Doi Suthep, Wat Pha Lat & Waterfall by Local Red Truck Chiang Mai

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai's most sacred temple, standing at about 1,000 metres on the slopes of Doi Suthep. According to legend, it was founded in the 14th century when a white elephant carrying a relic of the Buddha climbed the mountain, trumpeted three times and lay down at this spot. The gleaming golden chedi at the centre is surrounded by gilded umbrellas, bells, shrines and murals, and monks and pilgrims walk around it in prayer.

You reach the terrace by climbing the 306 steps of the Naga staircase, lined by serpent balustrades, or by taking the cable car (ticket not included). From the terrace, the views over Chiang Mai and the valley are superb on clear days. Allow about an hour. The temple is open from early morning to early evening; an admission fee for foreign visitors is paid at the entrance.

Wat Pha Lat, the jungle temple

Wat Pha Lat, whose name means the temple of the sloping rock, is tucked into the forest halfway between the city and Doi Suthep. It was a resting point for pilgrims climbing the old trail to the summit temple, and today it remains one of the most peaceful places around Chiang Mai. Old stone chedis, naga statues and small shrines sit beside a stream that flows over smooth granite slabs, with little waterfalls and stone bridges between them.

It is a working monastery, so speak quietly and dress modestly. On this trip you have about 40 minutes to explore independently, to sit by the water or to find the viewpoint over the city. Many visitors say Wat Pha Lat is the hidden highlight of a Doi Suthep tour, because it feels far from the crowds.

Huay Kaew Waterfall

Huay Kaew Waterfall lies at the foot of Doi Suthep, at the western end of Huay Kaew Road and inside Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. Water from the mountain streams tumbles over large granite boulders into shallow pools, shaded by tall trees, and the air here is noticeably cooler than in the city. It is a favourite spot for local families at weekends.

A short forest trail leads up beside the falls, with rocks to sit on and good spots for photos. You have about 20 minutes here, enough for a relaxed walk. The flow is strongest during and just after the rainy season, from about July to November, while in the dry months the falls are gentler.

Riding the red songthaew

The red songthaew, a covered pickup truck with two benches in the back, is Chiang Mai's everyday shared transport and a symbol of the city. Locals hop on and off them around the Old City and up to the mountain temples. Travelling in one up the winding Doi Suthep road, with the forest air coming through the open sides, is part of the experience.

How to get to Doi Suthep? You can bargain with a truck yourself, but this trip saves the negotiation and links three stops in one half-day with a fixed timetable. Shared departures leave from our tour desk near Chang Phueak Gate at 11:00 and 15:30; private trucks with hotel pickup in the Old Town leave at 07:00, 11:00 and 15:30.