Thailand

Perched magnificently on a rocky hill, Wat Tham Sua, or the Tiger Cave Temple, is an iconic landmark of Kanchanaburi. Curtain on the attraction!

If you're vacationing in Kanchanaburi, a province in western Thailand, dedicate half a day to exploring Wat Tham Sua monastery. Athletic types can skip the funicular and gladly climb the 157 steps leading to Chin Phrathanporn, a monumental Buddha statue standing at 18 meters, from which the temple derives its renown. Similarly, the mysterious cave, adorned with tiger paintings, will pique your curiosity. However, it's the advantageous hilltop location that primarily makes Wat Tham Sua a recommended hiking destination for panorama lovers, offering delightful views of the countryside. The savvy will combine this visit with a boat tour on the Mae Klong River!

History

Wat Tham Sua, also known as Wat Tham Suea, regardless of the spelling, is a Buddhist temple founded as recently as 1971. Its name means "tiger cave temple" in Thai. Indeed, a cave hides within the complex where a hermit monk was said to have meditated in seclusion. Once, a colony of tigers supposedly inhabited the hill where the temple now stands. The cave remains to this day, but the felines have vanished. Animal figures adorning the cave walls bear traces of that distant era.

Today

Despite its youth and distance from Kanchanaburi's city center, the "sanctuary of the tiger cave" is considered a regional symbol. It features two main attractions: the gigantic Buddha and the unusual cave. Photographers will add a third: the unique view of Kanchanaburi's rice field landscapes.

Chin Phrathanporn, an oversized Buddha

The site's popularity stems from the presence of the gold-leaf-covered Buddha statue named "Chin Phrathanporn," revered by monks. The Buddha sits in a lotus position with one hand on the knee and the other raised upwards, symbolizing meditation that purifies the soul and leads to ultimate wisdom. Craftsmanship is evident in its impressive dimensions: standing 18 meters tall and 10 meters wide, the statue's size is nearly unrivaled. Equally impressive are the Buddhist rituals conducted at the feet of Chin Phrathanporn, where devotees still come to offer candles and coins, seeking blessings for business, bountiful harvests, or fertility.

The Chedi

The imposing statue is housed within a chedi that also commands attention. Standing 69 meters high and 29 meters wide, it provides a comparative view of architectural tastes between Thailand and the Middle Kingdom through two pagodas flanking the chedi.

Breathtaking views

For romantics, Wat Tham Sua's highlight is undoubtedly the viewpoint atop the rocky knoll. The vista of the surrounding countryside is simply breathtaking. The landscape unfolds with mountain ranges interspersed with endless rice paddies, bordered by the Mae Klong River.

You can ascend to the sanctuary on foot or via a funicular. If climbing, keep an eye out for Nagas, multi-headed serpent deities lining the colorful staircase.

Upon reaching the temple courtyard after the 157 steps, you'll find numerous souvenir vendors displaying crafts, textiles, and ceramics. No need to approach them—they eagerly approach tourists.

Practical information

When to visit?

Plan your visit to Wat Tham Sua during your next trip to Western Thailand in the early or late year (November to February). This post-rainy season sees vegetation flourish, painting hills and rice paddies in vibrant greens. Avoid visiting from May to October, when rains are heavy in the Kanchanaburi region.

How to get there?

The monastery is about 12 kilometers from Kanchanaburi. Your driver can take you there during your stay.

Opening hours and fees

The site is open 7 days a week, with different hours on weekdays versus weekends:

• Monday to Friday: 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
• Saturday and Sunday: 7:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Entry to Wat Tham Sua is free, but if the climb to the top is too strenuous, you can pay 10 baht to use the funicular.

Dress code

Buddhists adhere strictly to modesty norms. Ensure you dress appropriately when visiting the temple. Shorts, tank tops, or mini-skirts are considered disrespectful. Remember to remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall.