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(474)
Art was a fantastic guide—friendly, knowledgeable, and very easy to spend the afternoon with. Always happy and making it a fun time. The hike to Wat Pha Lat and visit to Doi Suthep were both beautiful, and Art did a great job explaining the temples and local history without making it feel rushed. It was raining much of the time, but Art made it all fun. Highly recommended!
Art was a funny guide, and helped us with the pictures.
Our guide was Saman. He was very friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the temples and the history and beliefs of Buddha. He was also very informative about the nature surrounding the temples which I found fascinating. He had good English and a great sense of humour, making the whole trip very enjoyable.
1. The route is well planned and early sunrise is very worthwhile 2. Wake up early to catch the morning classes of monks at Shuanglong Temple and listen briefly 3. The guide has a very meditative state and is close to the puppies in the temple 4. The monk's hike is well worth it.
Great tour with a knowledgeable guide You will see a whole Chiangmai and the historical temples Coming down the mountain was another memorable experience The guide will help you get going
We had a great time visiting doi suthep and wat pha lad. Our tour guide Maggie took great care of us from start (early morning at 5 am) to finish. She is very kind and friendly, and always making sure that we are comfortable throughout our journey. She is also very experienced and knowledgeable about the Buddhist teachings as she is a devout herself. We are very satisfied from seeing all the great views and learning about the temples and monks. Highly recommend booking with this company and guide.
Maggi was a great guide who showed us all the best spots, explained the meaning of what we were seeing, and also answered all of our questions. Would definitely recommend doing the early morning temple tour to avoid the crowds and get some great pictures.
I loved this tour. I picked the 4pm tour and happy I did. It was only me and Eikzy and it was amazing. She was wonderful and answered any and all questions I had. Took my pictures. Will definitely book again.
I had such a lovely and peaceful afternoon — a huge thank you to Maggie! She was super friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to answer all of my questions. My highlight was definitely Wat Pha Lat - the surroundings were absolute lush! The short hike was easy just slippery at few points. I’d highly recommend this tour, especially to anyone who wants to learn more about the sights from a local perspective. Thank you again, Maggie! 😊
I really enjoyed this trip and I highly reccommended. The pictures Maggie kindly offerte to take for me, the care and the passion she puts into her job make it all worth. It's a combnation of culture, wildlife and sprituality. Thank you guys
