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
Thanks Sam!
Sam was on time and professional, made a point to answer our many many questions. He is an experienced guide from the area with many years experience. Thanks for a great and educational experience.
5
Must see in Chiang Mai
An amazing experience, really informative and fun guide (Saman). Knew how to put a tour together and really cared for our wellbeing. We got soaked in the temple and even joined some monks during their morning rituals at the 5 a.m. tour
5
Great trip and we learnt so much
King was a brilliant host. Spoke really good English and explained everything really well as there’s so much to learn you definitely benefit from having a guide. Loved the walk down at the end as it’s such a great way to see the nature and incredible views.
We were blessed by a monk which we probably wouldn’t of done unless we were with King.
Highly recommend.
5
A Personal Touch Tour
We had a super experience with our guide Mr. Samusen. He was very knowledgeable and led us on 2 temple tours, a sunrise tour at Doi Suthep and one at Wat Pha La were we made an offering to the monks which was an amazing experience! He seems to personally know everyone at the temples! He took us on a hike down the mountain which we quite enjoyed. It was a worthwhile and quality tour.
5
Amazing experience!
We cannot say enough good things about this tour.
The two temples we covered were so special, it’s hard to choose which one to revisit! Doi Suthep has striking architecture and stunning views to see the sunrise and the city view.
Wat Pha Lat is the ideal location for a nature lover and is so serene with all the greenery around. We are glad we did the hike towards the bottom of the hill, it was perfect for a non athletic person!
The trip was even more enjoyable with Nancy as our guide! The itinerary was clear and the pickup was on time. Nancy told us so many details and interesting stories on the temple’s history, Buddhism, Thai lifestyle and so much more. She had answers to all of our questions and was very considerate to give us enough time at each spot. She also helped us take great pictures at every beautiful location.
The driver was also very considerate and courteous.
Overall, cannot recommend the tour enough. This being our second tour with Wandersiam, I would be glad to book any of their other tours in the future.