1260 steps to the Tiger Cave Temple

Our goal for today is to climb the Tiger Cave Temple. Since the temple is located a good half-hour drive from our accommodation in Ao Nang, we have already reserved a taxi through the reception for 7 o'clock in the morning. For 2500 Baht, the driver will be at our disposal for the entire day and will take us to the Emerald Pool after the temple. But first, we have a workout ahead of us.

We are picked up on time at 7 o'clock and off we go towards the temple. I have to admit, I already had respect for this excursion when we learned about the temple in Germany. 2360 steps to climb. That's a lot! And especially in these temperatures. Unfortunately, it doesn't get any better when the driver eventually points to a high mountain where you can already see the temple from below. With 'Up there,' the driver draws our attention to the small dot at the top of the mountain. So, we have to go up there now?! Well, then....

We are dropped off at the temple complex. At the entrance, there is a huge sign indicating appropriate clothing. In other words, shoulders and knees covered. After all, it is a sacred place. Luckily, we have already made sure to dress accordingly. Something that cannot be said for some of the tourists we will encounter here today...Even down here, everything is beautifully decorated. It seems like we arrived early enough because besides us, a few locals, some dogs, and monkeys, there is no one else to be seen yet.

The entrance is quickly found. The sign shows 1,237 steps. We don't know if that is supposed to be encouraging. Here we go! Fortunately, we set off early because it is still relatively cool and shady. So, we are quite motivated for the first few steps. But it doesn't take long before we start sweating. The fact that the steps are uneven in height and sometimes have to be climbed rather than stepped on doesn't make it any easier. However, the view is already magnificent after just a few steps. The higher we go, the more spectacular the view. Along the way, we occasionally come across a few people, but the crowds are not there yet. Thankfully, the number of steps we have climbed is occasionally displayed on the pillars along the way. It's somewhat depressing when you are already at the end, have sweated out pretty much all the bodily fluids you have, and then realize that you have only completed half. Oh well, let's keep going!

We are slowly getting closer to the goal. And eventually, the end is actually in sight! That gives us one last boost before we finally reach the top of the mountain where the temple stands. We have now taken an hour (with breaks) to get here. Before we can admire the complex, we have to take off our shoes, as is the custom in every Buddhist temple. Now we get the reward for our efforts: an incredibly beautiful, breathtaking view! Neither words nor pictures can capture this amazing experience, you just have to see it for yourself. However, it is confusing that the sign up here indicates a number of 1,260 steps. Down below, it was 1,237...so which one is correct? I think we'll just agree on: many :D

One thing that is really fascinating is the tranquility that radiates from this place. At this point, we are extremely glad to have set off so early. Later, when the tourist crowds arrive, this place will surely lose the charm it still has in the early morning hours. Apart from us, there are only a few people up here. Nevertheless, it is completely quiet because no one dares to disturb the peace. After the hustle and bustle we experienced in Krabi in the past few days, we really enjoy this. As a conclusion, we light an incense stick and leave a small donation. Although we would have liked to stay a little longer, it is slowly time for the descent. On the one hand, we still want to go to the Emerald Pool, and on the other hand, we are getting really hungry. We didn't have breakfast today.

We have chosen the right time for the descent. Because when we put on our shoes again, the first crowds of people are already stumbling up the stairs. Whoever thinks that the descent is a piece of cake is unfortunately mistaken. Granted, the climb was much more strenuous and time-consuming, but the descent requires quite a bit of concentration as you always have to watch where you step. Besides, it eventually takes a toll on the knees (yes, even at our age!). Along the way, more and more people are coming towards us. Many of them look quite exhausted and desperately ask us how far it is to the temple. Some ask if it is worth the effort; oh yes, it is! By now, the steps are also in the blazing sun. What we also see repeatedly are people, especially women, who are not dressed appropriately. They make their way up wearing hot pants and short dresses or skirts. In our opinion, simply disrespectful - the warning signs are really unmistakable and unambiguous.

Finally, we arrive back down with trembling calves and completely sweaty. We quickly change our clothes - our driver will thank us - get something to eat (there are several small restaurants right in front of the complex), and off we go to the Emerald Pool.

The verdict on the Tiger Cave Temple: the climb is tough, but it is definitely worth the effort! Take your time, plan enough breaks, and then it is achievable. However, be sure to bring enough water. You will lose quite a bit along the way...It is definitely worth setting off early for the visit. This way, you avoid the midday heat and the crowds. And please, show respect and dress appropriately when visiting the temple! Covering the knees and shoulders is really not too much to ask.

Don't let the effort discourage you, you will take away incredibly great memories from this experience! Visiting the Tiger Cave Temple was definitely one of the highlights of our entire trip.