The Occasional Pilgrim: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Step inside Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a Theravada Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand, with stunning views overlooking the city.

Gilded statues and brightly painted walls narrate and depict important events in the Buddha’s life. Religion News Service photo by Brian Pellot, 26 October 2014.

The Occasional Pilgrim is an online feature from the staff of Religion News Service, highlighting pilgrimage destinations from around the world.

CHIANG MAI, THAILAND (RNS) Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is a Theravada Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand, situated atop Mount Suthep overlooking the city. Established more than 600 years ago, Wat Suthep is considered one of the holiest shrines in northern Thailand. Legend has it that a white elephant carrying a relic of the Buddha walked up the mountain, trumpeted three times and died here, marking the site as temple-worthy. The stunning views from this this monastery and popular pilgrimage destination are well worth the winding 10-mile songthaew or motorbike ride to the top.

Click on any photo below to step inside.


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