Doi Suthep Day Trip

Doi Suthep rises right beside Chiang Mai, but there is much more to see than the famous hilltop temple. You can visit forest temples, viewpoints, the royal palace, Hmong villages, and higher mountain roads in one flexible trip. Go by car or motorbike, or ask our local guide Dechawat to drive and show you the places that interest you.

Temples and stops along the mountain road

Wat Pha Lat sits in the forest below the main temple. Continue uphill to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the best-known stop on the mountain, with its golden shrine and views over Chiang Mai.

Beyond the temple, the road reaches Bhubing Palace, then Doi Pui Hmong Village. Continue farther to Khun Chang Khian, another small village high on the mountain. Dechawat can combine these stops with the temples and drive the higher road, so you can make a day of the whole mountain rather than only visiting the main shrine.

Hike the Monk’s Trail instead

The Monk’s Trail is another way to reach Wat Pha Lat. The lower section through the forest is a fairly relaxed hike. From Wat Pha Lat, the climb toward Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is steeper and more challenging, though still enjoyable and doable for many hikers. You can also stop at Wat Pha Lat and take a red truck (songthaew) or taxi up to Doi Suthep temple instead of walking the second section.

On the way back into Chiang Mai, Malin Plaza near the university has food and stalls. Ang Kaew Reservoir is another possible stop before returning to town.