A few kilometres from Krabi Town, Wat Tham Suea is a working forest monastery set in a lush limestone valley where monkeys roam and monks meditate in caves at the base of the cliff. Its fame, though, rests on the climb: a punishing staircase of 1,237 steep, uneven steps up the karst pinnacle to a golden Buddha, a Buddha-footprint shrine, and a genuinely spectacular 360-degree panorama over the plains, mountains, and distant sea. The ascent is hard and hot, taking most people 30 to 60 minutes with plenty of pauses, so start at first light before the sun turns the rock into an oven, and carry water and wear proper shoes. Keep a firm hold on your belongings, as the resident macaques are bold and quick. The lower temple complex, free to wander, has meditation caves, giant Buddha images, and a sacred bodhi tree, and is rewarding even if you skip the climb. Modest dress applies throughout.
Plan your trip with Seen