Brief History of Tiger Cave Temple, Krabi

Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) has a rich history dating back to 1975. During this time, a monk who practised Vipassana meditation named Jumnean Seelasettho chose this location for his meditation. While meditating, he reported seeing tigers around the cave, hence the name Tiger Cave Temple. Legends also tell of a large tiger that once lived within the cave.

How to get to Tiger Cave Temple?

The easiest way to reach Krabi’s Tiger Cave Temple is by hiring a taxi or tuk-tuk from Krabi town or Ao Nang. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes from Ao Nang and 10-15min from Krabi town.

You can also get there by scooter, but keep in mind that you’ll need to ride on larger highways to reach the destination.

We used Grab to travel from our hotel in Ao Nang to the temple and back. Please note that Grab is not permitted to pick up passengers directly from the temple area. It is advisable to walk a short distance and request a Grab from there. Our Grab driver accepted our request from the temple’s parking spot but asked us to walk to the road, which was just a 2-minute walk. The cost of Grab was 280 baht.

Tip! Another option is to join a tour of Tiger Cave Temple. Many tours also include visits to emerald pools and hot springs after visiting Tiger Cave Temple.

How much does it cost to go to the Tiger Cave Temple in Krabi?

The entrance fee to Tiger Cave Temple is free, however, donations are greatly appreciated. You can donate any amount you wish.

What is the Dress Code for the Tiger Cave Temple?

When visiting Tiger Cave Temple, it is important to dress respectfully. As this is a religious sacred site, men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing revealing clothing such as tank tops, shorts or dresses above the knees.

Remember to also take off your shoes before entering the temple buildings.

Tip! During the hike, you don’t need to have your knees and shoulders covered. You can wear shorts and sports tops.

Katariina opted for sports shorts and a sports top, while also bringing a long skirt and t-shirt for the temple area. This turned out to be a practical and wise choice, considering how hot it can get during the hike.

Best time to visit Tiger Cave Temple

The best time to visit Tiger Cave Temple is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. This way, you can avoid the intense midday heat and crowds.

We visited during the hottest time of the day, around midday. It was extremely hot, which made the hike more challenging. Although there is some shade along the trail, we would recommend going earlier or later in the afternoon for a more comfortable experience.

Hiking to Tiger Cave Temple

The hike to Tiger Cave Temple is challenging, with 1260 steps to the top. However, it is worth the effort for the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere at the top.

Is the Tiger Cave Temple hike hard?

We are not going to lie, the hike up is definitely challenging. Some stairs are also really steep. If you have knee problems, this hike might not be for you. We started to feel some pain in our knees while walking back down.

However, the hike is definitely doable. People of all ages and fitness levels were able to make it up without any issues.

How long does it take to climb Tiger Cave Temple?

You can reach the summit in 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your fitness level. The record time to reach the top is 10 minutes! It will take an additional 15-30 minutes to return back down.

Tip! Bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes with good traction. The trail can be slippery in some areas, especially after rain.

At the top of the mountain

Once you reach the top of Tiger Cave Temple, take a moment to catch your breath and admire the stunning views. You will also find a number of golden Buddha statues and intricate shrines.

Take some time to appreciate the Buddhist culture and pay respects at this holy site. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing any offerings or prayer rituals taking place.

Tip! There are no items available for purchase at the top of Tiger Cave Temple, so make sure to bring enough water and some snacks if needed. Also, be cautious of the monkeys as they may try to grab your snacks!

Visit the Tiger Cave, Krabi

The Tiger Cave, located at the base of the mountain, is equally fascinating and offers a completely different experience than the top. As you step into the cool shadow of the cave, you’re immediately struck by the quiet reverence that hangs in the air.

The cave gets its name from a legendary tiger that lived within its depths, and some say you can still see tiger paw prints on the cave walls.

Remember to respect the sanctity of the space during your visit. Avoid loud conversations, and if you wish to take photographs, do so discreetly without using flash.

The Tiger Cave is not just a tourist spot but a sacred Buddhist site, and preserving its serenity is crucial. You can see Buddhist monks meditating and paying respects here, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the cave.

Also, given the cave’s natural inhabitants, be vigilant about your belongings. Monkeys are known to frequent the area, and while adorable, they can be quite mischievous. Keep your snacks and small personal items securely packed away to avoid any unwanted attention from these furry locals.

Is Tiger Cave Temple worth visiting?

Absolutely! Despite the challenging hike, Tiger Cave Temple is definitely worth visiting.

The views alone make it a must-see attraction in Krabi. Additionally, the peaceful atmosphere and cultural significance of this site make it a unique experience that should not be missed.

Don’t let the difficulty level deter you from visiting this amazing place! Just take your time, stay hydrated, and enjoy the journey to the top.

Other attractions nearby

If you have some extra time, there are a few other attractions worth checking out near Tiger Cave Temple. Just a short drive away, you can visit the Emerald Pool and Hot Springs, which offer a refreshing break from the hiking and allow you to relax in nature.