Chiang Mai Attractions

Doi Suthep

Some 10 miles (15km) west of Chiang Mai lies the Doi Suthep Mountain, famous for the Wat Phrathat temple perched on the summit. Legend has it that in the late 14th century King Ku Na was looking for somewhere to house a collection of holy relics. He placed them in a howdah (canopied seat) on the back of an elephant and let the animal wander. The elephant proceeded to climb Doi Suthep, on top of which it trumpeted, turned round three times and knelt to indicate that this was the spot. Wat Phrathat can be reached either by a flight of 290 steps, or by funicular, and offers breathtaking views of the countryside.

Transport: Songthaews (red taxi trucks)leave from in front of Chaing Mai University and in front of the Chaing Mai Zoo. They cost around B 30 per person one way; Opening time: Daily 6am to 8pm; Admission: THB 30, or THB 50 including a return funicular ride