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
Great Tour
A beautiful trip to see the sunrise and learn about the temples! Highly recommend doing early morning 5am the temperature was perfect.
5
Chiang Mai – Doi Suthep Temple & Wat Pha Lat Hike
Had a great time hiking, seeing and learning the history and culture of the temples! I recommend doing the sunrise hike for the view.
5
We loved this tour!
The hike up to the temple grounds was a great way to start this tour. Our guide, Malee, was very knowledgeable and friendly and made this a great experience, we would definitely recommend this tour.
5
Fun!
Went for the Doi Suphet sunrise tour and MaLee was friendly and enthusiastic despite the early hours! She was a great photographer too. I enjoyed the tour. The sunrise and temples were beautiful.
5
An Unforgettable Sunrise Temple Tour with Nancy – A Perfect 5/5 Experience!
From the magical moment the sun began its ascent over Chiang Mai, our temple tour transformed into an extraordinary adventure, one that I am eager to share. Our guide, Nancy, was the heart and soul of this experience. Her warmth, kindness, and deep knowledge of the temples we visited, as well as the local customs and traditions, made our tour not just informative but genuinely heartwarming.
We started our day early, greeted by the serene beauty of the sunrise at two of Chiang Mai’s most revered temples. The tranquility of the morning, combined with the spiritual ambiance of the temples, set a magnificent tone for the day. However, what truly set this tour apart was our descent down the Monks’ Trail. Walking the same paths as the monks do, surrounded by nature’s splendor, was a humbling and beautiful experience.
Nancy’s expertise shone brightly as she shared details, customs, and invaluable tips throughout our journey. Her passion for her culture and her eagerness to share it with us made every moment memorable. Moreover, the exclusivity of our group, being only three, afforded us a private tour feel that allowed for personalized interactions and a deeper connection with the places we visited.
This tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Chiang Mai. Not only do you get to witness the breathtaking beauty of the temples at sunrise, but you also get to learn about the rich culture and traditions of this beautiful city, all thanks to Nancy’s exceptional guidance. Her kindness and attentiveness to our interests and comfort made our experience truly special.
I cannot recommend this tour enough. It’s a perfect 5/5 for anyone looking to explore Chiang Mai’s spiritual heritage with a genuinely caring and knowledgeable guide. Thank you, Nancy, for an unforgettable day that has left us with memories we will cherish forever.