Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

About Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Overlooking Chiang Mai from Doi Suthep mountain, this temple is the most revered in northern Thailand. Legend tells that in 1383 a white elephant carrying a relic of the Buddha climbed the mountain, trumpeted three times and died at this spot, which King Kuena took as a sign to build a temple there.

Pilgrims climb a stairway of 306 steps flanked by long naga serpents to reach the upper terrace. The gleaming gold chedi enshrining the relic is encircled by bells, umbrellas and shrines, and devotees walk around it holding lotus buds and incense. Each year on the eve of Visakha Bucha, thousands of people walk up the old pilgrim trail from the city through the night.

What to see

• Golden relic chedi
• Naga staircase of 306 steps
• White elephant shrine
• Panoramic view over Chiang Mai
• Monk chat sessions for visitors

Visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: practical guide

Best time

November to February

Hours

Daily, about 6:00 to 18:00

Entry

About 30 THB for foreigners; tram ride extra

Dress code

Shoulders and knees covered; sarongs available

Nearest airport

Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), 15 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Take a red songthaew shared taxi from the city
• Hike the forested Monk's Trail for a quieter approach
• Go early to avoid tour groups and haze

Festivals and special days

• Visakha Bucha night pilgrimage
• Loy Krathong

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
• Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
• Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
• Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
• Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
• Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions