Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Chiang Mai
With its remarkable golden spires, intricate filigree ceremonial umbrellas, and dramatic Naga (water spirit) staircase, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a feast for the eyes and a must-see destination on any Chiang Mai itinerary.
Tips for Visiting Wat Doi Suthep
To make the most of your visit to this sacred Buddhist temple,
here are our top tips:
1. Go Before Sunrise.
Located a little less than 10 miles (~15 km) outside of Chiang Mai, Wat Doi Suthep is a very popular tourist destination and it is often quite crowded by mid-morning. Both to avoid the crowds and in order to participate in the stunningly beautiful and spiritually moving early morning almsgiving ceremony, go well before dawn.
Ideally arrive before 6:00 am in order to watch the sunrise over Chiang Mai and to hear the monks chanting their morning prayers. It is an unforgettable experience. Arriving early is key. Please trust us on this. In order to give yourself enough time to purchase alms, try to leave Chiang Mai by 5:00 am.
2. Bring Alms.
Alms come in pre-wrapped packages, especially for almsgiving. They can be purchased at the local morning markets near the temple. Typically, these cost about 100 baht per package (approximately $3.00).
Buy at least one package for each member of your party to give, ideally multiple packages per person. Alms are the only sustenance that the monks will receive for the entirety of the day.
3. Take Time to Enjoy the Beauty of the Sunrise over Chiang Mai.
On the day we visited, only a few other sleepy tourists had also braved such an early morning voyage and the grounds were almost entirely deserted upon our arrival. The only light was a soft glow from within the temples, the only sound the rhythmic chanting of the monks as they completed their morning prayers. It was unbelievably peaceful.
As the monks chanted, we watched the sun rise over Chiang Mai.
Seeing the stunning golden chedi illuminated by the soft pink glow of dawn was absolutely breathtaking.
4. The Almsgiving Ceremony Typically Takes Place Between 6:00 and 8:00 am, So Be Sure to Arrive Early.
Gifts of food and drink are placed directly into the monks’ metal bowls or urns, providing them with their day’s nourishment. Please avoid handing the alms directly to the monks or touching them in any way.
During the almsgiving, the monks sing and chant, bestowing blessings on all in attendance. Seeing the monks in their gorgeous saffron robes and receiving their good wishes was one of the highlights our trip to Chiang Mai.
5. Dress Appropriately.
As this is a holy place of worship, respectful dress is required. Women must cover their shoulders and all skirts should be at least knee length. Short are not allowed for either gender. If needed, sarongs are available for rent at the entrance.
6. Hire a Guide.
This amazing experience can certainly be accomplished on your own by taking a “red car” or songthaew (about 400 baht each way). However, if funds allow, we recommend that you hire a guide. Your transportation will be provided, ensuring that you arrive before sunrise, and you will be aided in purchasing alms. We learned so much from our guide, a former monk, about Buddhist monastic training and the history of this remarkable temple.
We booked a sunrise tour through Untouched Thailand, and we were very pleased with our experience. The tour also included a visit to Wat Palad, a serene and often-missed hidden jungle temple. With door-to-door service and tremendous knowledge imparted by a kind English-speaking guide, it was well worth the 1950 baht per person (~$60.00).
Please note that the funicular for mobility-challenged guests does not begin running until 6:00 am. If you arrive before this time, entry to the temple requires climbing the impressive 306-step Naga staircase.
We hope that you will love your sunrise visit to Wat Doi Suthep as much as we did.
Journey Far. Be Well.
Danielle and Tom