Chiang Mai Accommodations near Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

Exploring Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

Wat Phra Buddhist temple is located at the top of Doi Suthep Mountain. It is a Theravada temple, which is the oldest surviving branch of Buddhism that directly derived from the Sanskrit scriptures. Climb the linear steps, decorated either side with large colorful dragons for impressive views over the rest of Chiang Mai. The temple is also known for its white elephant shrine which holds specific religious meaning. The original temple dating around the 14th century has been added to and extended over time and now appears far more extravagant.

Accommodation near Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

As the second largest city in Thailand, second only to Bangkok, Chiang Mai also has a lot to offer in terms of accommodation. Recommended accommodation include the Dream Hills , Sinthana Resort Chiangmai and Sa-Nguan Malee Mansion .

Sightseeing near Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

- Chiang Mai Zoo

If you want to get up close and personal with some of the locals in the animal world, then head to Chiang Mai Zoo. Located next to Huai Kaeo Arboretum, the zoo occupies over 200 acres of the lush forested slope of Doi Suthep Mountain. Here you’ll find a comprehensive assortment of over 200 well treated varieties of Asian and African mammals and birds; look out for the pandas. There is also an aquarium including a viewing tunnel over 100 meters long, replicating the water environment of Thailand.

- Bhubing Palace

This is a vacation home of the Royal Family. When not serving as the Royal Residence, the Bhubing Palace serves as a guest house for foreign dignitaries. Built in 1961, the Palace's first guests were the King and Queen of Denmark. Visitors to the park can also pay a visit to the small hilltribe villages on the park grounds, which offer a glimpse into a way of life that has changed very little in hundreds of years.

Transportation near Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

Getting around by public transport involves just two options – tuk-tuks and the red, converted truck songthaews serving as the city’s buses. Both can be hired on the street, but tuk-tuks are the preferred, if more pricey option as drivers take visitors directly to their destination. To make sure you get where you need to via a songthaew, it’s useful to speak basic Thai.