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The Krabi Tiger Cave Temple is also called Wat Tham Sua in Thai. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. This is a Buddhist temple located in the north of Krabi. Krabi Tiger Cave is also popularly known for its tiger paw prints in the cave. The majestic Buddha statues and a particularly strenuous flight of stairs led to the temple. It offers visitors an excellent view of the limestone rocks surrounding Krabi on the ascend to the temple, making it the perfect destination for photos.
History Of Krabi Tiger Cave Temple
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The Krabi Tiger Cave Temple is a meditation centre with archaeological and historical significance. This Temple has a deep and ancient history dating back to 2518 BE. Jumnean Seelasattho, a Vipassana monk, wished to meditate in a cave. When he reached the cave, he witnessed a tiger who left paw prints that remained there. According to another popular legend, the cave belonged to an actual tiger. These myths are the apparent reason why the temple is called Wat Tham Sua in Thai. The temple complex consists of multiple statues of Lod Buddha and tigers. It was built in 1957 and has since been an important place of religious and tourist significance. Tropical rainforests, small mountains and other inaccessible caves surround the temple. The forests are known to be ‘mystical’ and often go unnoticed.
Must Read: Places In Krabi
Ascend To The Temple
Image Credit: Maxim Kozlenko for Wikimedia Commons
The Krabi Tiger Cave Temple is located at a height of 278 m and, therefore, has a steep staircase with 1237 steps. While the ascent is seen as challenging by some, the hike is seen as a source of adventure by most tourists. The ascend offers unforgettable views of the nearby forests and limestone caves that can be enjoyed at the various stop points along the way. In addition, once at the top, visitors are met with stunning views of nearby surroundings. The temple terrace has a large statue of a golden Buddha, which can be enjoyed up close and taken photos with. Many visitors also take the day to stay at the meditation centre and enjoy the views of the sunset the temple offers.
The usual walking time up to the temple is approximately forty minutes to an hour. The path has rest stops on the way, so visitors can take breaks between their climbs to avoid exhaustion.
Reaching the Temple
Image Credit: Maxim Kozlenko for Wikimedia Commons
Visitors looking to visit the Krabi Tiger Cave Temple usually seek nearby accommodations for convenience. Towns such as Krabi Town and Ao Nang have multiple budget-friendly accommodations that are ideal as a starting point. These include hostels and hotels, which are perfect for solo travellers and families alike.
Locals suggest private taxis from Krabi Town and Ao Nang, which are affordable and also take you back to the pickup spot. Shared taxis and self-driven scooters are good alternatives for travellers looking for more budget-friendly options.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Krabi
Tips For A Comfortable Visit
Image Credit: Maxim Kozlenko for Wikimedia Commons
Since the Krabi Tiger Cave Temple is a Buddhist monastery, modesty is expected of visitor’s clothing.
The top of the temple has an observation deck where visitors are asked to remove their shoes before entering.
- The temple is open all day, and visitors staying in the complex at night are reportedly stargazing from the top. The entrance to the temple is free of cost. However, the actual tiger cave requires a donation of 40 baht to enter.
- The best time to visit the Tiger Cave Temple is early morning and late afternoon. The sun is not too strong at this time, making the ascend much easier. In addition, sunsets are a beautiful time to visit, and the views offered by the sky and surroundings make for a memorable trek.
- Visitors suggest bringing enough drinking water since the ascent tends to get exhausting even for athletes, and also, the descent from the temple is challenging.
- It is advised that visitors wear sports shoes as they make the ascend much easier.
- If you plan to descend from the temple after sunset, bring headlamps with you, as the downhill terrain is difficult to navigate without assistance.
Further Read: Wat Mahathat In Thailand
Cover Image Source: Vyacheslav Argenberg for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Krabi Tiger Cave Temple
What is the Tiger Cave Temple?
The Tiger Cave Temple, or Wat Tham Sua, is a famous Buddhist temple located in Krabi, Thailand. Known for its stunning views and the tiger paw prints in the cave, it attracts tourists and pilgrims. The temple complex includes caves, forest areas, and a tall staircase leading to a summit with a giant Buddha statue.
Why is it called the Tiger Cave Temple?
The temple gets its name from a legend that tigers once lived and roamed in the cave, and there are tiger paw prints on the walls. The cave has a natural formation resembles a tiger’s paw.
How many steps are there to reach the summit?
To reach the summit, visitors must climb 1,260 steps. The climb is challenging but rewarding, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Andaman Sea.
Are there any facilities or amenities at the temple?
Yes, the temple complex has several amenities including restrooms, a small café, and shops selling refreshments and souvenirs. There are also areas for meditation and spiritual activities. Monks live and practice at the temple, and visitors can observe their daily routines.
What one should expect at the temple?
Visitors should be prepared for a physically demanding experience, especially if they choose to climb the 1,237 steps to the hilltop shrine. The climb can be strenuous but offers rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The temple grounds feature a large golden Buddha statue, various caves, and smaller shrines. It’s a place of active worship, so visitors should dress modestly and respect the religious practices observed by monks and local devotees.
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