Wat Tham Suea, or Tiger Cave Temple, is a renowned Vipassana meditation center located in Krabi Noi Subdistrict, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi Province. It was founded in 1975 (B.E. 2518) by Phra Ajahn Chamnian Silasetho, a highly respected monk who came to this area in search of a peaceful place for meditation practice. He discovered a large natural cave beneath a limestone cliff, which was once home to tigers and various wild animals. Inside the cave, he found rock formations resembling tiger paw prints on the cave walls, inspiring the name “Tiger Cave Temple.”

In addition to its spiritual significance, the temple is also known for its striking and challenging natural landscape. One of its most iconic features is the stairway leading to the mountain summit, well known among tourists and pilgrims alike. Visitors must climb 1,260 steep steps (originally 1,237, with some added through renovation) to reach the top, where a large Buddha statue and a sacred stupa are enshrined. This summit offers a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view, encompassing limestone mountains, lush Krabi forests, the Andaman Sea, and stunning sunrises and sunsets—making it one of the most beautiful viewpoints in southern Thailand.

Within the temple grounds, there are many other places of significance both spiritually and historically, such as numerous natural caves used by monks for meditation, including the Tiger Paw Cave, Gandharva Cave, Through Cave, and Arrow Cave. There is also a stone footprint of the Buddha, believed to be a sacred symbol of the Enlightened One. At the base of the mountain stands a Guanyin Pavilion, where devotees come to pray for health and family blessings. The temple also houses a Dhamma practice hall and a monastic school for Buddhist studies, offering religious education to monks and novices and serving as a foundation for preserving and promoting Buddhism.

• By car: Drive from Krabi Town via Route 4 (Phet Kasem Road) eastward for about 9 km. The temple is well-signposted.

• By taxi or Grab: Easily book a ride from Krabi Town; travel time is approximately 15–20 minutes.

• Start your climb early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.

• Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and dress modestly.

• Avoid feeding the monkeys around the temple.

• Maintain quietness and respect religious customs.

Opening Hours: Daily from 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Entrance Fee: Free (Donations welcome)

Facilities: Toilets, local shops, parking area