Tiger Cave Temple, Krabi

Oh, boy, was this a hard climb, Spike.

Old steps above and New steps below

It wasn't THAT bad.


Well, maybe for someone who walks on four legs instead of two. This is not a tourist site for the couch traveler, stair-climber hater, or anyone with serious health conditions. Seriously. It is not handicapped-accessible for anyone with a wheelchair, stroller, cane, or walker. There are rules against camping at the top. Also, this is an active temple and meditation site for Buddhist monks. Women must cover knees and shoulders, following all rules of visiting any temple in Thailand.

I do agree with the Captain on that. While 1,260 steps might sound like a quick walk up a mountain, these are not regulation stairs. Some are a few inches tall, others are knee-high to someone who is above average in height!

These steps were taller than the Captain on his tiptoes!

This sign at the bottom is no longer correct once some of the flights of stairs were rebuilt!

We had a loooong way to go!

At each landing, you can check your progress. If that is not encouraging to you, look away!

The best site of the day!

So what is the Tiger Cave Temple? Will you see any tigers? Is there a cave on top of all those stairs? And, most importantly, is there a source of drinking water at the top?

Let's answer that last one first: No. Bring water. Bring a LOT of water. It's a lot of steep stairs and there is no breeze on the stairs due to the trees blocking any hint of wind. I recommend 3-4 water bottles per person if not more. Going early in the day can also make it a little easier.

 That's right! Too many people turned back because they drank their tiny water bottles before the 500th step.

The Tiger Cave Temple is officially called Wat Tham Sua, and it is one of the most sacred temples in Thailand. The foundation was built in 1975 after a monk, during his meditation in the cave, saw tigers. Whether they were visions or real is unknown.

What about the real tiger, Spike?

What tiger? Oh, you mean the legend a tiger used to roam the area? 

Well, there are the tiger prints inside the cave! The cave, by the way, is not at the top. The temple is at the top with fabulous views of the surrounding area. The cave itself is one of many in the area. It is found by following a path through the trees. We were too tired after the climb to go to the cave too.

There is a large temple complex at the base of the limestone hill. Explore it before your climb unless you are used to a lot of climbing. You might be too tired after reaching the top and walking down.

  

Whatever you do, while climbing do not hold a water bottle, snack, or anything else in your hands. The monkeys can be very aggressive and will jump ON your back or head to snatch hats, sunglasses, or food. 

If you do persevere and make it to the top, the golden Buddha, the temple with the "Footprint of the Buddha," the views of Krabi, the Andaman Sea, and the countryside are worth the quivering leg muscles.

The temple that is still under construction at the bottom.

First view of the temple at the top.

 

The surrounding area is breathtaking to see.

 Last thing: the temple and cave are actually free of charge. There may or may not be a Buddhist nun telling you to pay. What you are paying for is a braided cord she will tie around your wrist. The money does go to the construction and upkeep of the site.