Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is far more than just a landmark — it is regarded as the most sacred temple in Northern Thailand and the spiritual symbol of the Lanna people.
Founded in 1383 CE (B.E. 1929) under King Kuena of the Lanna Kingdom, its construction represented both a political and spiritual cornerstone. Establishing a great reliquary temple reinforced the king’s authority while sanctifying the land through the relic of the Buddha.
According to legend, a fragment of the Buddha’s shoulder bone was placed upon a white elephant, which ascended Doi Suthep Mountain, trumpeted three times, and peacefully passed away — marking the divine location for the stupa. From that moment, the mountain itself became sacred ground.

Over the centuries, Lanna rulers and devotees continued to restore and expand the temple. In the 20th century, the revered monk Kruba Srivichai, honored as the “Saint of Lanna,” spearheaded the construction of the road leading up the mountain, making the holy site accessible to all. His efforts remain a testament to modern devotion linked with ancient faith.

The golden chedi, shaped in the traditional Lanna bell style, houses the sacred relic deep within. Devotees express reverence by circumambulating the chedi clockwise, focusing positive energy toward the sacred relic. Flanking the ascent is the grand 300-step Naga staircase, its serpent guardians representing spiritual protection and the transition from the worldly to the divine realm.

The temple also carries astrological significance — it is the zodiac temple for those born in the Year of the Goat (Ma Meung), making it an especially auspicious site for merit-making.
Each year, during Vesak (the day commemorating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing), thousands of faithful join the “Teaw Kuen Doi” pilgrimage, walking from Chiang Mai city to the temple in a remarkable display of devotion and unity.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep endures as Chiang Mai’s spiritual anchor — a place where the legacies of faith, architecture, and legend converge, offering an enduring link between the people and their sacred heritage.

By Car:

• Take Huay Kaew Road past the Chiang Mai Zoo and continue along Siwichai Road (Highway 1004) toward Doi Suthep. The road is steep and winding, so drive carefully.

By Public Transport:

• Red songthaew (shared taxis) regularly operate between Chiang Mai University and the Doi Suthep Temple. Another common pickup point is the Kruba Srivichai Monument at the mountain base.

• You may either walk up the 300-step naga staircase or take the electric tram.

• For merit-making, walk clockwise around the main pagoda three times while offering flowers, incense, and candles.

• Dress politely and appropriately for visiting a sacred temple.

• The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and scenic views.

• Bring water and sun protection if you plan to walk up the stairs.

Admission Fee:

• Foreign visitors: Admission fee applies (please check the current rate on the day of your visit).

• Thai visitors: Free of charge.

Opening Hours:

• 05:00–21:00