the pool's delicate ecosystem.
As tourism in Thailand skyrocketed in the 2000s, with the country becoming a must-visit destination for backpackers, honeymooners, and cultural enthusiasts, Krabi and the Emerald Pool benefitted from this influx. Accessibility improvements like better roads and local tours helped more visitors to include the pool in their itineraries.
In recent years, a growing trend in sustainable and responsible tourism has seen the Emerald Pool maintain its status as a highly regarded natural attraction. Visitors are attracted to the pool's ethereal beauty and the opportunity for swimming in its warm, mineral-rich waters, which are naturally heated by the earth's crust.
Furthermore, the health and wellness tourism trend has dovetailed nicely with the Emerald Pool's tranquil and rejuvenating environment, drawing visitors seeking a serene escape from the hustle of modern life.
Like many tourist destinations around the world, Krabi's Emerald Pool felt the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic with a significant drop in visitors. However, as Thailand reopens and international travel resumes, there has been a concerted effort to revitalize tourism with a focus on safety and sustainability, which aligns well with the existing principles governing the pool's use and management.
The continued appeal of the Emerald Pool in Krabi exemplifies Thailand's rich offering of natural attractions and a strong commitment to preserving such sites while accommodating growing tourism interests.