Doi Suthep & Cultural Chiangmai

This morning we visit to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the most venerated Temple in Chiangmai, situated on the hill-side some 3000 ft. above the City in the Doi Pui National Park. From the Temple Grounds there are panoramic views over Chiangmai and the surrounding area. On our descent, we can visit Wat U-mong, the unusual Forest Temple in the foothills of the mountain, after which we can drive into the Old, Moated City of Chiangmai and visit the Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Centre.

From here we continue to Wat Phra Singh, Chiangmai City’s most important Temple. Constructed in the 14th Century, of particular interests here is the Lai Kham Viharn which houses the most venerated Buddha Image in Northern Thailand (after which the Temple is named) and some well preserved murals, also the beautifully architechtured Hor Tham Scripture Hall.

We then visit nearby Wat Chedi Luang, once home to the Emerald Buddha (Now in the Grand Place in Bangkok). The Temple, originally built over 600 years ago, is dominated by it’s massive Chedi, which was partially destroyed by an earthquake in the mid 1500's. Now, the restoration gives an impressive view of this magnificent Temple.

Our Final visit will be to Wat Chiang Man. The City's oldest Temple built by Chiangmai's Founder – King Mengrai in 1296, in the former Palace Grounds. Of note are the Elephant Buttress's around Chedi, which are specific to this particular period, before returning to your Hotel.

(Full Day 08.30am - 17.00pm Approx. As energy and interest permit!)

Merit Making At Doi Suthep

~ Alternative Program for visiting Doi Suthep Temple - but needs an Early Start!! ~

This morning we arrive early at the foot of Doi Suthep we can make merit by giving Alms (some food & drink, etc.) to the local Monks from Wat Sri Soda. This is an amazing and moving site with usually hundreds of Saffron Robed Monks walking out of the Temple.

After this we then drive up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep,the most venerated Temple in Chiangmai, situated on the hill-side some 3000 ft. above the City in the Doi Pui National Park. En route up the mountain we stop for a short coffee break before visiting The Temple itself (before all the crowds arrive !!). From the Temple Grounds there are panoramic views over Chiangmai and the surrounding area.

Handicraft & Shopping

Chiangmai is Thailand's center for various Local Handicrafts, Craft villages and Shopping. Among some of the activities we could see are: Silk & Cotton Weaving; Silver working, Teak-wood carving; Laquerware production; Celadon Ceramics; the Earthenware Pottery Village at Muang Khung and a village community producing Sa-paper.