Doi Suthep day trip

Doi Suthep, the famous mountain adjacent to Chiang Mai, offers a treasure trove of breathtaking viewpoints, serene temples, and charming mountain villages. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve put together a unique itinerary that goes beyond the main temple and into the heart of this stunning mountain range.

Rent a motorbike and hit the road

Start your adventure by renting a motorbike from our partner Mai Phare. With the freedom to explore at your own pace and easily park anywhere, you’ll be able to discover hidden gems and parking spots at various points of interest. Just remember to wear your helmet and bring a valid motorbike license – a fine applies if you don’t have one, but it’s a small price (±500 THB) to pay for the experience! (Keep the fine to show it at police checkpoints on other days, if you plan to drive more days in Chiang Mai.)

Oh, and be aware! Regularly, there is a police checkpoint on the way to Doi Suthep located here.

Wat Pha Lat and viewpoints

As you make your way up Doi Suthep, stop by Wat Pha Lat, a tranquil temple with a beautiful view and a river flowing through. Next, visit the small pavilion with a stunning viewpoint overlooking the city. Further up, you’ll find another fantastic viewpoint by the roadside, perfect for capturing Chiang Mai by night on your way back down.

Wat Doi Suthep and Bhubin Palace

Finally, arrive at the iconic Wat Doi Suthep, a must-visit temple with an incredible view of Chiang Mai. You can walk up for free or take the cable car. The temple charges a small entrance fee for non-Thai visitors (around 30 THB), but it’s well worth it for the stunning scenery. Afterward, make your way towards the Bhubin Palace, where you can visit the nearby viewpoint and take in the breathtaking views.

Doi Pui mountain village and Khun Chang Khian

Next, head to the mountain village of Doi Pui, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch of khao soi, relax at the flower garden, and take the stairs down to a hidden part of the village with a cozy coffee shop, beautiful views, and nature. Continue your journey to Khun Chang Khian, the final village in the mountains, and enjoy the peace and quiet before heading back to the city.

Sunset and stargazing at Doi Pui Viewpoint

Make sure to time your return to catch the sunset at the Doi Pui Viewpoint, located on the west side of the mountain. This spot offers an amazing sunset and is perfect for stargazing after dark. After sunset (and stargazing), drive back carefully and feel free to make stops at viewpoints on your descent to enjoy the city by night.

When it’s still before sunset, consider a hike to the Doi Pui Peak. A walking trail starts at the camp ground and there is another entrance a few hundred meters down the road as well. Keep in mind this trail is not accessible during the rainy season (1 May – 30 Sept) to rejuvenate the nature and avoid dangerous situations as of the wet, rainy or stormy conditions.

Malin Plaza night market

After a day of exploring Doi Suthep, satisfy your appetite at the Malin Plaza Night Market, located in front of Chiang Mai University. This bustling local market offers a variety of food and shopping options. You’ll mostly see students around this area and not many tourists.

Before you eat at Malin Plaza, or if it’s still early (before 21:00), consider a visit to the serene Angkaew Reservoir (before 21:30 as after only students are allowed in), located within the university campus, for a tranquil final rest or walk around the lakes before having dinner or heading home.

Be prepared for chilly weather

Don’t forget to pack warm clothes for your Doi Suthep adventure, as the temperatures can drop considerably up in the mountain.

Do you love hiking?

Go on a hike, as alternative to the motorbike trip described above.

You may want to hike up Doi Suthep to Wat Pha Lat and Wat Doi Suthep. Start from the “Monk’s Trail” and hike up from there. The first part to Wat Pha Lat is fairly easy. The second part to Doi Suthep is more challenging. Bring some water and snacks for on the way to give you an extra energy boost. You may walk back down via the same trail or use a Red Truck (or a ride-sharing app) to get a ride back down.

Ride-sharing apps “InDrive” and “Maxim” are usually the cheaper option in- and around Chiang Mai, compared to Grab or Bolt.

Google Maps Link:

For a map of our suggested points of interest, visit this Google Maps link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Hk75NR1FZhywPwTx8