The Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) is one of the most famous and sacred Buddhist sites in Krabi, Thailand. Located about 3 km northeast of Krabi Town, this temple is known for its stunning views, spiritual significance, and challenging climb.
Golden Buddha Statue
At the base of the temple, you’ll find a huge golden Buddha statue and a peaceful monastery where monks meditate.
Tiger Paw Print Cave
The temple gets its name from a cave that supposedly has a tiger paw print on its walls (though some say it resembles a tiger’s shape).
1,237-Step Climb to the Summit
The main attraction is the steep staircase leading to a mountain peak, offering breathtaking 360° views of Krabi’s lush forests and limestone cliffs.
The climb is strenuous (takes about 30-60 minutes) but rewarding.
Sacred Relics & Meditation Caves
The temple complex has several caves with Buddhist shrines, meditation spots, and stalactite/stalagmite formations.
Monkey Encounters
Like many Thai temples, monkeys roam freely—keep your belongings secure!
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.
Dress Code: Cover shoulders and knees (sarongs available for rent).
Footwear: Remove shoes in sacred areas.
Water & Snacks: Bring hydration for the climb.
Fitness Level: The climb is tough; not recommended for those with knee problems.
From Krabi Town: ~10-15 min by taxi/tuk-tuk (costs ~150-300 THB).
From Ao Nang: ~30-40 min drive.
Free, but donations are appreciated.
Spiritual experience
Panoramic views of Krabi
Unique mix of nature and culture
Getting to Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) from Krabi Town or Ao Nang is straightforward. Here are the best options:
Fastest & most convenient (30-40 mins from Krabi Town, 20-30 mins from Ao Nang).
Cost: ~400–600 THB (one way) from Krabi Town, ~500–800 THB from Ao Nang.
Tip: Use Grab (ride-hailing app) or arrange a round-trip taxi with waiting time.
Cheaper but slower (stops frequently).
From Krabi Town: Take a white songthaew heading towards Wat Tham Suea (50 THB per person, ~45 mins).
From Ao Nang: Take a songthaew to Krabi Town first, then transfer.
Best for independent travelers (~30 mins from Krabi Town, ~20 mins from Ao Nang).
Cost: ~200–300 THB per day.
Route: Follow Highway 4039 (well-signposted).
Warning: Steep stairs at the temple—be prepared for a 1,237-step climb!
Many Krabi/Ao Nang tours include Tiger Cave Temple as part of a day trip (often combined with Emerald Pool or other attractions).
✅ Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry ~4:30 PM).
✅ Dress Code: Cover shoulders & knees (sarongs available for rent).
✅ Bring Water & Good Shoes – The climb is strenuous but rewarding!
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) in Krabi, Thailand, is a stunning Buddhist temple known for its spiritual significance, breathtaking views, and challenging climb. Here’s what you can do when visiting:
The steep staircase leads to a golden Buddha statue and a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Krabi’s lush jungles and limestone cliffs.
The climb is strenuous but rewarding—wear comfortable shoes and bring water.
Best times: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
Explore the beautiful temple grounds at the base, featuring intricate Thai Buddhist architecture, statues, and prayer halls.
Admire the giant golden Buddha statue and smaller shrines.
According to legend, a tiger once lived in this cave, which is now a sacred meditation site.
Inside, you’ll find Buddhist relics, stalactites, and a serene atmosphere.
The temple is an active meditation center—visitors can participate in meditation sessions.
Some monks are open to conversations about Buddhism (ask respectfully).
From the summit, you’ll see Krabi’s stunning karst landscapes, including views of Krabi Town and the Andaman Sea.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most magical lighting.
Macaques roam the area—keep a safe distance and avoid feeding them.
Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees).
Remove shoes before entering sacred areas.
Stay quiet and respectful.
Emerald Pool (Sa Morakot) – A natural spring pool.
Blue Pool (Sa Nam Phut) – A striking blue mineral pool.
Krabi Town Night Market – For local food and souvenirs.
Entry Fee: Free (donations welcome).
Best Time to Visit: Early morning (6 AM–8 AM) to avoid crowds and heat.
Bring: Water, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera.
Visiting the Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Sua) in Krabi, Thailand, is a rewarding but challenging experience. Here are some essential tips to make your trip enjoyable and safe:
The temple is located atop a steep hill, requiring a 1,237-step climb.
Wear comfortable shoes with good grip (the steps can be slippery).
Take breaks along the way—there are shaded resting spots.
Bring water (there are small shops at the base selling drinks).
This is a sacred Buddhist site, so modest clothing is required (cover shoulders and knees).
Sarongs are available for rent if needed.
Early morning (6–8 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM) to avoid the midday heat.
Sunrise and sunset offer stunning views but bring a flashlight if descending late.
Water bottle (hydration is key).
Sunscreen & hat (parts of the climb are exposed to the sun).
Camera (breathtaking views of Krabi and the Andaman Sea).
Small change for donations or refreshments.
Remove shoes before entering temple buildings.
Stay quiet and respectful—monks may be meditating.
Avoid pointing feet at Buddha statues (considered disrespectful).
Visit the giant golden Buddha statue at the summit.
Check out the cave temple at the base (where the temple gets its name).
Explore the surrounding forests and smaller shrines.
The climb is strenuous—not recommended for those with heart or knee problems.
Watch out for monkeys—they can be mischievous (don’t carry food openly).
If visiting during the rainy season (May–Oct.), steps may be slippery.
Located about 3 km from Krabi Town.
Rent a scooter (cheap and convenient) or take a taxi/tuk-tuk.
Some tour packages include a stop here.
After descending, treat yourself to fresh coconut water or Thai iced tea from the vendors below!
The best time to visit Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) in Krabi, Thailand, depends on weather, crowd levels, and your personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown:
Weather: Pleasant temperatures (25–32°C), low humidity, and minimal rain.
Why Visit? Ideal for climbing the 1,237 steps to the summit without extreme heat.
Sunrise/Sunset: Clear skies offer stunning views of Krabi’s landscape.
Weather: Very hot (up to 38°C), but dry.
Pros: Fewer crowds than peak season.
Cons: Climbing the steps can be exhausting in the heat—bring water and go early morning (6–8 AM) or late afternoon (4–6 PM).
Weather: Frequent rain, high humidity, and slippery steps.
Pros: Few tourists, lush greenery, and a mystical atmosphere.
Cons: Rain can make the climb risky—check the forecast before going.
Sunrise (5:30–6:30 AM): Coolest time, magical views, fewer people.
Late Afternoon (4–5 PM): Avoids midday heat, great for sunset (but bring a flashlight for descent).
Midday (10 AM–3 PM): Extremely hot and crowded.
Heavy Rain Days: Slippery steps can be dangerous.
✔ Wear comfortable shoes & light clothing.
✔ Bring water and sunscreen.
✔ Respect temple dress codes (cover shoulders & knees).