A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Katoomba for Families, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Ao Nang or Katoomba?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Ao Nang or Katoomba? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ao Nang

Ao Nang is a accessible, popular, and beachfront town. Ao Nang is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Ao Nang travel costs.

Katoomba

Katoomba is a breathtaking , stunning, and peaceful town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Katoomba is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums. See Katoomba travel costs.

Ao Nang and Katoomba: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Katoomba?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ao Nang than Katoomba, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ao Nang is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Katoomba is more popular for its museums and attractions, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Ao Nang is well known for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. Also, Ao Nang is famous for the Island Boat Tours. Katoomba is well known for its natural scenery, beautiful hikes, and its location in the Blue Mountains.

How is Ao Nang different from Katoomba?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Katoomba and Ao Nang. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ao Nang or Katoomba?

Katoomba is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Ao Nang is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Katoomba. For many, the town is used as a base for exploring the Blue Mountains. Scenic World is a great way to take in the highlights. It's also fun to check out the local street art.

Ao Nang offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most of the fun of this town is the beach setting and easy access to natural beauty. If you're looking for a temple, you can check out nearby Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cavee Temple).

Is the Food Better in Ao Nang or Katoomba? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Ao Nang and Katoomba offer a number of notable restaurants to choose from.

Ao Nang is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are plenty of restaurants that are vying for your business. The food is the typical Thai cuisine as well as international options like pizza and burgers.

Katoomba offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Many of the restaurants work hard to support local farmers and suppliers. You'll find local ingredients and homemade meals. The restaurant scene is growing, but many restaurants are still affiliated with hotels and tourist attractions.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba Better for Nightlife?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife and partying.

Ao Nang offers plenty to do in the evening. It has some of the best nightlife in the province of Krabi. There are many bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink and enjoy a fun night out.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Katoomba. It's not known for its nightlife scene, but there are some relaxed places where you can enjoy craft beer or see a show. Katoomba is the hub of nightlife in the Blue Mountains.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Katoomba is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Ao Nang to choose from. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Katoomba is not a resort destination.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Katoomba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Ao Nang. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Katoomba is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba Better for Beaches?

Ao Nang is a good destination for its beaches. However, Katoomba is not a beach destination.

Ao Nang offers a nice beach destination. Ao Nang Beach is the most popular beach near town. It is lined with longtail boats and there's often a crowd that keeps things busy and chaotic. Noppharat Thara Beach is popular with the locals and sees less tourists than Ao Nang Beach. It has golden sand and a beautiful setting.

Katoomba is not a beach destination.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba Better for Hiking?

Katoomba is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

People visit Katoomba specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Surrounded by the Blue Mountains, this town offers access to some of the area's best hikes. You'll see waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and lush landscapes.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Katoomba?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Ao Nang and Katoomba.

Ao Nang has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Katoomba is a great destination for shopping. There are local markets and boutiques where you can pick up local items and handicrafts.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba More Beautiful?

Katoomba is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Katoomba is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's a town surrounded by natural beauty. It offers easy access to breathtaking views and impressive hikes through the Blue Mountains.

Ao Nang is a gorgeous place to visit. The surrounding area is filled with stunning beauty and wonderful excursions.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba Better for Families?

Katoomba is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Katoomba is a very family-friendly destination. The surrounding Blue Mountains are filled with activities for the whole family. Scenic World is a highlight with its cable cars and skyway. There are also gardens, hiking trails, and cultural centers. Kids who love trains will enjoy Valley Heights Locomotive Depot Heritage Museum.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ao Nang. The sandy beaches are great for kids. This is also a nice base if you want to take day trips to Railay Beach and other nearby areas.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba Better for Couples?

Katoomba is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Katoomba makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are world class gardens like the Everglades Gardens, restaurants where you can enjoy high tea with a view, as well as hikes that will take your breath away. For the truly adventurous, there are also helicopter tours.

Ao Nang is a nice destination for couples. The area is filled with amazing natural beauty and stunning beaches. You can use Ao Nang as a base for exploring the many impressive areas that aren't far away.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang and Katoomba are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Ao Nang. There are hostels and budget accommodation in abundance in the area. Ao Nang also has some of the best nightlife in Krabi, which attracts a younger crowd.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Katoomba. There are hostels in the area, as well as camping opportunities. Backpackers will appreciate the scenic beauty and natural setting.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Ao Nang and Katoomba.

