| |
 |
Ao Nang - Climb to the Tiger Cave Temple
The Tiger Cave Temple or in Thai "Wat Tam Seua" considered by Krabi's Bhuddists to be one of the most sacred sites in the province. Even for those who are not religiously inclined there are some fascinating features here well worthy of a visit. This can include either a moderately strenuous or a very strenuous climb, depending on which of two staircases you choose. The view from the top, combined with the lovely Bhuddist statuary, makes the summit of the hill an unforgettably beautiful place. Sunset ascents are becoming increasingly popular, especially at a full moon, when it is possible to see the sun setting the islands in the Andaman Sea on fire in the west, while a golden moon rises over the Krabi lowlands in the east. The cave temple is aptly named because of the rock outgrowth nearby, which resembles a tiger's claw.
Tiger Cave Temple is a center for meditation : its spectacular setting in the Ao Luk Thanu mountain ranges provides the necessary quiet atmosphere for meditation. The main vihara or the holy of holies is inside a small shallow limestone cave. Both sides are lined by monastic cells, like caves, which are called kutis. The area is well lit and very well maintained, so preserving the serenity of the environment. Some 250 monks and nuns live in the temple compounds at the moment. This little forest reserve was spared from logging by the monks ordaining the largest trees and thereby thwarting any attempts at logging. For a naturalist the site is a microcosm of Krabi's former natural environment. "Wonderful Tree", not far from the main shrine and adorned in sacred cloth, may well have the largest root base of any tree remaining in Thailand. The whole area is full of caves and limestone rock formations. Archeologists have found remnants of ancient habitations as old as from the stone age. Stone tools, shards of pottery and beads and idols of clay have all been unearthed. All these bear testimony to the cultural heritage of the area.
Click here for hotel reservations in Krabi.
Andaman Adventures - climb, dive, fish, deep water solo, kayak Thailand - Ao Nang, Koh Lao Liang, Railay, Koh Yao Noi, Tonsai, Lao Liang, Koh Phi Phi, Phuket
The best climbing, kayaking, fishing, diving, deep water solo and bouldering holidays Thailand has to offer - Koh Lao Liang, Koh Yao Noi, Ao Nang, Railay, Koh Phi Phi, Tonsai, Phuket.
Click here for Ao Nang page and here for Home Page
|
 |
