Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)
4.5
About
The Tiger Cave Temple in southern Thailand serves as a religious site for the monks who live and worship there, and features a maze of natural caves in an overgrown jungle valley. This Buddhist complex is also popular with believers and travelers. Here, you can enjoy the views of the surroundings, and admire archaeological findings, which include stone tools, pottery remains, and the mold allegedly used to make Buddha’s footprints.
Take your time to climb over 1,200 steps leading to the summit, and join a guided tour to visit the caves and learn more about the temple. – Tripadvisor
Features animals
Learn more about animal welfare in tourismSuggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
20 within 3 miles
Attractions
23 within 6 miles
See what other travelers are saying
- LoveTravel6194204 contributionsDo not miss this spotFirst off, you will feel like belting out the Rocky theme song if you make it to the top. Be sure and go late in the afternoon so you can watch the sun set over the golden Buddhas. Use your mobile phone flashlight to head down after dark. Watch out for the grumpy monkeys.Visited November 2019Written January 27, 2020
- Stephen Browne37 contributionsReally good fun, definitely go early!Go before sunrise, get to the top for sunrise. Monkeys only occupy the first 200 steps or so and just don't have stuff in your hand and you'll be fine. Yes it's difficult, but it took me exactly 15 minutes and I was carrying about 10kg worth of camera gear in my backpack. I am young and reasonably fit, but I think 30 minutes at a slow pace and you'll be fine especially without a heavy bag like I had. There's dogs at the top that roam around, they all seemed friendly. In the morning there was about 10 people up there that thinned out to two after the sunset. The grounds at the bottom have some nice architecture as well. The sun rises and blasts the stairs, so go early before it's on the stairs, or late in the afternoon when it is on the other side of the hill and you'll be inn the shade.Visited February 2020Written February 22, 2020
- Pamela9 contributionsSacred vWe rent a car with driver from krabi shuttle and did a four hour tour.Tiger cave was our first stop and we were amazed of the sight of the temple compound.We did not climb the stairs but explore the different caves where u can see statues of different faith (Buddhist, Hindu and Taoism) and also tiger and dragon statues. I am glad to visit this sacred temple with my family.Visited January 2020Traveled with familyWritten January 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,882 reviews
Excellent
2,322
Very good
1,163
Average
321
Poor
50
Terrible
26
Sharon H
Houston, TX451 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
The Tiger Cave Temple is just a few stairs up.
Dress with shoulders covered and long pants or skirt. Monks are inside. Take shoes off.
There is another 1259 stair set in same complex (yes that is 1259 up and another 1259 down) almost vertical climb and many stairs are over 1 ft high.
There's a buddha up there...1 of many in
Thailand.
Hundreds of other Buddhas are much more accessible!
You will see the Buddha view photos attached. & the upper views photos too.
Be sure you consider this climb carefully before heading there!
I climb on most everything and everyone going up and down was whining, not to mention sweating in Jan the coolest season at 90 F with humidity !
Dress with shoulders covered and long pants or skirt. Monks are inside. Take shoes off.
There is another 1259 stair set in same complex (yes that is 1259 up and another 1259 down) almost vertical climb and many stairs are over 1 ft high.
There's a buddha up there...1 of many in
Thailand.
Hundreds of other Buddhas are much more accessible!
You will see the Buddha view photos attached. & the upper views photos too.
Be sure you consider this climb carefully before heading there!
I climb on most everything and everyone going up and down was whining, not to mention sweating in Jan the coolest season at 90 F with humidity !
Written January 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fais
Denmark8 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We can recommend everyone to visit the temple. It's a good spiritual place, where you can walk around and see different types of statues (for them god).
The best point is on top of the cliff - about 1400 stair up.
The best point is on top of the cliff - about 1400 stair up.
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Justin G
9 contributions
Sep 2023 • Solo
The tiger cave temple itself isn’t too stunning, just a small cave with a temple inside that has an interesting history, but the hike to the shrine at the top of the mountain is unreal. It’s a grueling climb up a steep flight of stairs that will take the average person about 45 minutes to an hour, but can be done in as little as 20-30,minutes if you’re in very good shape.
I’d recommend going at first sunrise around 6 am and you’ll not only beat the other tourists, but the you’ll be the heat as well. I went early morning as only saw a few other people, and otherwise had the place to myself. Felt very adventurous and peaceful.
I’d recommend going at first sunrise around 6 am and you’ll not only beat the other tourists, but the you’ll be the heat as well. I went early morning as only saw a few other people, and otherwise had the place to myself. Felt very adventurous and peaceful.