Ao Nang has some public transit options. Tuk tuks or renting a motorbike are your best bet for reaching places quickly.

You'll find some public transit in Katoomba, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are public buses through the Blue Mountains but it's easier to explore in depth if you have your own car.

Is Ao Nang or Katoomba a more walkable city?

Ao Nang is a well-known place for its walkability. Also, Katoomba is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its high level of walkability.

Ao Nang is very walkable. It's a small town, so most places can be reached on foot.

Katoomba is a somewhat walkable place. The town itself is relatively walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Katoomba Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Katoomba or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Katoomba?

It's fun to spend time in either Ao Nang or Katoomba. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Katoomba due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 2-4 days is enough time in Katoomba.

Families should spend more time in Katoomba than Ao Nang. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Katoomba, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Katoomba than Ao Nang. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Katoomba that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ao Nang than Katoomba if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Ao Nang.

One day in Ao Nang or Katoomba?

The town of Ao Nang offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Katoomba is a small town with plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Ao Nang or Katoomba?

Ao Nang is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ao Nang, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Katoomba might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Katoomba has to offer.

Five days in Ao Nang or Katoomba?

Ao Nang is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Katoomba is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Ao Nang or Katoomba?

Ao Nang is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Katoomba. Since Katoomba is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in Thailand, The Best Budget Tours to Thailand, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Australia, and The Best Scuba Diving Tours in Australia.

When comparing the travel costs between Ao Nang and Katoomba, we can see that Katoomba is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Ao Nang is in Asia and Katoomba is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ao Nang Expensive? and Is Katoomba Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ao Nang or Katoomba?

Katoomba has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Ao Nang. When comparing the sizes of Ao Nang and Katoomba, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Ao Nang or Katoomba?

Katoomba has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Ao Nang experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Katoomba in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ao Nang as well as Katoomba. Ao Nang attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Katoomba because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ao Nang is a little warmer than Katoomba. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ao Nang in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Katoomba averages at about 24°C (74°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Katoomba. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ao Nang this time of the year. In the summer, Ao Nang often gets less sunshine than Katoombain January. Ao Nang gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 236 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Katoomba. Ao Nang receives a lot of rain in the summer. Ao Nang usually gets more rain in July than Katoombain January. Ao Nang gets 287 mm (11.3 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 105 mm (4.1 in) of rain this time of the year. August to October in Ao Nang is the rainy season.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Katoomba in the Autumn?

Both Katoomba and Ao Nang are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Ao Nang throughout the year. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Katoomba this time of year.

In October, Ao Nang is generally much warmer than Katoombain April. Daily temperatures in Ao Nang average around 27°C (81°F), and Katoomba fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Ao Nang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Katoomba during autumn. Ao Nang gets 181 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 195 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Ao Nang. In October, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Katoombain April. Ao Nang gets 304 mm (12 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Ao Nang is December to March. The rainy season in Ao Nang is August to October.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Katoomba in the Winter?

Both Katoomba and Ao Nang during the winter are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Ao Nang because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Katoomba for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ao Nang is much warmer than Katoomba in the winter. The daily temperature in Ao Nang averages around 28°C (82°F) in January, and Katoomba fluctuates around 11°C (51°F)in July.

In Katoomba, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ao Nang. In the winter, Ao Nang often gets more sunshine than Katoombain July. Ao Nang gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Katoomba receives 208 hours of full sun.

Ao Nang usually gets less rain in January than Katoombain July. Ao Nang gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year. December to March is the dry season in Ao Nang.

Should I visit Ao Nang or Katoomba in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ao Nang and Katoomba. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Ao Nang year-round. Also, many visitors come to Katoomba in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ao Nang is much warmer than Katoomba. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ao Nang in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Katoomba averages at about 18°C (64°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Katoomba this time of the year. In Ao Nang, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ao Nang usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Katoomba during spring. Ao Nang gets 249 hours of sunny skies, while Katoomba receives 240 hours of full sun in the spring.

Ao Nang gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Ao Nang usually receives more rain than Katoombain October. Ao Nang gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Katoomba receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Katoomba and Ao Nang