Although Krabi is among the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand because of many things, i.e. magnificent beaches, water sports, cave temples, beautiful scenery, wildlife, rich culture etc., our focus in this article will be on Krabi’s cave temples. Krabi is home to some of the oldest, most magnificent and popular cave temples in Thailand and the world at large. Below is a detailed discussion of these cave temples to find out what makes them attract millions of tourists to Krabi every year.
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1. Tiger Cave Temple
The tiger cave temple also known as Wat Tham Suea derives its name from its location, i.e. it is located near a rock outgrowth which resembles a tiger’s claw. The Tiger Temple is located approximately 3 kilometers from Krabi towards the North East. Wat Tham Suea has for a long time been known as Krabi’s meditation center. The temple’s spectacular setting on AoLuk Thanu mountain ranges offers the perfect (quiet and peaceful) atmosphere for medication. The main sanctum sanctorum (Vihara) is inside a shallow small limestone cave. All sides of the Tiger cave are lined with small cell-like caves known as Kutis or monastic cells. This area is well-lit and maintained. The environment’s serenity has also been well preserved. Approximately 250 nuns and monks reside in Tiger cave temple compounds today. Tiger Cave Temple therefore acts as a religious, cultural and natural scenery attraction.
2. Wat Khlong Thom
The Wat Khlong Tom doubles up as a cave temple and museum. The Wat Khlong is located 1 kilometers from Krabi Town on the eastern side. The cave temple museum has an extensive collection of stones, tools (made of stones), bronze, pottery, beads, and coins among other historical artifacts that date back many centuries. Wat Klong Tom has great contents that portray the ancient cultural backgrounds of Krabi. The cave temple and museum are popular among tourists who are interested in exploring Krabi’s religious and historic attractions.
3. Tham Phra Nang Nok
Also known as the Outer Princess Cave, The Tham Phra Nang Nok is another top Krabi cave temple. The Princess Cave changed its name to Tham Phra Nang Nok after being discovered. The cave temple got its original name after Princess Nang (a mythical princess). The Tham Phra Nang Nok is located south of Ao Phra Nang beach in the Phra Nang mountain caves. Many tourists are attracted to the Tham Phra Nang Nok for its religious significance as well as the sheer pleasure and adventure of climbing the area’s challenging cliff faces. In the inner cave, the Tham Phra Nang Nok has a hidden pool known as the Sa Phra Nang. The pool can be reached using a trail that goes into the mountain side interior.
4. Tham Phi-Hue To/Hualok
The Tham Phi-Hue To/Hualok is particularly attractive to archaeologists and regular tourists who visit Krabi. The temple is massive and features lots of prehistoric drawings of people in hunting gear and animals. The cave is located on a hill that is surrounded by mangroves and water. The cave is accessed via a boat from Krabi town.
John Chen is a travel writer currently located in Bangkok, Thailand. He likes writing about Thailand and he writes not only about traveling in Thailand, but also about business, culture, economy, education and food. He often travel between Krabi and Phuket on Phuket Ferry.