Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple Visit in Chiang Mai

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple Visit in Chiang Mai

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Ratchaworawihan (วัดพระธาตุดอยสุเทพราชวรวิหาร) is a Theravada Buddhist temple (wat) in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.

The temple is often referred to as “Doi Suthep” although this is actually the name of the mountain where it’s located. It is a sacred site to many Thai people. The temple is 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) from the city of Chiang Mai and situated at an elevation of 1,073 meters. From the temple, impressive views of downtown Chiang Mai can be seen.

The original founding of the temple remains a legend and there are a few varied versions. The temple is said to have been founded in 1383 when the first stupa was built. Over time, the temple has expanded, and been made to look more extravagant with many more holy shrines added. A road to the temple was first built in 1935.

The wat can be reached by road from Chiang Mai. From the car park at the temple’s base visitors can climb 309 steps to reach the pagodas or take a tram. It’s also possible to hike up to the temple from the city following the Monk’s Trail.

Once inside the temple grounds visitors must be appropriately dressed and must remove footwear.

Video Source: DOI SUTHEP – Chiang Mai – Thailand – INCREDIBLE ! from The Thailand Travellers on Youtube ⁄ CC BY