A Canadian tourist died trying to summit the Tiger Cave Temple in Thailand’s Krabi, officials said.
The man reportedly collapsed near the 1,100th step of the temple’s 1,260-step staircase. He was climbing to the top along with his 61-year-old Thai wife when he died on 29 March.
The man’s identity wasn’t immediately known.
The incident occurred three days after a 68-year-old Thai man collapsed and died at the summit.
The Tiger Cave Temple, also known as Wat Tham Suea, is one of Thailand’s best-known religious sites. It’s known for the demanding 1,260-step ascent to the hilltop shrine, where tourists are rewarded with stunning views of the island. Climbing the stairs is especially taxing during hot weather.
Emergency responders from the Krabi Phithak Pracha Foundation went to the location after the tourist was discovered unconscious on the staircase.
Bystanders reportedly attempted reviving the man before paramedics arrived, but rescue personnel reported that he had no pulse and could not be brought back.
His body was subsequently transported down the steep steps.
According to police, the man’s wife said he had complained of feeling dizzy shortly before collapsing.
She said they were in Krabi on a visit and were going to the temple to pay respects at the Buddha statues. The couple had undertaken similar climbs in the past, she said.
Following the incident, many Thai social media users urged authorities to introduce stricter safety precautions at the temple.
Proposals ranged from installing a cable car to limiting access for older visitors and implementing health screenings for those attempting the climb amid growing concerns over repeated accidents and medical emergencies on the staircase.
In March 2023, a 70-year-old Australian tourist died after completing the climb, while in January 2023, a 19-year-old German tourist was injured after fainting and falling close to the summit.
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