We had the entire day to us. We didn’t want to head for another Island Hopping and it was too hot to relax on a beach. We rented a motorbike deciding to just drive and see where the day was taking us. While the husband was munching on his egg and cheese Pancake, I decided to browse through the popular destinations in Ao Nang and there it was- the Giant Catfish Farm!
The journey to the Giant Catfish farm was fantastic! The weather, the landscapes, the wind and the road were open to us to explore. The untouched nature added to its beauty and I could hear myself humming a favorite tune in the pillion seat. For a moment I wished that time would freeze. I didn’t want to go back. Not today, not ever.
Giant Catfish Farm, Krabi
The Giant Catfish farm is a hidden gem in Krabi. It is run by Nina and her family who is part of an NGO. Nina came to Thailand from Australia, some 30 odd years ago and this little farm was set up. The Thailand government helped her by offering the land and other necessities.
This farm is not a posh, out-of-the-world type of place. It is laid back and she has done everything to retain the natural beauty. You may feel that it is a little run down, but it’s like taking a stroll in the jungle with little animals to pet and fishes to feed.
After taking the first few steps, we were astounded to find out who our tour guide was!
Yes, this little lamb who would take us everywhere…
stop for a munch or two on the way…
demand for a feed…
a pet…
or patiently wait for us for hours as we fed the fishes and played like little children in the natural pool.
There is a crocodile and few tortoises (in a caged environment), hens, ducks, geese, rabbits, a pig and a little potbelly monkey. Many of these are donated animals which would probably be killed otherwise.
There are huge trees and tropical plants (each of them labeled), and small trails are made which will give you a jungle walking experience. There is a display of wild and rare orchids too.
Cross the rickety old wooden bridge and you can find small ponds of fishes including catfish, tilapia, arapaima, and much much more.
When you drop the fish food on the pond, you can find hundreds of them fighting to fetch it.
It is a sight to see huge catfishes come so close to you…
…and when you move your feet, the fishes move with you and kinda follow you on the pond!
The husband was thrilled to feed them for so long.
After the nature walk, grab a cup of coffee from the little riverside restaurant. Or take a dip in the ponds…
…and streams for a natural Jacuzzi-like experience.
Needless to say, I had so much fun.
Nina has made this farm with lots of love and care, preserving nature in its truest form. While many would feel it is not their cup of tea, we had a wonderful experience. Truly a gem for just 50 Baht per person, it will be a great day with your kids and a break for them from being glued to the Ipads and Iphones.
I miss everything- those little-handwritten boards, the fish feeding, our little tour-guide, the monkey and Nina’s warm welcoming smile.
We would’ve missed one of the most memorable day of our lives if we hadn’t dropped by her tiny abode – cross my heart. I hope you get to read this, Nina!
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STAY TUNED AS I WILL BE TALKING IN DETAIL ABOUT SOME OF THE EXOTIC ISLANDS AND SHOPPING, AND OTHER ATTRACTIONS THE PLACE HAS TO OFFER.
I am writing all about Thailand this April for the A to Z Challenge 2017. Thanks for all the love you’ve showered on this space! You can also check out my food blog for A to Z Indian Dishes to Die For.
Oh my god how cute is this!! I had come across huge catfish in Jaisalmer n was amazed at their size.
Nonchalant morning walk
Shalini recently posted…[N] Nonchalant morning walk on the beach in Fort Kochi |#atozchallenge 2017|
Lovely description and even lovelier pictures. Felt like we were walking through the farm ourselves..
What a nice place and how cute to have a little goat for a guide. Reminded me of a farm we have here called Staglands.
Suzy recently posted…Now and Then … #atozchallenge letter N @AprilA2Z
Nina’s Giant Catfish farm looks awesome! It would surely be a treat to visit. Love the handwritten warning about Rose:)
How is that goat leading you all??? How? How?
But seriously, loved the look of this place.
Roshan Radhakrishnan recently posted…Nurse Renee Hendrix… and all the Nurses around you #AtoZChallenge
Hahaha…the map of the place is incredible!! and the catfish with their mouth open are scary! I don’t know if I’d go near them!
Shubhangi @ The Little Princess
shubhangi srikanth recently posted…N – 5 ways to say NO!
Looks like a fun trip! Loved the images
Neha recently posted…Nasty
Sounds fun! The pictures didn’t load for me, sadly, but I’ve been to something similar. I imagine it was a lovely, tranquil day out.
Nick Wilford recently posted…A-Z Challenge 2017 – N is for Nettlesby
Wowwww! This is one awesome farm worth visiting. Added to my bucket list ?
Roma recently posted…New Beginning ~ Vol 14 of Priyam Meer’s Eternal Love Tale
Such a treasure this! That natural jaccuzi looks like a dream 🙂
Soumya recently posted…N: The Night Circus – Book Review #AToZChallenge
I can imagine just how special a treat this would have been! These hidden gems are the absolute best. And I have to say, I’m in love with your tour guide! 😉
Modern Gypsy recently posted…Nail those paints: the wonderful world of acrylics
Aww that lamb took you around! OMG! So cute!
Sreesha recently posted…Once Upon a Playground Rainy | #AtoZChallenge
That looks like a perfect place for me. I love such unexplored places where one can really absorb the beauty around. Lovely pictures, Shalini!
Parul Thakur recently posted…R for Running a marathon #AtoZChallenge