Located at the top of Mount Doi Suthep, the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Chiang Mai. The site is steeped in a deep spiritual ambience, with its bright golden structures that gleam in the sunlight and a scenic staircase leading up to it. Here are some of the temple’s key features and what you can expect to find there.
The Entrance of the Temple
Once you reach the temple from nearby hotels like Travelodge Nimman, you’ll be greeted with the sight of a large golden Buddha statue next to the entrance. You can reach the statue using another path where you can snap a few pictures to start your journey. However, remember to be respectful when taking photos, as this is a revered religious site.
The Naga Staircase
Your journey to the top of the temple premises begins at the foot of the Naga Staircase – a 306-stepped stairway that features two Nagas or dragon-like deities that run along either side of the steps. Despite the daunting appearance of the deities, the trees and foliage that line the staircase add a serenity to the journey.
Reaching the Top
Once you reach the top, you’ll find plenty of pagodas, shrines, Buddha relics, statues and bells, all covered in a layer of bright gold. Additionally, the most mesmerising experience is seeing the stunning views of the city below, which is one of the best things to see in Chaing Mai, Thailand.
The White Elephant
Another notable monument is the statue of the White Elephant at the top of the staircase. According to legends, the statue resembles a sacred white elephant that was tasked with identifying a suitable place for a relic of the Buddha. The statue now stands on the spot that the elephant supposedly chose.