description Viking Cave (Tham Phi Hua To) Overview
The Viking Cave, known locally as Tham Phaya Nak, is a prominent sea cave situated on the eastern side of Phi Phi Leh island in Thailand. Its name derives from ancient wall paintings depicting what appear to be European sailing vessels, which early observers erroneously likened to Viking longships. Historically, the cave has served as a licensed and highly lucrative harvesting site for edible swiftlet nests, which are used to make bird's nest soup. Access to the interior is strictly controlled to protect the ongoing bird nest collection.
help Viking Cave (Tham Phi Hua To) FAQ
Why is Phi Phi's Viking Cave called Viking Cave?
The name comes from old wall paintings that appear to show European-style sailing ships. Those images are not proof that Vikings visited Thailand, and the label reflects an early interpretation of the artwork.
Is Viking Cave the same place as Tham Phi Hua To?
The Phi Phi attraction is generally known in Thai as Tham Phaya Nak. Tham Phi Hua To is a separate cave in Ao Luek, Krabi, known as Big-headed Ghost Cave, so listings that combine the two names are conflating different sites.
What is inside Viking Cave besides the boat paintings?
The cave is also associated with swiftlet nests, which are collected for bird's nest soup. It sits in the limestone cliffs on the eastern side of Phi Phi Leh.
Is Viking Cave on Phi Phi Leh or Phi Phi Don?
Viking Cave is on Phi Phi Leh, the smaller island in Thailand's Phi Phi group. Tour boats commonly view it from the water during trips that also include Maya Bay or Pileh Lagoon.
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