Written September 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael P
Brentwood, UK16 contributions
Dec 2019 • Friends
1267 steps - or thereabouts! Tougher than I expected but totally worth it! The views from the top are amazing, suggest starting an hour before sunset to watch it from the top, took me around 45mins to reach the top and I’m relatively fit and healthy, took my time and didn’t rush. The only issue is there is one way up and the same way down so you will be passing others going the opposite direction. There are stopping points you can catch your breath or have a break and toilets just over half way up. There are also monkeys you will need to walk over, around and/or through!
Written January 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emma L
69 contributions
Dec 2019
Take water and wear sensible shoes!
Although this place is included in many tours, it is actually free to enter. If you have your own transport, I'd recommend going before 9am, or after 3pm to beat the crowds and the heat of the sun!
I'm not normally an active person and hate going to the gym, but I did it. I was determined to get to the top, and SO glad I did it. The views are breath taking! There is a shrine at the top too, and a bit of shade - this is where some of the monkeys hung out too.
Some tourists were trying to feed the monkeys and take selfies with them, one man got his drink snatched from him too. We have to remember these are wild animals!
On the way down your legs turn to jelly and wobble! But motivate and encourage those who are stopping on the steps.
The ground level buildings are interesting and the cave where the monk and tiger lived was ok too.
Although this place is included in many tours, it is actually free to enter. If you have your own transport, I'd recommend going before 9am, or after 3pm to beat the crowds and the heat of the sun!
I'm not normally an active person and hate going to the gym, but I did it. I was determined to get to the top, and SO glad I did it. The views are breath taking! There is a shrine at the top too, and a bit of shade - this is where some of the monkeys hung out too.
Some tourists were trying to feed the monkeys and take selfies with them, one man got his drink snatched from him too. We have to remember these are wild animals!
On the way down your legs turn to jelly and wobble! But motivate and encourage those who are stopping on the steps.
The ground level buildings are interesting and the cave where the monk and tiger lived was ok too.
Written January 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Conor B
Patong, Thailand23 contributions
Sep 2022 • Solo
I do this hike 2 or 3 times per week for fitness. Go as early as you can because it gets hot and muggy. There is water available at the top but I would bring my own bottle. Be careful of the monkeys. They are at the lower levels, they don't really go above 300 steps but they will rob you blind. Be respectful, it is a religious temple, you will be asked to cover up if you have short shorts or shoulders showing( women).
My best time is 12.51 but have heard of people doing it under 11 minutes. There is also something called the verticle mile which is a whole other challenge.
My best time is 12.51 but have heard of people doing it under 11 minutes. There is also something called the verticle mile which is a whole other challenge.
Written September 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KLizC
Gloucestershire, UK12 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
Thoroughly enjoyed, amazing views at top and very impressive Golden Buddha.
Tough climb - we managed it in just under 30 mins, but could easily take over an hour if not fit as the steps were very steep.
Definitely recommend going early in the morning to avoid the worst of the heat, less tourists and the monkeys!!
The monkeys were cute to see as there were several baby monkeys but we saw 2 of them jump onto a lady’s bag/head and was very distressing for her.
Definitely worth a visit. We got there by taxi from Ao Nang - cost 1000Baht return for 4 people and he waited at the bottom for us.
Tough climb - we managed it in just under 30 mins, but could easily take over an hour if not fit as the steps were very steep.
Definitely recommend going early in the morning to avoid the worst of the heat, less tourists and the monkeys!!
The monkeys were cute to see as there were several baby monkeys but we saw 2 of them jump onto a lady’s bag/head and was very distressing for her.
Definitely worth a visit. We got there by taxi from Ao Nang - cost 1000Baht return for 4 people and he waited at the bottom for us.
Written January 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Uffe
Stockholm, Sweden23 contributions
Dec 2022
Everyone talks about the huge climb (it IS a huge climb), but the place offers more for the patient visitor. If you come when it's not packed with tourists (avoid weekends, try to come earlier in the morning, etc.), you can strike conversations with some of the monks (women monks too) in the side spots. They are sooo kind and friendly, and happy to answer your questions, even if language is a barrier (I freely used google translate with speech). The statues at the cave (deeper in the complex were completely void of tourists / visitors when I went that far.
Tip for climbing the stairs: take a bottle of water (you can refill it up at the top with drinking water), do wear shorts and comfortable shoes (I was told shorts were a no-no but everyone wore shorts and I felt well dumb and hot in pants), and take breaks whenever you need to, admiring the view as you catch your breath. It's not a race, and you don't want to give up before the top, it's a magnificent view.
Tip for climbing the stairs: take a bottle of water (you can refill it up at the top with drinking water), do wear shorts and comfortable shoes (I was told shorts were a no-no but everyone wore shorts and I felt well dumb and hot in pants), and take breaks whenever you need to, admiring the view as you catch your breath. It's not a race, and you don't want to give up before the top, it's a magnificent view.
