Hike to Wat Pha Lat, the hidden forest temple on Doi Suthep. This secret temple is a beautiful haven of peace, in a garden with beautiful statues.
Then visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the Buddhist temple draped in gold. Overlooking the city from its mountain throne, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of northern Thailand's most sacred temples, and a beautiful example of northern Thai architecture. From the temple you can enjoy a panoramic view over the city.
Pick up from hotels in the center of Chiang Mai by a typical ‘songtaew’ or ‘rot sii daeng’ (a converted pick-up truck with two rows of back benches).
The songtaew drops us at the starting point of the Monk’s Trail where we begin our hike to Wat Pha Lat.
Wat Pha Lat is the jungle temple of Chiang Mai and it is also the finishing point of the popular Monk's Trail, an ancient pilgrimage route.
This hike is along a trail that for many years has been used by monks to ascend Doi Suthep (Suthep Mountain) enroute to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple. It takes between 30 and 45 minutes to hike the Monk's Trail to Wat Pha Lat.
Wat Pha Lat, the secret jungle temple, was built in 1355 and with its old stone buildings, intricate carvings and statues, and plenty of breathtaking places to meditate, it’s clear why people claim Wat Pha Lat is a hidden gem in Chiang Mai.
From Wat Pha Lat we continue by songtaew to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, considered to be one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in Thailand and a must-see for anyone visiting Chiang Mai. The temple can be reached via the so-called ‘dragon staircase’, a staircase with more than 300 steps flanked by a ‘Naga’: a mythical serpent with seven heads. Instead of walking to the top, you can also take the cable car (fee not included).
Once you are at the temple grounds you will see statues, pagodas, shrines, bells and Buddhist drawings inside. The original chedi (also called stupa or pagoda, a conical structure in which sacred relics are kept) covered with copper is the most sacred part of the temple. You will learn more about the history of this temple and the meaning of the paintings on the wall, depicting the life of Buddha.
Overlooking Chiang Mai from its lofty perch, 1053 meters above sea level, the temple is best visited on days free of cloud or heat haze; the view of the city, and the Ping valley beyond, is breathtaking.
Afterwards the ‘songtaew’ will bring you back to your hotel or the meeting point in the city.
Pick up/Meeting point:
- Pick up and drop off from hotels in our regular pick up area (the inner city or just outside).
- If your accommodation is outside our regular pick up area, you need to come to the meeting point: in front of the Burger King at Thapae Gate (Pratu Thapae).
Highlights
- Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in Thailand
- Enjoy the jaw-dropping view over Chiang Mai city
- Hike the Monk's Trail to Wat Pha Lat, the hidden forest temple
Note
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the Monk's Trail Hike to Wat Pha Lat.
- The Monk’s Trail hike is not that strenuous and doable for anyone with a normal fitness level.
Guests who are not able to do the hike uphill/downhill, can go with the 'songtaew'.
- For the early morning slot (5:00 hrs in the morning) we start with a visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. After sunrise we continue by ‘songtaew’ to Wat Pha Lat from where we hike the Monk’s Trail downhill.
- Remember that temples are sacred places and visitors are required to dress appropriately. Shoulders and knees need to be covered.
No flip-flops/slippers, leggings, too tight clothes or revealing tops, otherwise you won't be allowed in.
- Entrance fee for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (THB 30 per person) is not included and must be paid cash on day of the tour.
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157 Comments
5
Excellent tour with excellent guide!
We had the early 5am tour, Saman, our guide was very punctual, he even took us to a local petrol station to buy food/water. Saman was very knowledgeable and from the start he explained in detail the history of the temple. Unfortunately it was cloudy and we couldn’t see the sunrise, but these things can happen at any time. I thoroughly enjoyed the tour, thank you Saman for making extra special.
5
MLP
Meeting up at 5:00am for a sunrise view of the Wat Doi Suthep was the best tour ever. The hike to the top was quick, not too many people at this time, and the weather was perfect. Sasam, our group guide, prepared us well for the tour; booking with Viator. I received a email with information regarding our pick up time, what items to bring and the proper attire for the temple. He was very informative about history of Buddhism teachings and the difference between each practices in Thai, Vietnam and India. Our trip exceeded our expectations. Good pace, finished on time, which gave us the rest of the day to venture out in Chiang Mai.
5
An affordable, enjoyable day trip to two popular Chiang Mai temples
My partner and I had a wonderful time on our tour of the two temples (Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat). We were picked up promptly from our hotel at the specified time and rode in the open-back red truck to the first temple. Our guide, Saman, was knowledgeable, friendly and patient with the many questions of our group members (who were also super awesome people!). The second location in the jungle was very serene and picturesque. We had a very nice experience and the price was extremely fair.
5
The tour to the two temples was very interesting. The guide,
Keng, was excellent as he was knowledgeable and friendly.
The temple st the top of mountain is a must see. The hike down from the second temple was not very difficult. We passed a waterfall and the trail was very scenic . I would highly recommend this tour.
5
I LOVE THE VIEW SO MUCH!
I took the morning tour to doi suthep bu songtaew, quiet cold along the way but the temple and the view up there very nice! Sadly, we’re trying to catch sunrise but the sky is too cloudy that morning.. but still beautiful scene. After walking around the wat phra, we hike down from wat pha lat to the bottom it’s about 2km.
Mr. Sanam is very nice, he bought us food to give to the monks. He also answer my questions about history of chiang mai, explain about buddha and buddhaism also a funny guy! May god always bless him with happiness and goodness!!
Thank you Wandersiam💕