Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

วัดพระธาตุดอยสุเทพ

Chiang Mai's sacred mountain temple, with a gilded stupa holding Buddha relics on the summit, a 306-step naga staircase and a terrace overlooking the whole city. It is a must-visit in Chiang Mai.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep sits on Doi Suthep, about 1,070 meters up, west of Chiang Mai city. It was built in 1383 by a Lanna king to house Buddha relics. According to legend, the temple was founded where the white elephant carrying the relics collapsed after climbing the mountain. It is considered the most sacred temple in northern Thailand. Climb the 306-step staircase from the entrance, flanked by seven-headed naga (dragons). You can also take the funicular for 20 baht. At the center of the temple, a gilded Lanna-style stupa about 24 meters high is surrounded by golden umbrellas, shrines and murals. Monks chant daily, and visitors can carry lotus flowers and circle the stupa three times to pray for blessings. The viewpoint outside overlooks the whole city and the airport, and cloud seas often appear in the early morning during the cool season. Admission for foreigners is 30 baht. Continuing about 4 km uphill are Phu Phing Palace (a royal residence whose gardens open in winter) and a Hmong village. Tips: go up between 6 and 8 a.m. to avoid the crowds and catch the sunrise and morning mist, then head back to Nimman Road for brunch. The city lights in the evening are also beautiful. Getting there: take a red songthaew from the main gate of Chiang Mai University (Huay Kaew Road). A shared ride costs about 40–60 baht one way, and a chartered round trip costs about 500–600 baht. You can also rent a motorbike and take the winding mountain road, a 40-minute ride. Note: long pants and sleeved tops are required. The road has many bends, so those prone to motion sickness should be prepared. The temple is extremely crowded on weekends and public holidays.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Opening hours

Nearby sights

Places to eat nearby