Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, known as Doi Suthep for short, is Chiang Mai’s most well known temple, set at the top of the mountain and a nausea-inducing songthaew ride from the city. The sacred site is important for many local Thais, but once you’ve reached the drop off point, you’re only just beginning the journey. Next you’ll face a steep set of stairs to the temple in the sky, so consider it a pilgrimage of sorts.
Sammi and I visited Doi Suthep during Songkran, so we were sure it would be more crowded than usual. We did our best to make an early day of it, but arrived around 10 am. The stairs were already crowded with Hilltribe children trying to sell tourists photos and food vendors pushing their delights.
We continued past them until we reached the top, where I donned my scarf over my shoulders and removed my shoes.
Hundreds of the faithful were already circumnavigating the great golden stupa once we entered the main temple walls. Everything in sight was gold. The road to the temple wasn’t built until 1935, so before that time, pilgrims had to make the treacherous climb up the mountain. The site of the temple is said to have been chosen by a white elephant carrying a holy relic, the shoulder bone of the Buddha.
Wat Doi Suthep is open from 8 am to 5 pm. You must take a songthaew (red truck shared taxi) from town for 100 baht round trip or alternatively rent a car or scooter. You can also visit with a tour. Entry into the temple costs 3o baht for foreigners. Remember to dress appropriately by covering your knees and shoulders.
Wow, the details on everything are simply incredible!
Hello Caroline,
thanks for your impressions and pictures from Chiang Mai.
Greeting Peter
Hi! I’m going to Chiang Mai next april (songkran) and my main question is how did you get to doi suthep without getting wet?! I just started planning and I’m so lost with how to meet the temples during the water war.
Hey Ariadne,
Sorry to say that it will be difficult to avoid getting wet! I tried my best, but I recommend bringing a poncho or jacket.