Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a Theravada Buddhist Temple said to have been founded in the late 1300's. The temple lies inside Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, and is an active and sacred Buddhist site that invites visitors to tour its mountaintop and intricately-decorated grounds.

Sitting atop the mountain called Doi Suthep, the temple requires a walk up a large 300+ step staircase. Buddhist statues line the hillside at the base of the stairs. Once up the steps, visitors stop at the reception office and pay 30 Baht/person admission. From here, guests remove their shoes before walking around the temple. 

The temple contains a wide variety of statues, icons and art objects steeped with historical references and Buddhist imagery. It is possible to wander the courtyards, pagodas and halls to see the large collection of statues. A patio at the rear of the temple offers mountaintop views overlooking the city of Chiang Mai.

The temple can get extremely busy during Buddhist holidays. There are food vendors just outside the temple. Parking is available in a lot below the temple, where visitors will walk a couple blocks of food and gift vendors to reach the staircase to the temple. It is also possible to hike the Monk's Trail through the jungle to the temple.

Please be respectful as the temple is an active place of worship. Visitors must be modestly dressed and wearing clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is open daily from 5 AM to 9 PM. The temple is located about 15 kilometers from Chiang Mai.