Wat Phra Borommathat Doi Suthep

Wat Phra Borommathat temple is considered to be one of the most revered and famous Buddhist shrines in the region and attracts visitors all year round. For the many Buddhists pilgrims who come from all over the world to visit the area, it has become a 'must see' on the list of places on their travel itinerary.

The temple, situated at the peak of Doi Suthep some 3,520 feet above sea level, is also Chiang Mai's most important and visible landmark and overlooks the entire city from its forested mountain backdrop. It can also be seen from most everywhere within Chiang Mai city itself, approximately 16 km away.

Getting there is just a short drive from the city up a road that was first built in 1935. The temple is then approached on foot by climbing some two hundred and ninety steps up the steep naga stairway. The less energetic may ascend by funicular railcars. The view across Chiang Mai City and the Ping river valley is breathtaking and makes the exhausting climb worthwhile.

The original temple built by King Gue-Na dates back from 1383 and the present building is believed to be 16th century. Over the years it has been expanded and restored considerably by various Chiang Mai rulers. The temple's glorious golden chedi (pagoda) contains and enshrines many sacred Buddhist relics. The cloisters are painted with bright murals depicting the previous lives of the Buddha and the marble floored area in the middle (that rises to the chedi) is filled with Buddha statues.

Legend has it that an especially holy relic was brought to Chiang Mai in 1371. To decide where it should be enshrined, it was placed on the back of an elephant, which promptly set out to climb the mountain. The elephant finally came to rest and there the relic was buried. The first chedi was built over it and the temple has been continually expanded and embellished ever since. The gold covered chedi is surrounded with a railing and at the four points of the compass are places where people can offer flowers, light joss sticks and apply small squares of gold leaf.

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