Phra Nang Cave - Krabi
Myths and mystery surround this fascinating and sacred place. Fishermen leave offerings to Phra Nang in the hope of safe sea travel and a bountiful catch. Some leave wooden sculpted phallus in the hope of increasing fertility.
There are many legends about Phra Nang dating back centuries. In one, she is an Indian princess killed at sea. In another, she was the wife of a fisherman lost at sea who lived out her life in the cave, awaiting his return.
Today, local fisherman and boatmen leave offerings to ensure safe sea travel. Over the centuries, Phra Nang cave has also become associated with fertility. People seeking to conceive adorn the cave with offerings of carved phallus. A sign of the Hindu god Shiva, in Thailand Hindu beliefs are often incorporated into Buddhism.
Some locals believe that if a handmade wooden phallus is released anywhere along the Krabi coast at high tide it will eventually end up in the cave.
Phra Nang Cave is a sacred place for Thai people. Please treat the site with respect. Wear modest clothing and do not touch the offerings.
Things to do:
Wat Tham Seua – Tiger Cave Temple
Tucked away in ancient forest, Wat Tham Seua is a natural wonder. The temple consists of dozens of natural caves at the foot of a sheer limestone cliff. Established in the 1970's, a monk named the Temple after a tiger entered the cave where he was meditating. Legend says the tiger left the cave without harming the monk. It is also said there are tiger’s footprints found in the walls of the cave.
Rock Climbing
The world’s best rock climbers flock to Railay in Krabi Province to conquer the sheer karst limestone cliffs jutting out from the mangroves. The undisputed climbing mecca of Southeast Asia, Railay has over 700 bolted routes that range from beginner to expert. Climbing schools teach all levels, and pretty much all ages. Tour groups cater for singles through to families. This is a rock climber’s paradise.
