Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Doi Suthep

To reach Doi Suthep, one may need to take a minibus at the foot of the hill next to Chiang Mai Zoo. Just tell any red cab driver "Doi Suthep" and they usually will drop you at the minibus station. The moment we jumped onto the minibus which was basically a modified pickup truck, the nightmare started. Due to fast driving and windy road, we found ourselves get dizzy faster if we were to sit facing side instead of facing front of the vehicle. You may need to bring along some motion sickness pills. To reach the temple, one can either climb 309 steps or take a tram. We opted for the first option and was almost exhausted the moment we reached the top. The result was pretty rewarding as you will be able to have an overview of Chiang Mai town from the top. We recommend readers to spend at least 1 hour here. After all, it will be another 309 steps for you to go back to the car park area. If you are not sure how to worship or make a prayer, just follow the crowd. A minor drawback is perhaps the place can be overcrowded. Also, watch out for your shoe as you need to take it off before entering Gold Chedi compound. The floor can be dirty as well due to the crowd and we recommend readers to prepare a pack of wet tissue to clean your foot before wearing back your shoe.

The famed Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai. A special place of pilgrimage for Thai Buddhists. For the average tourist it is another shiny golden temple. There are more spectacular temples in Chiang Mai in terms of appearances. What makes this special is the view. Pity it was raining and so much fog we could not see any of it!

From the Chiang Mai University, there are many songthaews available. However, since the journey to the temple is 40 minutes they generally wait for at least ten people to carry out the journey, which cost is 80 baht round trip, (based on minimum ten people). Once I arrived I started with the 306 steps staircase, which is bordered by mosaic serpents. There is also a market right before the start where people can buy various souvenirs and clothes. Toilet entrance 5 baht! I appreciated the impressive golden dome-shaped shrine, which was bordered by smaller sculptures of Buddha, super unique view!

Brilliant temple in the mountains. Good views of the city below from the top. If I came again I'd love the challenge of attempting to cycle up to it!

Really nice temple. Unfortunately, a bit too crowded. I would recommend walking up there, hiking up the monk's trail. However, it is very steep and muddy so be prepared! The bright side is that you get to see Wat Pha Matt which is way nicer and quieter!