Have you ever wondered what it would be like to climb a mountain with 1,237 steps and reach a temple that offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape? If you are looking for a spiritual adventure in Thailand, then you should not miss the tiger cave temple in Krabi, one of the most sacred and spectacular sites in the country.
The tiger cave temple, or Wat Tham Suea in Thai, is a Buddhist temple complex that is located about 10 kilometers from Krabi town. The temple is named after the legend that a tiger once lived in the cave and left its paw prints on the walls. The temple is also known for its huge golden Buddha statue, its meditation center, and its panoramic view of the Andaman Sea and the limestone cliffs.
In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know about the tiger cave temple in Krabi, including how to reach, when to visit, what to do, and where to stay near this amazing attraction.
How to Reach the Tiger Cave Temple
The tiger cave temple is situated in the Khiriwong Valley, about 10 kilometers from Krabi town and 15 kilometers from Krabi airport. There are several ways to reach the temple, depending on your budget, comfort, and convenience.
By Taxi: The easiest and fastest way to reach the temple is by taking a taxi from Krabi town or airport. The taxi fare is around 300 to 400 baht (9 to 12 USD) one way, and the journey takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also negotiate with the driver to wait for you at the temple and take you back for a fixed price.
By Bus: The cheapest way to reach the temple is by taking a local bus or songthaew (a converted pickup truck with benches) from Krabi town. The bus fare is around 50 baht (1.5 USD) one way, and the journey takes about 30 to 40 minutes. The bus stops at the main road near the temple entrance, and you have to walk for about 10 minutes to reach the temple complex.
By Motorbike: The most adventurous way to reach the temple is by renting a motorbike from Krabi town and driving yourself. The motorbike rental fee is around 200 to 300 baht (6 to 9 USD) per day, and the journey takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You can enjoy the scenic ride through the countryside and park your motorbike at the temple parking lot.
Best Time to Visit the Tiger Cave Temple
The weather and climate of Krabi can affect your experience at the tiger cave temple, so it is important to choose the best time to visit the temple. Krabi has three seasons: hot, rainy, and cool.
Hot season: The hot season lasts from March to May, and the temperature can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the least favorable time to visit the temple, as the heat and humidity can make the climb very exhausting and uncomfortable. However, if you visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon, you can avoid the peak heat and crowd.
Rainy season: The rainy season lasts from June to October, and the rainfall can be heavy and unpredictable. This is also not the best time to visit the temple, as the rain can make the steps slippery and dangerous. However, if you visit the temple on a clear day, you can enjoy the lush greenery and the fresh air.
Cool season: The cool season lasts from November to February, and the temperature ranges from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius (75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the most favorable time to visit the temple, as the weather is pleasant and dry. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect more crowd and higher prices.
The temple is open daily from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the best time of the day to visit the temple is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This way, you can avoid the midday sun and enjoy the sunrise or sunset from the top of the mountain.
Things to Do at the Tiger Cave Temple
The tiger cave temple is not just a temple, but a complex of caves, shrines, statues, and forests. There are many things to do at the temple, depending on your interest and fitness level.
Hiking: The main attraction and challenge of the temple is the hike to the summit, where you can see the giant golden Buddha statue and the breathtaking view of the surroundings. The hike involves climbing 1,237 steps, which are steep and uneven. The hike can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and stamina. The hike is not for the faint-hearted, but the reward is worth the effort.
Climbing: If you are looking for more adventure, you can also try the rock climbing route that leads to the summit. The route is located on the left side of the stairs, and it is marked with ropes and signs. The route is suitable for experienced climbers only, and you need to bring your own equipment and safety gear. The route can take up to two hours, and it offers a more thrilling and scenic way to reach the top.
Sightseeing: If you are not up for the hike or the climb, you can still enjoy the sightseeing at the temple complex. You can explore the various caves, shrines, and statues that are scattered around the area. You can see the tiger paw prints in the main cave, the reclining Buddha in the foothill cave, the naga (serpent) statues along the stairs, and the smaller Buddha statues on the summit. You can also admire the architecture and the art of the temple, which reflect the Thai and Chinese influences.
Photography: If you are a photography enthusiast, you will love the temple for its photogenic opportunities. You can capture the stunning view of the Andaman Sea and the limestone cliffs from the summit, the golden glow of the Buddha statue, the colorful details of the shrines and statues, and the natural beauty of the forests and flowers. You can also take some selfies or group photos to commemorate your visit.
Meditation: If you are looking for a spiritual experience, you can also join the meditation sessions at the temple. The temple is a renowned meditation center, where monks and visitors practice vipassana (insight) meditation. You can learn the basics of meditation from the monks, or join the retreats that are held regularly. You can also meditate on your own, in the caves or on the summit, and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the temple.
Places to Stay Near the Tiger Cave Temple
If you want to stay near the tiger cave temple, you have plenty of options to choose from, depending on your budget, comfort, and convenience. Some of the best hotels, resorts, and homestays near the temple, that we recommend are Pak-Up Hostel, The Fong Krabi Resort and Baan Suan Rimnam.
The tiger cave temple in Krabi is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Thailand. It is a place where you can experience the history, culture, and spirituality of Buddhism, as well as the beauty and adventure of nature. Whether you want to hike, climb, sightsee, photograph, or meditate, you will find something to enjoy and remember at the temple.
