Visiting Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
The Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Wora Wihan temple complex is a Thai Buddhist site located just outside the city of Chiang Mai. From this vantage point, you get a clear view of the city, which sits 13 kilometers (about 8 miles) below.
History
The origins of the site are rooted in various local legends. The story of the white elephant is the most enduring and captures the essence of the site's significance in Buddhist tradition.
The Legend of the White Elephant
The monk Sumanathera reportedly had a dream in which a deity instructed him to recover a relic in Pang Cha. Upon arriving, he discovered a bone fragment believed to be from the shoulder of Buddha. The relic was said to possess unusual properties, including the ability to glow, replicate itself, and vanish. When the monk presented the relic to the king of Sukhothai, it remained dormant, and the king showed little interest. However, Nu Naone, the king of Lanna, heard of the object and had it brought to his kingdom. Once there, it divided into two pieces. One was enshrined at the Suandok temple, while the other was placed on the back of a white elephant that was released into the jungle. The elephant climbed the Doi Suthep (Suthep Mountain), trumpeted three times, and died. Interpreting this as a divine signal, King Nu Naone ordered the construction of a temple at the exact spot where the animal passed away.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Today
It was not until 1935 that a road was constructed to allow visitors to reach the temple grounds easily. The architecture features a blend of Buddhist and Hinduist influences. Inside, you can see a replica of the Emerald Buddha and a statue of the deity Ganesh.
Plan to climb the 306 steps that lead up to the main temple terrace.
Opening hours
*Information subject to change
The Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep temple, perched on a hill near Chiang Mai, has to be earned. There are over 300 steps to climb to reach it, although you can take the funicular.
But the effort is largely rewarded! The visit is really worth the trip. The place is steeped in tradition, adorned with many Buddhas, and it is not rare to spot monks in orange robes. I loved this experience.