The Tiger Cave Temple, also known as Wat Tham Suea, is one of Thailand’s most respected Buddhist temples, located in Krabi. Famous for its tiger paw prints in the cave, large golden statues, including a majestic Buddha, and a challenging climb offering stunning views of limestone cliffs and lush forests, this temple is a must-visit attraction.

Discover everything you need to know about visiting the Tiger Cave Temple, from getting there and entrance fees to helpful tips on what to expect and the best time to visit, in the following blog post.

Getting to Tiger Cave Temple

Renting a scooter will be the most affordable and convenient option, costing around 200 Baht per day.

If you prefer a guided experience, there are organized tours available to the Tiger Cave Temple that often include visits to other popular attractions in Krabi, such as the Emerald Pool and Krabi Hot Springs. These tours depart from Krabi, Ao Nang, and Klong Muang, and may also offer hotel pick-up services.

Alternatively, you can hire a driver for the day or take a private taxi, though this will be a more expensive option.

Recommended Guided Tour – Krabi: Tiger Temple, Hot Springs & Crystal Pool Jungle Tour

Tiger Cave Temple Entrance Fee & Opening Hours

Visiting the Tiger Cave Temple doesn’t require an entrance fee. However, they appreciate any donation to support their ongoing work.

The Tiger Cave Temple is open from 8 am until 5 pm. It’s important to note that the last entry for the climb is before 5 pm, after which you won’t be allowed to start the climb. If you happen to be on your way or at the top at this time, you can stay up there for as long as you like. However, since the way back might be in the dark, I recommend bringing a headlamp for safety.

Tiger Cave Temple Dress Code

When visiting the Tiger Cave Temple, dress modestly, as with all temples in Asia. For women, this means covering their shoulders and knees.

However, there is no dress code for the open-air temple at the top of the mountain. Make sure to bring some comfortable cool clothes for the hike. 

The Way to Tiger Cave Temple

Yes, the Tiger Cave Temple is on top of a mountain which unfortunately means lots and lots of stairs, 1260 vertical steps to be exact! Be prepared for a 309-meter vertical ascent along a 600-meter path, but don’t worry I can assure you the views are totally worth the sweat and struggle.

Though the views are breathtaking, this climb is not for those that are scared of heights or unfit. Many of the steps are almost knee-high and completely vertical, making the hike challenging even for those in great shape.

There are many places to stop, rest and enjoy the surrounding views of the valley and beautiful panorama and I suggest you do so. The trek takes approximately 40 minutes, depending on the frequency and length of your stops.

You’ll notice numbered poles along the stairs, indicating the number of steps you’ve climbed. I don’t know whether this is a good thing or a bad thing!

After reaching the top of the mountain, you will need to remove your shoes and place them on the shoe rack before entering the temple area. A drinking water tap is available at the top to refill your water bottle.

In addition to the stunning views, you will find a magnificent golden Buddha and other statues. Plan to spend at least 3 hours exploring the Tiger Cave Temple, allowing enough time to make the challenging climb up the mountain, soak in the views at the top, and make your way back down.

Tiger Cave

Make sure to visit the Tiger Cave while you are here. I stumbled upon this gem myself, as I initially thought it was the way to the mountaintop temple. From the parking lot take the first left where there is a sign that says “Tiger Temple”. If you go past the first left and continue on you will soon arrive at the bottom of the stairs on the left to get up to the mountain-top temple.

The Tiger Cave Temple got its name from the discovery of tiger paw prints on the walls of the cave. According to legend, a monk discovered a tiger living in the forest cave during his meditation. The Tiger Cave houses several Buddha and tiger statues and you may even witness monks performing their rituals.

Helpful Tips:

• The best time to visit the Tiger Cave Temple is early morning or late afternoon.
• Bring plenty of water with you!
• Enjoy the sunset on top of the mountain (start your hike up an hour before sunset to give you plenty of time to get there)
• If you are visiting during sunset, bring headlamps with you for the way down.
• Be aware of the monkeys. Keep all your loose belongings, such as sunglasses and phones, safely tucked away in your bag to prevent the monkeys from snatching them from you.
• Bring small cash with you for a donation. 
• Wear modest clothing (women should have their shoulders and knees covered). Bring a change of clothes for the climb up to the top of the mountain.

The Tiger Cave Temple is nothing short of impressive and a must-visit if you’re in Krabi!

To make the most out of your visit to Krabi, be sure to check out my blog posts on 10 things to do in Krabi and 5 Best Islands Near Krabi. It’s filled with exciting ideas, from beach adventures to temple explorations and island hopping.

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