Chiang Mai: Wat Pha Lat & Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Tour

Chiang Mai’s spiritual heritage comes alive on this captivating tour of Wat Pha Lat and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Visitors can enjoy the serene ambiance, exploring the lush jungle surroundings and intricate temple architecture. Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide cultural insights, enriching the experience. But the true highlight? Ascending the 306 steps to the iconic golden pagoda, where one can witness the breathtaking views overlooking the city. This is an opportunity to connect with Chiang Mai’s profound Buddhist roots.

Key Points

• This 4.5-hour tour in Chiang Mai visits the serene Wat Pha Lat and the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, with hotel pickup/drop-off and English-speaking guides.
• Explore the lush jungle setting of Wat Pha Lat and climb 306 steps to reach the 14th-century gold pagoda of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
• Gain cultural insights and appreciate the intricate architectural details and peaceful ambiance at both temples during the tour.
• The tour is priced from $22.18 per person and includes air-conditioned transportation, entry tickets, and water.
• Flexible drop-off time between 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM allows for a convenient end to the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 4.5-hour tour allows visitors to explore two of Chiang Mai’s most iconic Buddhist temples – Wat Pha Lat and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

The tour is priced from $22.18 per person and features English-speaking guides, hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and entry tickets.

Guests can expect to visit Wat Pha Lat’s unique jungle setting and climb 306 steps to reach the gold pagoda of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

The tour provides an evening experience of Chiang Mai’s mountain views and serene Buddhist culture.

Flexible timing allows for a drop-off around 8-8:30 PM.

Itinerary Details

The tour kicks off with pickup from your accommodation between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM.

Your tour begins with a pickup from your accommodation between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM.

First, you’ll visit Wat Pha Lat, a unique temple nestled in the jungle, for about 30 minutes.

Next, you’ll head to the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, where you’ll climb 306 steps to reach the golden pagoda housing a relic of the Buddha.

After spending 20 minutes at the temple, you’ll be dropped off at the designated location, the Pharmart C Drugstore, around 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

Visit Wat Pha Lat

After departing from the pickup location, visitors first explore Wat Pha Lat, a temple nestled in the lush jungle landscape.

This unique architectural gem features:

1. A tranquil atmosphere, complemented by the serene sounds of nature.

2. Intricate carvings and detailed Buddhist imagery adorning the temple structures.

3. Stunning views overlooking the surrounding forests and distant mountains.

Visitors have 30 minutes to enjoy the serene ambiance and appreciate the temple’s special setting amidst the verdant jungle.

This sets the stage for the next stop on the tour, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

Explore Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

After visiting the tranquil Wat Pha Lat, visitors climb the 306 steps to reach the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

This 14th-century gold pagoda houses a revered Buddha relic and offers sweeping views of Chiang Mai.

Visitors explore the temple’s intricate architecture, shrines, and statues, learning about its historical and cultural significance.

Visitors enjoy the temple’s intricate architecture, shrines, and statues, gaining insights into its rich historical and cultural legacy.

The serene atmosphere and sound of Buddhist chants create a peaceful ambiance.

Afterward, the tour returns visitors to their designated drop-off point, providing a memorable experience of Chiang Mai’s rich spiritual heritage.

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Evening Views of Chiang Mai

As the tour progresses, visitors are treated to breathtaking evening views of Chiang Mai from the mountain vantage point.

The tour offers several highlights:

1. Panoramic vistas overlooking the city’s vibrant lights and bustling activity below.

2. Serene atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape.

3. Opportunity to appreciate the city’s stunning architectural skyline, including the iconic temples and buildings.

These evening views provide a peaceful and memorable conclusion to the day’s temple exploration, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for Chiang Mai’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Unique Temple Architecture

The tour then takes visitors to explore the unique architectural styles of the two temples.

Wat Pha Lat, set in a jungle setting, showcases an unconventional design with its intricate woodcarvings and sloping roofs.

In contrast, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep’s 14th-century gold pagoda stands as a stunning representation of traditional Buddhist architecture.

Visitors can climb the 306 steps to the temple, where they’ll find the pagoda housing a holy relic of the Buddha.

Both temples offer a chance to marvel at the preservation of these distinct architectural treasures within Chiang Mai’s scenic mountain landscape.

Serene Sounds of Nature and Buddhist Culture

While exploring the temples, visitors are immersed in the serene sounds of nature and the tranquil atmosphere of Buddhist culture.

The tour offers three key highlights:

1. The peaceful ambiance of Wat Pha Lat, nestled in a lush jungle setting, invites visitors to slow down and connect with the natural surroundings.

2. The chanting of monks and the ringing of bells at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep create a calming, spiritual experience.

3. The opportunity to admire the well-preserved 14th-century gold pagoda, a symbol of Buddhist devotion, further enhances the culture.

Important Information and Inclusions

Visitors joining the tour should be aware of the important information and inclusions. Appropriate attire is required, with long pants and sleeves to respect the religious sites. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Children aged 1-3 years can join for free, though no seat is provided. The tour offers flexible timing, with drop-off around 8:00-8:30 PM. Walking on the Monks trail is prohibited. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, entry tickets, and drinking water.

| Includes | Does Not Include |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup & drop-off | Gratuities |

| Air-conditioned transport | Personal expenses |

| English-speaking guide | Anything not mentioned |

| Temple entry tickets | |

Since You Asked

Can I Bring Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. Water is provided, but bringing additional snacks or beverages is allowed. However, it’s best to avoid consuming any items inside the temples out of respect.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. The tour itinerary includes stops at the two temples, where visitors can use the public restrooms. The tour also provides water for participants.

Is There an Option to Skip the Temple Stairs?

Yes, there’s an option to skip the 306 temple stairs. Visitors can opt for a shuttle service to the upper temple instead of climbing, though the full experience includes ascending the stairs on foot to reach the gold pagoda.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Temples?

Yes, visitors can generally take photos inside the temples, though they should avoid disrupting ceremonies and respect any photography restrictions. It’s best to check with the guide or temple staff for any specific rules.

What Is the Dress Code for the Temples?

The dress code for temple visits requires long pants and long sleeves. Short skirts and sleeveless shirts are not allowed. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

The Sum Up

The Wat Pha Lat and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Tour offers a captivating exploration of Chiang Mai’s spiritual and natural wonders. Visitors will be immersed in the serene ambiance of the jungle-surrounded Wat Pha Lat, before ascending to the iconic golden pagoda of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. With expert guidance and stunning views of Chiang Mai, this tour provides a unique and enriching cultural experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: