Doi Suthep Monk Trail
A complete Guide to hiking the Dot Suthep Monk Trail
Difficulty - 4/10
Distance - 7.4 kms
Elevation - 620m / 2034ft
Time - 3 - 4hrs
Cost - 70 baht (2$USD) for top temple
Directions
This hike is very easy to reach from anywhere in Chiang Mai the quickest and easiest way is to rent a car or moped to get here but if you aren't comfertable driving there is also a bus that goes to the nearby university.
To sum it up you can either park at the foothill of Doi Suthep (where there is lots of street parking) or you can reach the trailhead by taking the city bus to Chiang Mai University or Zoo bus stops (bus: R1 or R3) then walk through the University to the trail.
The starting area is located at "Wat Pha Lat Hike (Monk's trail), Unnamed Rd Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand". This is right before the road turns towards the radio station.
What To Expect
This hike is truly a beautiful hike that is mostly shaded going up to Wat Pha Lat Temple and Doi Suthep summit at the end of the trail.
Wat Pha Lat Temple in the middle of the hike its beautiful with lots of beautiful structures. It is very serene and peaceful with a little waterfall flowing through it. Here you will often find the Monks praying.
This temple area is only 1.5kms into the hike and is well maintained by the Monks. If you aren't a big hiker and don't wish to hike more than this you can turn back and drive up to the Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep temple. It is also a nice spot for a for a break before heading up the much steeper second half of the hike.
It can get really hot in the middle of the day so try to start early. Bring plenty of water! Proper footwear is essential.
The second half of the hike crosses the road going to the temple and is well marked and easy to follow! The hydroplanes often follow parallel to the trail.
At the end of the trail you will reach the Naga staircase leading to the temple. This dragon staircase is absolutely beautiful. It is also a lot busier up here. But once you get to the Wat Phrathat Doi Temple it will provide you with beautiful panoramic views of Chiang Mai.
Near the top of the hike there are lots of stores that sell water and snacks if you need to get a "re-supply" for the walk back down.
