Wat Tham Suea

To discover the true treasure of Wat Tam Suea in Krabi, after exploring the sacred caves, climb the 1,260 steps leading to the mountaintop. A majestic golden Buddha statue and breathtaking views of the region await you there.

History

Monk Jumnean Seelasettho retreated to this place in the 1970s. It is said that he saw tigers roaming in the cave where he meditated. This discovery inspired the future Buddhist temple's name, Wat Tham Suea, which means "Tiger Cave Temple." Legends previously spoke of a tiger inhabiting the cave, with its paw prints visible on the cavity walls.

Visiting Wat Tam Suea

Wat Tam Suea is nestled at the foot of a lush mountain, approximately 9 kilometers northwest of Krabi. Upon arrival, start your visit with the limestone caves serving as sanctuaries and meditation spots for monks. Admire the beautiful icons and numerous tiger statues, paying homage to the temple's history. The "Wonderland" forested area of the complex is home to many ancient trees that nature enthusiasts will find enchanting.

Ascending to the mountaintop

Ensure you're well-energized before the climb. The path to the summit involves significant effort, with 1,260 steps to ascend! It's a vertical climb of 309 meters over a total distance of 600 meters, but you'll be richly rewarded at the top. Allow about an hour, including breaks, to reach the summit. Numbered poles along the stairs indicate the distance covered.

During the climb, take occasional breaks to enjoy the lush scenery and catch your breath. Monkeys in the surrounding forests may playfully interact with visitors. While having fun, remain vigilant with your belongings, as these monkeys are known for their mischievous antics.

Upon reaching the summit, as you enter a sacred place, remove your shoes and place them in the designated area. There's a tap with drinking water available for refreshment. Take a moment to contemplate the golden Buddha and receive blessings, then capture the stunning views of cliffs and tropical forests with your camera.

Visiting Wat Tham Suea can be combined with an excursion to the nearby Crystal Lagoon. After a short forest walk, you'll reach a translucent lagoon, perfect for a refreshing swim.

How to get there?

There are several ways to reach Wat Tam Suea from Krabi. Many travelers opt to rent a motorbike for independence and because the temple isn't far from the city. A motorcycle rental costs about 200 baht per day. Alternatively, you can take a traditional Songthaew (shared taxi), offering a local transport experience through the Thai countryside. However, the bus doesn't stop at the temple entrance, so part of the journey will require walking. From Krabi, expect to pay about 50 baht for a Songthaew ride to the nearest stop to Wat Tam Suea. From Ao Nang Beach, it's around 150 baht.

When is the best time to visit?

If you plan to climb the mountain, visit in the morning. The afternoon heat can make the ascent more challenging. Avoid rainy days when steps may become slippery, potentially causing accidents.

Opening hours and fees

There's no entrance fee to visit Wat Tam Suea in Krabi. However, donations are welcome to help monks maintain the temple and fund ongoing projects. The temple opens from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last entry allowed for the ascent at 5 p.m. If you're already hiking beyond this time, you can continue to the top and descend when ready. Be mindful not to stay too late, as the stairs are not illuminated. Bring a headlamp for your safety.