Canadian tourist dies during 1,260-step temple climb in Thailand
· Toronto Sun
A Canadian man is dead following his attempt to climb up Tiger Cave Temple in Thailand.
The man, whose identity wasn’t immediately known, collapsed near the 1,100th step of the temple’s 1,260-step staircase in Krabi province on Sunday, according to the Nation .
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Emergency responders from the Krabi Phithak Pracha Foundation responded and found the tourist unconscious on the steps.
Bystanders had attempted CPR on the man before paramedics arrived, but he could not be revived.
The man’s wife, a 61-year-old Thai national, told police the couple wanted to pay respects at the Buddha statues in the temple, adding that they had previously undertaken similar climbs.
However, this time, she said her husband began to feel dizzy before he collapsed.
The man’s body had to be transported down the steep steps.
Global Affairs Canada said in a statement that it is aware of reports of the death of a Canadian citizen in Thailand, noting that “officials are in contact with local authorities and stand ready to provide consular assistance.”
About the Tiger Cave Temple
The Tiger Cave Temple, also known as Wat Tham Suea, is located about 280 metres above sea level, adding another challenge to the already taxing climb.
The 1,260 steps are notably uneven, narrow and steep at times, and typically takes visitors between 30 and 60 minutes to reach the summit — though the reward is stunning views of the island.
The tragic incident took place three days after a 68-year-old Thai man collapsed and died at the summit of the hilltop shrine.
In March 2023, a 70-year-old Australian tourist died after completing the climb, while two months before that, a 19-year-old German tourist was injured after fainting and falling close to the summit.