Hello, lovely readers! Today, I would like to share with you one of my favorite places to visit in Thailand – Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Located in Chiang Mai, this beautiful temple complex has not only captured my heart but also the hearts of many locals and tourists alike.
As the legend goes, in the 14th century, a monk named Sumanathera discovered a bone relic believed to be from the Buddha himself. This relic was, in turn, enshrined at the Wat Suan Dok temple. However, it was not long before a miracle occurred, and the relic split into two – one piece was small enough to fit on the back of a white elephant, and the other was bigger and stayed at Wat Suan Dok.
The elephant carrying the smaller relic climbed up the Doi Suthep mountain until it reached the top, trumpeting a call three times before it peacefully passed away. This was seen as a divine sign, and King Kuena of the Lanna kingdom ordered for a new temple to be built at the site where the elephant died. That temple is none other than Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – a place that now symbolizes the richness of Northern Thailand's culture and religion.
Nowadays, the golden spire of the temple can be seen from various viewpoints in Chiang Mai, and although it may be a bit challenging to get to, the experience is well worth it. So, let's dive into the wonders of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and discover why it should be on your travel bucket list when visiting Thailand!
Overview of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
Nestled atop a mountain peak overlooking the culturally rich city of Chiang Mai, Thailand lies the astounding Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. This sacred site is one of Thailand's most significant landmarks and attracts visitors from all over the world, making it somewhat of a pilgrimage site for Buddhists. A vast majority of guests hail from Bangkok, many of whom make the trip to the northern city especially to marvel at the exquisiteness and grandeur of this majestic place, which remains one of the country's unique treasures.
Historical significance of the monuments
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is more than just an attraction – it's also a symbol of a long-held reverence for the sacred in Southeast Asia. The reverence for the Buddhist faith is deeply embedded in Thai culture, and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep stands as a significant representation of this faith. The temple has a rich history dating back to the 14th century, when the legendary local king named Pha Yu was credited with founding it. According to history, King Pha Yu was inspired to create Wat Phra That Doi Suthep after witnessing a miraculous sign on the sacred mountain. The stories suggest that a relic of the historical Lord Buddha was mounted on a white elephant that was released to roam the mountains. The elephant eventually fell at the top of the mountain, and it was believed to be a divine sign that urged the creation of the temple.
Golden Pagoda and the legend of the white elephant
The temple's distinctive gold-plated pagoda is a major highlight of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Although the temple complex has numerous structures that are aesthetically pleasing, the Golden Pagoda remains the most recognizable feature of this impressive site. Legend has it that after the white elephant assigned to the site died, a replica of the historical Lord Buddha's shoulder bone was found buried on the site. This prompted the construction of the Golden Pagoda to house the holy relic. The image of the Golden Pagoda glimmering in the sunshine is a memory that visitors take with them long after they leave this holy site.
Breathtaking views from the mountaintop
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep's vantage position at the peak of Doi Suthep offers some breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As visitors ascend the winding mountain road, they catch glimpses of Chiang Mai's sprawling urban landscape, which is punctuated by dense forests, pristine rivers, and verdant valleys that stretch far into the horizon. On clear days, you can even see beyond the city limits and into the distant mountain ranges, adding to the site's overall immense beauty.
Steps to reach the temple and the cable car
There are two options to reach the temple – on foot by climbing the 306 steps or by a cable car ride. The winding stairway leading up to the site can be daunting, but it’s an exciting experience, especially for visitors that enjoy trekking. It's a chance to enjoy the cool natural air and soak up the beauty of the surrounding areas. Alternatively, visitors can save their energy and take a trip up the hill with the cable car. The cable ride is exhilarating, presenting a bird’s eye view of the temple complex and the surrounding landscapes.
Intricate murals and Buddha statues at the temple
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep isn't just a stunning temple structure; it’s also a living museum. As you explore the site, you'll come across beautifully crafted murals depicting stories from the life of Buddha along with inscriptions in the local language. The temple houses several Buddha statues, each with a fascinating story of its own. Visitors who appreciate history and culture will enjoy immersing themselves in the mysteries and legends surrounding the temple.
Tips for visiting the monuments
Visitors to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep should come with an open mind and a spirit of exploration. The humid Thai weather warrants a cool and comfortable outfit, so wear breathable clothes and comfortable shoes if climbing the stairs. It’s advisable to bring a hat and shades for protection from the sun. Covering up is essential, as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is still an active place of worship, and visitors are expected to dress appropriately. Be prepared to encounter several visitors from Thailand, and the site can be crowded on weekends and national holidays. In general, heading in early (before 10 am) on weekdays is a good idea.
In conclusion, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep offers more than just beauty – it's a cultural gem that tells the story of a people's devotion to Buddhism and spirituality. A trip to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep can be part of a broader Thailand cultural tour, which includes numerous other wondrous temples and attractions that Thailand has to offer. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is just one of the many unique experiences that visitors can enjoy in Thailand. When planning your next Thailand cultural expedition, make sure to put a Wat Phra That Doi Suthep visit high on your list.
