Doi Suthep Travel Guide
Breathtaking Hilltop Temple
- Ratings:
- Be the first to rate this.
-
Reviews:
-
Be the first to write a review
A major highlight of any visit to Chiang Mai is to join locals and other visitors for the long climb up to the temple of Phra That Doi Suthep. Crowning a hilltop to the northwest of town this important wat offers spectacular views over the city and surrounding countryside, its golden chedi glinting in the sun against a bright blue sky.
Locals would say that you haven’t been to Chiang Mai unless you’ve been to Doi Suthep, the most important and famous Chiang Mai landmark. Built by King Ku Na after a relic from another wat had seemingly multiplied Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was completed in 1383. Legend says that the site was chosen when Ku Na put the sacred relics on the back of a white elephant and set it free: it wandered to Doi Suthep, trumpeted auspiciously 3 times, lay down and passed away. Ever since the wat was completed it has been northern Thailand’s most important temple attracting thousands of pilgrims every year, especially around the time of Maha Puja and Visakha Puja.
Attractions in Doi Suthep
The gold-plated chedi lies in the middle of a square marble-tiled courtyard; to reach it you have to climb the famous naga – serpent - staircase. The four corners of the chedi are adorned with parasols which represent royal regalia.
The temples courtyard is lined by a cloister, which contains images and murals depicting Buddhas life. There are also two viharns situated in the middle of the east and west sides of the cloister.
The views from the top are incomparable, especially at the start or the end of the day.
There are several other temples to see on the mountain which is designated as Doi Suthep National Park and home to more than 300 bird species and nearly 2,000 species of ferns and flowering plants. Some hiking trails in the park pass Hmong villages while others lead to a few small waterfalls where local people come to picnicking on weekends.
Activities in Doi Suthep
Allow an hour and a half at the temple, however this is not doing the mountain justice. If intending to walk the National Park trails allow a full day.
Relaxing
Early morning is a wonderful time to visit as it is cooler, quieter and the views unforgettable – a great start to the day.
Getting Around
Visit by songtaew or taxi if not including on a guided sightseeing tour.
Doi Suthep Reviews
Why not be the first and add your review below?
