Canadian tourist dies during Tiger Cave Temple climb in Krabi
A Canadian tourist reportedly suffered heart failure and died while climbing the 1,260-step “summit challenge” at Krabi’s Tiger Cave Temple, in what local reports said was the second fatality there in three days.
A Canadian tourist died on Sunday while attempting the steep “summit challenge” at Krabi’s Tiger Cave Temple, one of southern Thailand’s best-known religious landmarks.
The man reportedly collapsed near the 1,100th step of the temple’s 1,260-step staircase as he and his wife were making their way to the mountaintop shrine. Local reports described it as the second fatal incident on the staircase in just three days.
Collapsed near the 1,100th step
Rescuers from the Krabi Phithak Pracha Foundation were called to the scene after the tourist was found unconscious on the staircase. People nearby reportedly tried to resuscitate him before emergency teams arrived, but rescue workers said he had no pulse and could not be revived. His body was later carried down the steep stairway.
His Thai wife, Supanya Srisuthanyawong, 61, told police the couple were visiting Krabi and had intended to climb to the top to pay respect to the Buddha statues there. She said they had completed similar climbs before and that her husband complained of dizziness before losing consciousness.
Calls for tighter safety measures
After the incident was shared on social media, many Thai users called for stronger safety measures at the temple. Suggestions included installing a cable car, restricting access for elderly visitors, and introducing health checks for people attempting the climb, amid concern over the number of accidents and medical emergencies reported on the staircase.
Landmark known for a punishing climb
Tiger Cave Temple, or Wat Tham Suea, is one of Krabi’s most famous spiritual sites. It is widely known for its demanding 1,260-step ascent to a hilltop shrine, where visitors are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views. The staircase is uneven and physically taxing, especially in hot weather.
Recent incidents renew concern
The latest death came only days after a 68-year-old Thai man collapsed and died at the summit on March 26. Earlier incidents have also raised concern about the risks of the climb. In March 2023, a 70-year-old Australian tourist died after completing the ascent, while in January 2023 a 19-year-old German tourist was injured after fainting and falling near the summit.
