A Temple on a Mountain

(September 2009 & February 2010)

“If you haven’t been to Doi Suthep, you haven’t been to Chiang Mai.”

That’s a common ‘advice’ you hear about visiting the 2nd biggest city in Thailand.

Although Doi Suthep translates to Mount Suthep, many refer to the temple on this mountain when they mention Doi Suthep. Officially, the temple is named Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

It’s a 25-minute journey by vehicle from Chiang Mai old city.

Locals flock to this temple on special religious occasions while tourists pack this place during the high season.

Besides the golden stupa and the 300-step dragon stairs, this temple is just like any of the other 60+ temples in Chiang Mai city. The only difference is that this temple is on a mountain.

(Note: the golden stupa was under renovation when I visited between Sep 2009 and Feb 2010.)

Don’t worry about the 300 steps. You can take a tram up to the temple.

Due to the less than favorable air quality in northern Thailand during the dry season, you are unlikely to see anything other than haze from Doi Suthep.

“If you have to skip a few attractions in Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep is one of them.”

That’s my advice.