Viewpoint at Tiger Cave Temple
Perched above Krabi's lowlands, this working Buddhist temple draws visitors for two distinct reasons: its active spiritual life and the extraordinary panoramic views waiting at the summit. Reaching the top requires climbing 1,260 steep steps — closer in parts to a ladder than a staircase — but those who make the ascent are rewarded with expansive vistas across Krabi's limestone karsts and surrounding landscape. The temple grounds themselves house monks and local devotees engaged in daily Buddhist practice, giving the site genuine cultural weight beyond the scenery. The atmosphere shifts noticeably from the lower grounds to the summit. At the base, the temple complex is quiet and contemplative, with shrines and religious structures typical of Thai Buddhist sites. The climb is physically demanding and should not be underestimated, but visitors of moderate fitness who pace themselves and take breaks find it entirely manageable. Good to know: arriving between 8 and 9am is strongly advised — temperatures rise quickly and the steps become more crowded as the morning progresses. There is no water available on the route up or at the top, so bringing sufficient water is essential. No advance tickets are needed and no entrance fee is charged, though donations are customary at the temple. Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and wear sturdy, closed shoes suited to steep climbing. The site is open daily from 6am to 6pm.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Viewpoint at Tiger Cave Temple, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Definitely do not need to pre purchase tickets for this activity but be ware that it is definitely not for everyone unless you don't mind taking a lot of breaks while climbing to the top of 1260 steps if your fitness is not the best. The temple also provides free water at the bottom and top of the climb to the viewpoint so stock up before attempting to do it. The climb is steep and the hill side is exposed to the sun which can make the railings very hot to the touch. There are several sections shaded the trees though. Views at the top are amazing with huge plains on one end Vs mountais on the other. To the north you can see Khao Phanom Bencha. The highest mountain in Krabi Province (about 1,397 meters / 4,583 ft) and looks stunning when top is hidden in the clouds. If you're planning on doing the caves as well I'd recommend doing them first since they are a separate trail with only 150 steps and after doing the whole 1260 up and down we were pretty drained and did not enjoy them as much as we should have.
Tiger Cave Temple is absolutely worth it. The climb consists of 1,260 steps, and some sections are quite steep, so it can feel challenging at times, but it’s still very doable for most people. The ascent is shorter than it sounds, I reached the top in about 25 minutes. The entrance fee is fair, and the views from the top are beautiful and rewarding. The best advice is to go before sunrise or at sunrise. At that time it’s cooler, there are far fewer people, and the whole experience feels much more peaceful and enjoyable. If you go early, the light, the temperature, and the atmosphere make it an especially lovely experience. Highly recommended.
You must visit this temple if you come to Krabi. I also recommend coming in the morning (8-9 AM) because after this hour it gets hot and crowder. This is important because the road up is not easy. The stairs are narrow and high, making the climb a bit difficult. You have free water at the bottom and on the top of the climb. Also you need to pay attention at the monkeys, because they will try to steal things from you :). The dogs are good boys.
Location Info
4WGF+67F, Krabi Noi, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, ThailandTips 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.
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Ko Phi Phi Don
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Emerald Pool
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Kodam Kitchen branch 1
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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/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