A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ao Nang vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

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

Should I visit Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park? 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. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a breathtaking, undeveloped, and remote national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Ao Nang and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ao Nang. Although Ao Nang and Mount Aspiring National Park are both popular with visitors, Ao Nang has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ao Nang is more popular for its museums & sights, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Ao Nang is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is popular for its easy access to nearby natural beauty. It is also home to the Island Boat Tours. Mount Aspiring National Park is popular for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Ao Nang different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Ao Nang is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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).

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Ao Nang is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Ao Nang. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Ao Nang is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

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.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Resorts?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Ao Nang is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a resort destination.

Ao Nang is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. It's a resort town with many diverse places to choose from, including budget-friendly and more upscale.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Ao Nang is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Ao Nang to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are plenty of dive shops that offer both snorkeling and dive excursions to nearby areas.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Beaches?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Ao Nang is a nice place to visit for the beache. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

Ao Nang has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for its hiking trails. However, Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.

People visit Mount Aspiring National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Ao Nang is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Ao Nang is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Ao Nang offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find some of the best shopping in the province of Krabi along Catalunya Walking Street in Ao Nang.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Mount Aspiring National Park. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a very popular place for couples. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

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 Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ao Nang is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Mount Aspiring National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Is Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Ao Nang is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Ao Nang
Mount Aspiring National Park

Ao Nang is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Mount Aspiring National Park is a somewhat walkable town. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.


For even more information, also check out Is Ao Nang Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Ao Nang?

How long in Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park than Ao Nang because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Ao Nang, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ao Nang than Mount Aspiring National Park 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.


  • How many days in Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ao Nang 2-3 
    Mount Aspiring National Park  2-5

One day in Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The popular destination of Ao Nang offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ao Nang. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ao Nang has to offer.

In Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find . 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 Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer.

Five days in Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Ao Nang is a fun place to experience. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mount Aspiring National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the popular town of Ao Nang. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It offers something for everyone. One week 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mount Aspiring National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mount Aspiring National Park. 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, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Mount Aspiring National Park or Ao Nang?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ao Nang is $121, while the average daily cost in Mount Aspiring National Park is $116. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ao Nang and Mount Aspiring National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ao Nang $58
    Mount Aspiring National Park $63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ao Nang $116
    Mount Aspiring National Park $126
Compare Hotels in Ao Nang and Mount Aspiring National Park

Looking for a hotel in Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park ? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ao Nang


Hotels in Mount Aspiring National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ao Nang Hotel Prices and Mount Aspiring National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ao Nang $63
    Mount Aspiring National Park $53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ao Nang

Also for Ao Nang, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Eco-Transfer: One-way Ao Nang - Downtown, Krabi: $20
  • Private Eco-Transfer: One-way Ao Nang - Bus Station, Krabi: $20
  • Krabi Airport Private One-Way SUV Transfer: $24
  • Private SUV-Transfer: One-way Ao Nang - Bus Statation: $24
  • Krabi: Ao Nang To/From Phi Phi By Fast Speed Boat Transfer: $27
  • Krabi ATV Extreme Experience with Transfer and Adventure: $28
  • One way Private transfer from Krabi airport to Ao Nang: $33
  • Aonang : Ferry Transfer from Aonang to Ko Lanta: $35
  • Krabi:Speedboat Transfer to Phi Phi Islands: $45
  • Phuket: Speedboat Transfer to Ao Nang or Railay via Ko Yao: $45
  • Ko Lanta: Speed Boat Transfer Direct to Aonang: $56
  • Krabi: Private Transfer Between Ao Nang Area and Ko Lanta: $113

Is it cheaper to fly into Ao Nang or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Prices for flights to both Mount Aspiring National Park and Ao Nang change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ao Nang $28
    Mount Aspiring National Park $20

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ao Nang

For Ao Nang, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Krabi: 7-Island Sunset & Dinner - Join tour by Longtail boat: $42
  • Krabi: Ya's Cookery Late Afternoon Thai Cooking Class: $43
  • Krabi : Authentic Thai Cooking Class with Market Tour: $45
  • Krabi: Morning/Afternoon Thai Cooking Class at Ya's Cookery: $52
  • Half Day Thai Cooking Class in Ao Nang, Krabi: $56
  • Krabi 7 Island Sunset by Luxury Vintage Boat With BBQ Dinner: $142

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ao Nang $12
    Mount Aspiring National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Ao Nang

For Ao Nang, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Krabi: South Kayak Klong Root Kayaking Tour: $18
  • Krabi ATV adventure drive 30mins: $24
  • Krabi kayaking and swimming clongrood Tour: $25
  • Ao Nang Kayak Adventure: Explore the Stunning Flooded Forest: $27
  • Krabi 4 Island One Day Tour by Speed boat or Longtail boat: $27
  • ATV adventure 30 mins drive: $30
  • Kayak Tour in Krabi Mangrove Forest with Lunch: $30
  • Krabi: ATV adventure and extreme: $30
  • Krabi: Saitai Mountain Tail ATV Adventure: $30
  • Kayaking klongroot and atv adventure: $35
  • Krabi: Tiger Cave, Hot Springs and Emerald Pool Jungle Tour: $36
  • ATV adventure and achery (1้hour ): $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ao Nang $17
    Mount Aspiring National Park $5.44

Sample the Local Flavors in Ao Nang

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Ao Nang:

  • Guided Bar Crawl with Shots and a T-Shirt: $20


When comparing the travel costs between Ao Nang and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Ao Nang 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 Mount Aspiring National Park 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 Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.