Located in Doi Suthep-Pui National Park in Chiang Mai, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a Theravada Buddhist temple with aspects of the temple drawing from Hinduism. It is located near the peak of Doi Suthep mountain and is accessed by ascending 306 steps flanked by Naga snake figures. Nagas are sacred water serpents that are said to bridge the gap between the earth and the sky, which you will come to believe as you climb the steps leading to the temple.
There is a beautiful story behind this temple that is sure to leave you eager to visit.
The first chedi, or stupa (a ceremonial burial mound for Buddhist saints, Buddas, and relics), is one of the most sacred sites of the region. It is said that the relic it houses is the shoulder bone of Gautama Buddha. According to legend, the bone displayed magical powers: it glowed and could vanish, move, and replicate itself. The bone was taken to King Nu Naone of Lan Na in 1368, where it broke into two pieces. The larger piece was placed on the back of a white elephant, which was released into the jungle and thereafter climbed up Doi Suthep, trumpeted three times, and dropped dead. Seeing this as an omen, King Nu Naone immediately ordered for the construction of the temple. The first chedi is still a working monastery today.
Navigating Your Way Through the Temple
The temple is divided by stairs into two main sections - an outer terrace and an inner terrace. The outer terrace overlooks the city below, providing a view of Chiang Mai that stretches on for miles. The grounds here are full of lush greenery which provides shade over the many monuments and rock gardens of the area. Devout Buddhists come to touch a set of temple bells (known as rakhang) in order to receive good fortune.
Within the inner terrace, gold shines in every direction. Though difficult to look away from the 79-foot gold-plated chedi, there is much to be seen here. A gleaming five-tiered umbrella signifies the city's independence from Burma and its union with Thailand. Lotus blossoms and other offerings are placed among the shrines surrounding the chedi. And tiny golden bells hang from the eaves of orange-tiled rooftops. It is quiet and peaceful in the inner terrace, and those who wish can participate in a variety of religious outreach programs offered by the Doi Suthep Vipassana Meditation Center.
Statues Abound in the Temple
Throughout the temple, you'll find many statues depicting various gods and Buddhas of the Thai religion. Each standing in a different pose, the statues are made from semi-precious stones and are grouped into impressive displays full of texture and color. Of particular interest to visitors is the model of the Emerald Buddha, which was carved from jade. The significance of the Emerald Buddha is that it is the palladium, or protective image, of Thailand. Many believe that the safety of the nation depends on this Buddha.
Visitor Information
So, now that you know you want to visit, let's talk about the fine print. The entrance fee to the temple is 30 THB (Thai Baht), which is equivalent to $0.97 USD. There are many tours available, including those that combine other activities, for a very reasonable price. I had the distinct pleasure of visiting the temple with REI Adventures, whose guides are local citizens full of knowledge and enthusiasm for sharing their culture with others. I could not recommend REI's trips more.
The temple is open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and visitors are encouraged to plan on spending at least a couple of hours exploring here. You can also spend your day hiking the trails and seeing some great waterfalls in the national park housing the temple.
Remember to dress in modest attire, with shoulders and knees covered. Wraps are available for purchase for those of you that may not be prepared. Spontaneity is, of course, the spice of life. Besides, such a wrap makes for a great souvenir to drape over a chair when you get home. Cheers to happy travels, friends.
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