Tiger Cave temple
Wat Tham Sua, known as Tiger Cave Temple, is a significant Buddhist temple and place of worship set into the limestone hills of Krabi. The site's centrepiece is a towering golden Buddha statue at the summit, reached via a demanding climb of approximately 1,237 to 1,260 steps — a figure that varies slightly between accounts, but consistently represents a serious physical challenge. The reward at the top is a sweeping panoramic view across the Krabi landscape that visitors consistently describe as breathtaking and well worth the effort.
The temple grounds hold a genuine spiritual atmosphere, particularly in the quieter morning hours when the site feels more contemplative and less crowded. It is worth noting that Tiger Cave itself is a separate attraction located at a different, much lower set of stairs to the right of the main entrance — distinct from the summit climb. The site is active as a place of worship, so the atmosphere carries real religious weight beyond its role as a scenic viewpoint.
Visitors should arrive early to avoid both the heat and the crowds, and to experience the site at its most peaceful. Modest dress is required as a mark of respect for the active temple. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended given the steep and sometimes uneven steps. Bringing sufficient water is essential, though water is also reported to be available at the top. Those with mobility limitations or health concerns should assess the climb carefully before attempting it.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Tiger Cave temple, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Tough walk up to the temple! 1200 steps! Must bring water. Water available at the top also! Tiger cave it a separate set of stairs to the right. Not high up like the temple. I recommend good shoes cause it’s strait up! It’s tough on the calves! Food and snacks at the bottom of the stairs.
I visited this place in the third week of September, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. To reach the top of the mountain, you need to climb 1,260 steep steps. The ascent is quite challenging, especially if you are not used to regular physical activity. I wouldn’t recommend it for elderly people, but for adventure seekers, it’s definitely worth the effort. The best time to start the climb is early in the morning. The weather is cooler then, and you can avoid being completely drenched in sweat. Every step feels like a test of stamina, but the sense of achievement grows stronger as you move higher. Once you reach the summit, you are rewarded with breathtaking views of nature all around. At the top, you’ll find the magnificent Big Buddha statue along with a beautiful sculpture of Lord Ganesha. The serene atmosphere there makes you forget all the exhaustion of the climb. At the base of the mountain, where the journey begins, there are bathrooms available, though they are not very well maintained. Still, this small inconvenience doesn’t overshadow the overall experience.
The 1,237-step climb is grueling but 100% worth it. The panoramic views and massive golden Buddha at the summit are breathtaking. Go early to beat the heat, dress modestly, and bring plenty of water. Watch your stuff around the monkeys-they snatch food! A must-do in Krabi.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 91 reviews on Google.
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Tiger Cave temple: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tiger Cave temple worth visiting?
Tiger Cave temple holds a 4.5★ rating from 91 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Krabi.
When is the best time to visit Tiger Cave temple?
The best months to visit Krabi are November – April, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – September (rough Andaman seas).
Where is Tiger Cave temple located?
Tiger Cave temple is at 450 ถนน อุตรกิจ Tambon Krabi Noi, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81000, Thailand, in Krabi. Getting around Krabi: Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach); Songthaews in Ao Nang.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus or minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.
Getting around
- •Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
- •Songthaews in Ao Nang
- •Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
- •Motorbike rental
Where to stay near Tiger Cave temple
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places
Stairs Wat Tham Suea
A steep 1,260-step climb up a Krabi mountain leads to a revered Buddhist temple with rewarding views.
Wat Tham Suea
Around 1,260 brutal steps to the summit Buddha, and the temple below is worth your time even if you skip them.
Viewpoint at Tiger Cave Temple
A working Buddhist temple in Krabi rewarding those who climb its 1,260 steep steps with sweeping karst panoramas.
The Palm Krabi
A cultural retreat in Krabi's Pak Nam area, offering visitors a peaceful escape with local charm.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near Tiger Cave temple
Find hotels in Krabi on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus or minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.
Getting around
- •Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
- •Songthaews in Ao Nang
- •Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
- •Motorbike rental