Travel to Wat Phra That Doi Sutehp in Chiang Mai
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Chiang Mai is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Chiang Mai, Thailand. This historic temple is known for its spiritual significance and breathtaking views. The stunning golden pagoda and beautiful Lanna architecture of the temple delight visitors.
Visitors can explore a serene compound with shrines, Buddha statues, and the calming sounds of monks’ prayers. The views from the temple, especially at sunrise or sunset, offer a stunning view of Chiang Mai. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep offers not only just a place of worship but also a cultural experience that connects visitors to the rich history and traditions of Thailand.
Address: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Opening hours: 6AM to 8PM
The history and legend of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is known as a spiritual landmark with a rich history and intriguing legends.
Foundation and evolution through centuries
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was built in 1383 during the reign of King Keu Naone of the Lanna Kingdom. According to the legend, a monk named Sumanathera from the Sukhothai Kingdom was told in a dream to find a sacred relic, which is believed to be part of the Buddha’s shoulder bone. After discovering the relic, Sumanathera brought it to King Nu Naone of the Lanna Kingdom. Upon its arrival, the relic mysteriously split into two pieces; one was enshrined at Wat Suan Dok. The king placed the another relic on the back of a white elephant, which was then released into the jungle. The elephant climbed Doi Suthep, trumpeted three times, and collapsed, which was interpreted as a divine sign. Following this event, King Nu Naone ordered the construction of the temple at that location, making it a significant spiritual site that continues to draw visitors today.
Over the centuries, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep has grown from a simple stupa to a complex with elaborate shrines and a golden chedi, blending Lanna and Sukhothai styles. The construction of a road in 1935 further increased accessibility, solidifying the temple’s status as a major travel site and cultural landmark in northern Thailand.
Exploring the temple architecture
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a must-see for its rich cultural and architectural heritage. Its location and detailed architecture offer insight into Chiang Mai’s creative past.
The temple on the mountain
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep showcases the creativity of ancient Thai artists. The structural components have been detailed with designs that symbolize Buddhist teachings. The “Viharn” at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep which is a significant structure with a two-tiered roof, symbolizes freedom from attachment, a key Buddhist principle. The Viharn holds important Buddha images and is richly decorated with murals depicting the life of the Buddha and other Buddhist themes.
The iconic Naga staircase
The Naga Staircase at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep features 306 steps lined with beautifully crafted serpent-like figures known as ‘Naga’ or ‘dragons’. These symbols guide visitors to the temple and represent the spiritual journey to enlightenment. Visitors can choose to climb the staircase for a more immersive experience or take an elevator for a quicker ascending, making it accessible for everyone.
Cultural significance and the local community
Dive into Thai culture at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. In this section, you can discover the temple’s important role in the local community and the religious practices.
The role of the temple in the lives of locals
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a vital spiritual and cultural centre for the people of Chiang Mai. This honoured temple is not only a site for daily rituals and prayer but also a venue for important life events such as weddings. Annual festivals such as Loy Krathong and Songkran make the temple grounds particularly vibrant, showcasing traditional ceremonies and dances. Additionally, nearby vendors sell souvenirs and offerings, linking the temple’s importance with the local economy.
Observing and participating in religious customs
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep offers visitors an immersive experience in Thai Buddhism. Participating in the daily dawn almsgiving ritual (tak bat) allows you to donate food to monks and earn merit. In the evenings, don’t miss the Wiang Tian ceremony, where worshippers light candles and go around the chedi. Dress modestly and maintain quiet to respect temple etiquette.
Highlights and must-see attractions
A trip to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep offers more than just the temple itself. Enjoy the stunning views and unique attractions.
The viewpoint at halfway to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
The viewpoint halfway up Doi Suthep offers one of the best panoramic views of Chiang Mai. This breathtaking spot showcases a stunning contrast between the urban landscape and the surrounding greenery. Although the climb may be challenging, the stunning views from this point make the effort profoundly rewarding, providing a memorable highlight of your journey to the temple.
The shrine of Kruba Srivichai
The Shrine of Kruba Srivichai, at the start of the path to the temple, honours the monk who helped build the road. Locals frequently stop here to pray for safe journeys before ascending the mountain, highlighting the deep spiritual significance of this site. Taking a moment to appreciate this landmark not only enriches your experience but also connects you to the local community’s traditions and respect for Kruba Srivichai’s dedication.
Practical guide to visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
In this section, you’ll find the practical details you need for your journey.
- Best time to visit: The best times to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep are early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Arriving before sunrise allows you to enjoy the temple without crowds and witness the serene beauty of the sunrise over the city. Alternatively, visiting in the late afternoon offers a cooler experience.
- How to get there: The most convenient ways to reach are by songthaew (shared red truck) from the Chiang Mai Zoo area for 50-100 THB. You can rent a motorbike and drive the mountain road yourself. For the more adventurous, you can hike a Monk’s trail starting from behind Chiang Mai University, taking around 1.5 hours to reach the temple.
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Dress Modestly: Dress modestly when you visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep by covering your shoulders and knees to respect Thai Buddhist traditions.
Other best places to visit in Chiang Mai
- Tha Phae Gate
- Chiang Mai Night Bazaar
- Doi Inthanon National Park
- Huay Teung Thao
- Sticky Waterfalls
- Mae Kampong Village
- Mon Jam
For an unforgettable visit to Chiang Mai, don’t miss our ultimate travel guide on Chiang Mai to explore plenty of cultural highlights and must-see attractions around the city.
