Doi Suthep Chiang Mai Temple | Legend Of Wat Doi Suthep
Doi Suthep Chiang Mai is a sacred mountain for the people of Lanna. The peak of the mountain, adorned with the golden spires of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, dominates the skyline of the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai.
For a first-time visitor to Chiang Mai, it is a thrilling way to spend the day. Ascend the 306 steps leading to the temple for both panoramic views of the city and an inner journey of the soul. From the top of the mountain, you can also visit Doi Pui, and Doi Pui Hmong village only a short journey away from the auspicious temple of Wat Phra Doi Suthep.
The Legend Of Doi Suthep Chiang Mai
The Northern Thai legend begins with the devoted monk Sumanathera. One day whilst meditating he has a vision. In it, the monk is instructed to journey to a remote region in search of a sacred artifact. Sumanathera embarks on his quest and, upon reaching his destination discovers a bone.
No ordinary bone. This bone was a fragment of Gautama Buddha’s shoulder, a relic imbued with mystical powers. It was said to emit a radiant glow, vanish at will, levitate, and even replicate itself.
News of this miraculous find reaches King Dhammaraja of Sukhothai, who awaits Sumanathera’s arrival. A grand ceremony is held to welcome the monk, but to the king’s dismay, the artifact displays no magic powers. Doubtful of its authenticity, the king instructs Sumanathera to retain possession of the sacred bone.
News Reaches The Lanna Kingdom
By now legend of this magical artifact has spread far and wide. King Nu Naone of the Lanna Kingdom, captivated by the tale requests Sumanathera to bring the relic to Chiang Mai. With King Dhammaraja’s consent, Sumanathera embarks on the perilous journey north, carrying the precious relic to Lamphun in northern Thailand.
Upon reaching Lamphun, North Thailand an unexpected event occurs. The mystical bone, as if sensing its destiny, splits into two pieces. The smaller fragment is enshrined at Wat Suan Dok, while the larger piece is entrusted to the care of a majestic white elephant. Elephants have long been intertwined with the history of the Thai nation. Released into the wilderness, the elephant ascends the slopes of Doi Suthep.
Doi Suthep Chiang Mai Sacred Omen
Through dense jungles and along treacherous paths, it navigated with unwavering purpose, its progress observed with awe and reverence by the inhabitants of the surrounding villages. Finally, reaching the summit, the magnificent creature utters three resounding trumpets. In a display of profound sacrifice, the elephant then collapses, its demise interpreted as a divine offering.
King Nu Naone, recognising this as a sacred omen, immediately orders the construction of a temple at this hallowed site.
The name of the temple, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, has significance. “Phra” is an honorific title bestowed upon Buddha images, while “That” refers to a sacred relic. The name signifies the presence of a revered Buddha relic within the temple’s sacred ground in this case, the hallowed fragment of the Buddha’s shoulder bone.
306 Steps To Nirvana
The ascent to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is as much a spiritual journey as it’s a physical one. Visitors must navigate the 306 steps of the Naga Serpent staircase to reach the temple a visually stunning and culturally significant passageway.
The climb itself is a meditative experience. As you ascend, the sounds of the city fade away, replaced by the rustling of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the gentle hum of prayers. The Naga statues, with their fierce expressions, seem to watch over the pilgrims, offering silent blessings and guidance.
Reaching the summit is a rewarding experience. The view from the top is breathtaking, but the true reward lies in the journey itself. The 306 steps symbolise the path to enlightenment, a reminder that the journey itself is often more significant than the final destination.
From the top of the mountain, it’s easy to venture further afield to the Bhubing royal palace, Doi Suthep National Park, Doi Pui Mountain, and its fascinating hill-tribe village.
Note: If you don’t want to take the stairs then there is a short funicular railway trip that can also be taken.
Inside Doi Suthep Chiang Mai Temple
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep itself is an example of amazing Lanna architecture, a blend of Thai and Burmese influences. The temple’s most striking feature is the dazzling golden chedi, reflecting the sunlight and casting a spellbinding glow over the surrounding landscape.
Perched atop Doi Suthep, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is Chiang Mai’s most famous temple; and a symbol of Chiang Mai’s spiritual heart.
Inside, the Buddhist temple walls are murals of scenes from Buddhist mythology, while the air is thick with the scent of incense and the murmur of Buddhist prayers. The atmosphere is one of profound peace and tranquillity, a place where the mind can find solace from the physical world.
The temple’s heart is a compact space, a sacred precinct organised around the awe-inspiring chedi. Clad in shimmering gold leaf, this angular, tiered structure is the temple’s crown jewel, its gilded form reflecting the morning sun with dazzling brilliance.
People believe the precious relic of the Lord Buddha is located within the rounded portion of the chedi, just above the octagonal, indented section and beneath the ringed band, a silent witness to centuries of devotion and reverence.
The temple’s architecture echoes that of many in Southeast Asia, with the central chedi strikingly resembling the majestic stupas of Myanmar and Sri Lanka.
Over the centuries, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep has become a centre of religious and cultural life. It remains a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists from across Thailand, who flock to the temple to pay their respects, offer prayers, and seek blessings. The temple also plays a vital role in local festivals and ceremonies, serving as a reminder of the connection between Theravada Buddhism and the community.
A View From The Top
“Old Man Chiang Mai”, as the locals affectionately call Doi Suthep, offers a different perspective on the city. Standing at the summit of Doi Suthep you can see a mesmerising grid of rooftops punctuated by the golden gleam of temples below.
Spot Huay Kaew Road and Chiang Mai University grounds, and in the distance. Emerald-green rice paddies and northern mountain peaks stretch as far as the eye can see. You’ll find yourself searching for famous landmarks in the Chiang Mai old city. Try spotting the iconic Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra Singh.
Getting To Doi Suthep Chiang Mai
Songthaews: The most popular and affordable option. These red trucks ply the route between Chiang Mai city centre and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
Grab Taxis: Very convenient option if you have the Grab app downloaded on your phone.
Motorbike Rental: For the adventurous, renting a motorbike offers flexibility and the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, exercise caution as the roads can be winding and challenging. Also, wear a helmet. The police lie in wait on Huay Kaew Road, and not wearing one surely signals a police stop and a fine.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: There is a small entrance fee to the temple complex.
Opening Hours: The temple is typically open from early morning until late evening.
Tips For Visiting Doi Suthep Chiang Mai Temple
Dress Respectfully: When visiting the temple, dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees.
Bring Water and Sunscreen: The weather can be hot and sunny, so stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: If you plan to climb the 306 steps wear sturdy and comfortable footwear.
Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and traditions. Refrain from touching the Buddha images or monks.
Avoid Peak Hours: Visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid large crowds.
Doi Suthep Chiang Mai temple and its surrounding areas are fantastic places to take the family or experience on your own. You cannot say you have been to Chiang Mai unless you have made the pilgrimage to the temple at the top of Doi Suthep Chiang Mai.
