• Wat Pha Lat Monk’s Trail - Wat Pha Lat is the jungle temple of Chiang Mai and it is also the finishing point of the popular Monk’s Trail, an ancient pilgrimage route.

The songthaew (pick up truck) drops us at the starting point of the hike from where we start walking to Wat Pha Lat. This hike is along a trail that for many years has been used by monks to ascend Doi Suthep (Suthep Mountain) enroute to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple. It takes between 30 and 45 minutes to hike the monk’s trail to Wat Pha Lat.

Welcome to Wat Pha Lat, the secret jungle temple! This temple was constructed in 1355 and with its old stone buildings, intricate carvings and statues, and plenty of breathtaking places to meditate, it’s clear why people claim Wat Pha Lat is a hidden gem in Chiang Mai.

Total time includes travel time from Chiang Mai.

• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep - Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is considered to be one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in Thailand. The temple can be reached via the so-called ‘dragon staircase’, a staircase with more than 300 steps flanked by a ‘Naga’: a mythical serpent with seven heads. Instead of walking to the top, you can also take the cable car (costs not included).

Once you are at the temple grounds you will see statues, pagodas, shrines, bells and Buddhist drawings inside. The original chedi covered with copper is the most sacred part of the temple. You will learn more about the history of this temple and the meaning of the paintings on the wall, depicting the life of Buddha.

Overlooking Chiang Mai from its lofty perch, 1053 meters above sea level, the temple is best visited on days free of cloud or heat haze; the view of the city, and the Ping valley beyond, is breathtaking.

Afterwards you will be brought back to your hotel.

Total time includes travel time to Chiang Mai.

• Bottle of drinking water
• English speaking guide
• Signature Chiangmai Red Car (songthaew)

• Personal Expenses
• Gratuities for driver and guide (not mandatory)
• Entrance fees

Embark on a hike to Wat Pha Lat, a hidden gem nestled in the forest on Doi Suthep. This secret temple offers a serene retreat, surrounded by a garden adorned with stunning statues.

Next, explore Doi Suthep Temple, a revered Buddhist temple enveloped in gold, and one of the most sacred sites in northern Thailand. Relish the breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the mountain’s summit.

IMPORTANT:
This tour is conducted using a traditional Thai “songthaew,” providing an authentic local travel experience. A songthaew is a modified pick-up truck featuring two benches in the back, open sides, and no air-conditioning. It is the most popular mode of transport for locals in cities like Chiang Mai, enhancing the charm of discovering Thailand in a genuinely Thai manner.

THE MAXIMUM NUMBER OF PARTICIPANTS PER GROUP IS 12 PEOPLE.

• Wear proper walking shoes
• Remember that temples are sacred places and visitors are required to dress appropriately. Shoulders and knees need to be covered.
• If you cannot do the hike up the mountain, you can go up with the songthaew (pick up truck)
• For the sunrise program (start 04:30 hrs in the morning) we visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep first. After sunrise we continue to Wat Pha Lat from where we start the Monk’s Trail and hike down the mountain instead of up.
• As our tours run on a group basis, we can wait a maximum of 10 minutes after the scheduled meeting time. After this grace period, the guide will begin the tour. If you cannot make it on time, please let us know before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available time slot or day, though a rescheduling fee will apply.
• This tour is operated with a typical Thai “songthaew”. A songthaew is a converted pick-up truck with two benches in the back, open sides, and no air-conditioning. It’s an authentic way locals travel around Chiang Mai.
• Our tours operate rain or shine, as tropical rain showers in Thailand usually don’t last long. If it rains heavily, we try to seek shelter and will continue as soon as the weather improves. During the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or poncho. Please note cancellations due to weather are not eligible for a refund.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.