Written January 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TS&D
Portishead, UK71 contributions
Dec 2022 • Couples
1262 steps that are bordering on being vertical in places!…not for the faint hearted!…but get to the top and you’ll be hugely rewarded with the amazing views all around you…simply stunning. Watch out for the cheeky monkeys as they know what to look for so make sure all your possessions are zipped away in your bag…and opt for good comfy shoes as it’s a tough climb..take water!…a great day out, we did our own thing rather than book an official tour as it’s free entrance (they ask for a small donation)…only costs you the price of a taxi to get there and our driver waited for us…definitely recommend visiting!
Written January 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ckm818
Hong Kong, China237 contributions
Dec 2022 • Family
The Tiger Cave Temple atop a mountain is accessible by those with strong legs (and lungs). This is most often a local tour including Emerald Pool and Hot Spring. My advice is leave this destination as the last leg, as you wish to enjoy the dip in a serene natural pool before the crowd.
For the ascent, on the other hand, you wish to have the encouraging words from those walking upstairs next to you. The climb is not easy, and you’d better reserve 2 to 3 hours including the must-not-miss photography time at the top.
For the ascent, on the other hand, you wish to have the encouraging words from those walking upstairs next to you. The climb is not easy, and you’d better reserve 2 to 3 hours including the must-not-miss photography time at the top.
Written December 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
lizuk88
Nottingham, UK196 contributions
Does this have 'opening hours'? would it be too late to go late afternoon and try to catch sunset, rather than sunrise?
JollydeeDundee
Dundee, UK276 contributions
I would suggest the earlier the better as quieter
McGiv1752
Playa Flamenca, Spain65 contributions
Are there things to see & do without climbing the steps. My husband would be unable to do this.
Geraldine L
Watford, UK280 contributions
A few food stalls within the site but watch out for the cheeky monkeys. Also some small shops and food places just outside. The actual tiger cave is on site but takes only five minutes to visit.
Ирина У
Mariupol, Ukraine35 contributions
Здравствуйте! Пожалуйста, опишите подробно, где и как взять сонгтео сюда с Ао-Нанга?
Gintaras P
63 contributions
сонгтео можно заказать в Аонанге там их полно а лучче брать екскурсию на етот храм но приготовьтесь к большым трудностям при походе в верх етово храма даже на четвереньках ето заимёт около часа возмите литр воды вид потрясаюшщы но сколько сил отнимит етот поход в верх соочюствою
Hola, cuanto cuesta la entrada.
Gracias.
Nopp Nopparat
Krabi Town, Thailand195 contributions
no entrance fee
melanie f
Montauban, France34 contributions
Bonjour,
je souhaiterai savoir si le taxi vous a attendu ou si vous en avez trouvé facilement sur place pour vous ramener a l'hotel?
merci infiniment,
elsa L
Nice, France171 contributions
Bonjour. Le taxi nous a attendu sur place et nous a ramené ensuite à l hôtel.
PikTzeHong
128 contributions
Is it possible for a private car to drive up to the look out point of Tiger Temple instead of climbing the 1200 steps to the top ?
李智优
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia49,977 contributions
No. We can only reach the top by the 1,200 steps
Do you have to pay for this temple?
teltheplumber
coventry75 contributions
we did this as a trip so I would think there might be.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listingTiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea)
- We recommend booking Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 37 Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea):
- Full-Day Jungle Tour Including Tiger Cave Temple, Crystal Pool and Krabi Hot Springs (From $39.69)
- Krabi Rainforest Full Day Adventure Tour with Lunch (From $108.24)
- Jungle Tour to Emerald Pool, Krabi Hot Spring and Tiger Cave Temple (From $44.41)
- Welcome to the Jungle : Krabi Full Day Adventure Tour (SHA Plus) (From $90.20)
- Krabi Outback Explorer to Emerald Pool, Wareerak Hotspring and Beyond (From $43.30)
- Hotels near Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea):
- (7.65 mi) Pinthong Aonang villa
- (8.93 mi) Ban Sainai Resort
- (9.13 mi) Sea Seeker Krabi Resort
- (7.48 mi) Pimann Buri Pool Villas Ao Nang Krabi
- (8.36 mi) Anana Ecological Resort Krabi
- Restaurants near Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea):
- (4.37 mi) Bistro Monaco
- (4.41 mi) Chalita Cafe & Restaurant
- (4.49 mi) Gecko Cabane Restaurant
- (4.46 mi) 89 Cafe'
- (4.45 mi) The New Coconuts
- Attractions near Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea):
- (0.38 mi) Andaman Taxis
- (2.22 mi) Krabi Ezy Trails
- (3.03 mi) Krabi Taxi Services
- (3.44 mi) Thai Charm Cooking School
- (3.72 mi) Thai'd Up Adventures
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) Information
Excellent Reviews | 2,322 |
|---|---|
Very Good Reviews | 1,163 |
Tiger Cave Temple (Wat Tham Suea) Photos | 6,890 |