Chiang Mai Doi Suthep Temple and Wat Pha Lat Hike
Description
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 Doi Suthep Temple, the Buddhist temple draped in gold, one of northern Thailand's most sacred temples. Enjoy the panoramic view from the top of the mountain over the city. IMPORTANT: This tour is operated with a typical Thai “songthaew”, offering an authentic local travel experience. A songthaew is a converted pick-up truck with two benches in the back, open sides, and no air-conditioning. It’s the most common way for locals to get around in cities like Chiang Mai and adds to the charm of exploring Thailand in a truly Thai way. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS PER GROUP IS 12 PERSONS.
Tour Options
Itinerary
The songthaew (pick up truck) drops us at the starting point of the hike from where we start walking to Wat Pha Lat. The Monk’s Trail is a historic forest path on the slopes of Doi Suthep near Chiang Mai. The trail leads through the jungle to the peaceful temple Wat Pha Lat. The name comes from the Buddhist monks who traditionally used this path to walk between the temples and the city before modern roads existed. NOTES: The Monk’s Trail is generally considered an easy hike (30-45 minutes) for people in normal physical condition. However, parts of the path are uneven and may be slightly steep or slippery, especially after rain. While most participants complete the hike without difficulty, some guests may find it a bit more strenuous. This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility issues. Entrance fee for Wat Pha Lat Monk’s Trail is not included and must be paid cash on day of the tour (THB 100 per person).
Hidden in the lush forest on the slopes of Doi Suthep lies one of the most peaceful temples in northern Thailand: Wat Pha Lat. Often referred to as the ‘jungle temple’ of Chiang Mai, it is also the finishing point of the well known Monk’s Trail. Constructed in 1355, Wat Pha Lat has a very different atmosphere from the more crowded temples in the region. Surrounded by dense jungle, the temple complex blends beautifully into its natural surroundings. Old stone buildings, moss covered stairways, intricate carvings, Buddha statues and small shrines are scattered throughout the grounds, creating a serene and almost mystical setting. A small stream flows through the temple area, with stone bridges and quiet corners that invite visitors to pause and reflect. With its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful forest setting, it is easy to understand why many visitors describe Wat Pha Lat as one of the true hidden gems of Chiang Mai.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is considered to be one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in Thailand. 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 (costs not included). Once you are at the temple grounds you will see statues, pagodas, shrines, bells and Buddhist drawings inside. The original chedi 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 you will be brought back to your hotel. Total time includes travel time to Chiang Mai.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
We only pick up from hotels/accommodations in the old city of Chiang Mai or just outside the city center. If your hotel/accommodation is outside our pick up area, the meeting point is in front of the Burger King at the Thapae Gate in Chiang Mai. Participants should be aware that pickups will begin up to 45 minutes before the scheduled tour start time.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- We recommend to wear proper walking shoes for the Monk's Trail (no flip flops).
- Remember that temples are sacred places and visitors are required to dress appropriately. Shoulders and knees need to be covered.
- The Monk’s Trail is generally considered an easy hike (30-45 minutes) for people in normal physical condition. However, parts of the path are uneven and may be slightly steep or slippery, especially after rain. While most participants complete the hike without difficulty, some guests may find it a bit more strenuous. This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility issues.
- For the sunrise program (start 05:00 hrs in the morning) we visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep first. After sunrise we continue to Wat Pha Lat from where we start the Monk’s Trail and hike down the mountain instead of up.
- As our tours run on a group basis, we can wait a maximum of 10 minutes after the scheduled meeting time. After this grace period, the guide will begin the tour. If you cannot make it on time, please let us know before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available time slot or day, though a rescheduling fee will apply.
- This tour is operated with a typical Thai “songthaew”. A songthaew is a converted pick-up truck with two benches in the back, open sides, and no air-conditioning. It’s an authentic way locals travel around Chiang Mai.
- Our tours operate rain or shine, as tropical rain showers in Thailand usually don’t last long. If it rains heavily, we try to seek shelter and will continue as soon as the weather improves. During the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or poncho. Please note cancellations due to weather are not eligible for a refund.
- Participants should be aware that pickups will begin up to 45 minutes before the scheduled tour start time.
Reviews(439)
Thanks to the guide I had a great time! I was thinking about going, but I think you did really well. Thanks for the explanation.
Maggie was a great tour guide she gave us so much information about the monks and temples and Chiang Mai, I learnt so much!
Because it was low season we were lucky enough to be the only two who had booked the tour here at that time. This did ensure that we got a kind of private tour from a very nice guide who was able to tell us a lot about monks, Buddhism, the temples and their function. Definitely recommended!
Saman was great! Very knowledgeable and interested in the information he was giving us. He was entertaining and would request him next time!
Saman was an amazing guide! Very knowledgeable and funny.
Fantastic experience with Nancy was very knowledgeable and helpful. She made this experience unique and enjoyable.
Wow what an amazing experience today was. With it being an afternoon tour, we drove up and walked back down. You definitely need to be physically fit to do either but it is so worth when when you’re at the top My guide was so knowledgeable, nothing beats finding out more about Buddhism and the temple from a former monk. Such good value for money, would definitely recommend!
I booked the 5 AM tour, and the guide and driver arrived early and were waiting for me patiently. The car ride went very well and did not last too long. We started with Doi Suthep and then Wat Pha Lat. My guide G. Bright was excellent; he provided me with a lot of explanations about everything we saw and about Buddhism in general, and he answered all my questions. I learned a lot from him; it was a very interesting visit. We saw a beautiful sunrise at Doi Suthep and had the opportunity to see monks praying. The hike was great; it is quite short, and we did it downhill, so it wasn't very difficult, but you should plan to come in sneakers! Thanks again, G. Bright, for this visit!!!
Had an incredible day with Saman. He made the entire trip even more enjoyable than it already was. His descriptions of the historical landmarks were fascinating and included good humor. You better like getting pictures taken of you because Saman was not shy to use his camera. He is a very humble man who has the energy of someone 30 years younger than his age. Would highly recommend.
We really enjoyed visiting Wat Pha Lat and going on the Monks trail and finishing at the impressive Doi Suthep temple. We were lucky to have G.Bright who was an excellent guide and offered us great insight and information throughout the tour.
