Local fishermen leave intricate, colorful phallic carvings at the shrine to appease the spirit of the drowned princess.
The cave is part of a limestone karst system that formed millions of years ago when the area was a tropical reef.
The location is uniquely tied to traditional animistic beliefs that predate regional religious influences.
The sand in front of the cave is composed of limestone grit eroded from the surrounding karst cliffs.
Princess Cave, locally known as Tham Phra Nang, is a sea cave situated on the southern tip of the Railay Peninsula. The cave features a shrine dedicated to the mythical Princess Phra Nang, believed by local fishermen to be a powerful sea spirit. The interior is characterized by a high concentration of lingams, traditional Phallic symbols carved from wood and stone. These offerings are placed by locals to ensure safe passage at sea and fertility. The cave is embedded into a limestone karst formation directly facing the Andaman Sea. It is accessible via the sand at Phra Nang Beach. The surrounding cliff walls are prominent venues for international rock climbing.
The cave entrance framing the limestone formations and the turquoise sea background.
Visit during low tide to gain the best access to the cave entrance and the surrounding rock formations.
Bring your own shade and water, as there are no facilities directly inside the cave.
Be mindful of the local monkeys, which frequent the area and are known to snatch food from visitors.
Do not leave food visible, as macaques in the vicinity are aggressive toward visitors carrying bags.
Dress modestly as the site is considered sacred by the local fishing community; do not touch or remove the wooden carvings.
