First time visitors to Chiang Mai are sure to take notice of the
mountain which borders the western edge of the city. Northern Thailand
is known for its many mountain ranges and Doi Pui is the eighth highest
peak in Thailand. Chiang Mai's famous Doi Suthep temple sits on the
eastern side of this mountain and looks out over the city. The official
name is Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep and it has kept its eye on Chiang Mai
for hundreds of years. On a clear day, the temple can be seen from
locations throughout the Ping valley.
Legend has it that the present day site was chosen by divine
intervention. A relic of the Lord Buddha was placed on the back of an
elephant. The elephant then headed toward the mountain and after three
days of wandering it died at the current location of Doi Suthep temple.
The relic is believed to be buried under the chedi in the courtyard of
Chiang Mai's famous temple.
Doi Suthep is a must see Chiang Mai attraction for first time visitors
to Chiang Mai. Temples are an important part of life in Thailand and the
temple on Doi Suthep is almost as famous as the Temple of the Emerald
Buddha in Bangkok. One of the unique features of this Chiang Mai
attraction is the over 300 step staircase which is bordered by mythical
naga snakes. The climb to the top of the stairs is not an easy endeavor,
but the view at the top is well worth it.
If you wish to enter the inner temple area, adherence to a dress code is
required. Don't worry; there is clothing to borrow for those who may
not be prepared for the strict dress code. The large chedi in the sacred
temple area is the center of many photos which represent the city of
Chiang Mai. This inner area is often busy with Thai nationals making
merit at several designated altars.
The outer courtyard has much activity as well. Tourists and Thai
pilgrims alike often take pictures of the many Buddha images and the
view of the city below. One of my favorite attractions in this outer
courtyard is the row of bells and gongs on the outside sanctuary wall.
It is okay to ring the bells for good luck. Doi Suthep temple is a
popular Chiang Mai attraction for locals and foreigners.
Every tourist site, whether for foreign or local tourists, offers any
array of small restaurants and shops selling souvenirs. The area around
Doi Suthep temple is no different from other tourist areas. There is no
need to pack a lunch or even to bring drink along on your trip to the
mountain. Anything you need for basic survival can be purchased on the
spot. Unlike western countries, prices for food and drink are rarely
inflated in the tourist areas.
Getting to the temple is very easy. Every taxi and songthaew driver in
Chiang Mai will be able to find their way up the winding road to the
base of the temple. Many taxis sit at the base of the mountain near the
entrance to Chiang Mai zoo waiting for passengers to whisk up the road
for a morning at Doi Suthep temple.
Entrance to the temple is free for Thai nationals, but foreign tourists
are asked to
make a 30 baht donation. This is a small price to pay for
an opportunity to visit the most famous Chiang Mai attraction.
By
D. L. Zimmerman
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