Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai
Known as one of the most important Buddhist sanctuaries in Thailand and a major landmark in Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep Temple is one of the temples that you have to visit at least once if you find yourself in Siam.
Perched on a mountain, the temple features an impressive location, a picturesque huge golden pagoda, and a scenic Naga staircase with 306 steps. It will be worth your time and money spent to get here.
Walk up the photogenic Naga staircase with 306 steps
Image credit: @katay_jung13 via Instagram
Before you get to the golden pagoda, a little challenge awaits you. Yes, it is a Naga staircase with 306 steps that you’ll have to walk up to reach the top.
That said, it’s a beautiful staircase that’s decorated with Thai mythical snake motifs on both sides. Upon conquering the 306 steps, which is not that exhausting, a rewarding feeling awaits you once you reach the temple.
Image credit: @rabbyflim via Instagram
While ascending the stairs, do find a nice angle to shoot some photos for your IG feed.
Don’t worry if you don’t want to take the stairs because you can opt for a cable car for ฿50 (~USD1.45)/trip.
Walk around the golden pagoda & observe a view of Chiang Mai
Image credit: @kroekkai.b via Instagram
When you arrive at the top, you’ll see the huge golden chedi called “Phra That Doi Suthep Chedi” sitting outstandingly in the middle of the complex. The chedi boasts a blend of Lanna – the culture of Northern Thailand – and Theravada Buddhist styles. You will see a crowd of people roaming around the chedi with a flower, a candle, and joss sticks in their hands. It’s a way of showing respect.
You can join the ritual by getting a set of flower, candle, and incense, which are available at the temple. Afterwards, you have to start walking around the chedi three times.
After finishing the ritual, you can proceed to the prayer halls situated around the pagoda to pay homage to Buddha images and sacred relics.
Image credit: @hyojun.0402 via Instagram
Before leaving, take the opportunity to take in a nice view of the city from a viewpoint at the temple. From here, you can see Chiang Mai International Airport clearly.
Take a trip to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai
If we’re talking about tourist attractions that are must-visits in Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep Temple is definitely one of them. So, when you’re in Chiang Mai, make sure you pay a visit to this iconic temple.
To find more places to explore in Chiang Mai, head to 10 things to do in Chiang Mai, Huay Kub Kab is a tribal village in Chiang Mai, and Mae Kha Canal is a lovely canal that’ll remind you of Otaru Canal in Japan.
Address: Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200
Opening hours: 6am-8pm, Daily
Contact: +66 5329 5003 | Google Maps
Cover image adapted from: @kroekkai.b via Instagram, @rabbyflim via Instagram and @hyojun.0402 via Instagram