• Wat Pha Lat Monk’s Trail - The songthaew (pickup truck) drops participants at the hike’s starting point, where the journey to Wat Pha Lat begins.

The Monk’s Trail is a historic forest path on the slopes of Doi Suthep near Chiang Mai. This trail winds through the jungle to the tranquil temple of Wat Pha Lat. The name originates from the Buddhist monks who traditionally used this path to travel between the temples and the city before modern roads were built.

NOTES:
The Monk’s Trail is generally considered an easy hike (30-45 minutes) for individuals in normal physical condition. However, some sections of the path are uneven and may be slightly steep or slippery, especially after rain. While most participants complete the hike without difficulty, some guests may find it a bit more challenging. This tour is not suitable for guests with mobility issues.

The entrance fee for Wat Pha Lat Monk’s Trail is not included and must be paid in cash on the day of the tour (THB 100 per person).

• Wat Pha Lat - Nestled in the lush forest on the slopes of Doi Suthep is one of the most serene temples in northern Thailand: Wat Pha Lat. Often referred to as the ‘jungle temple’ of Chiang Mai, it is also the endpoint of the renowned Monk’s Trail.

Built in 1355, Wat Pha Lat offers a unique atmosphere compared to the more crowded temples in the area. Surrounded by dense jungle, the temple complex harmonizes beautifully with its natural surroundings. Ancient stone buildings, moss-covered stairways, intricate carvings, Buddha statues, and small shrines are scattered throughout the grounds, creating a tranquil and almost mystical setting.

A small stream meanders through the temple area, with stone bridges and quiet corners that invite visitors to pause and reflect. With its peaceful atmosphere and stunning forest setting, it is easy to see why many visitors describe Wat Pha Lat as one of the true hidden gems of Chiang Mai.

• Wat Phra That Doi Suthep - Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is regarded as one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Thailand. The temple can be accessed via the ‘dragon staircase’, a staircase with over 300 steps flanked by a ‘Naga’: a mythical serpent with seven heads. Alternatively, visitors can take the cable car (costs not included).

Upon reaching the temple grounds, visitors will see statues, pagodas, shrines, bells, and Buddhist drawings inside. The original chedi, covered with copper, is the most sacred part of the temple. Visitors will learn more about the history of this temple and the significance of the paintings on the wall, depicting the life of Buddha.

Overlooking Chiang Mai from its elevated position, 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, participants will be transported back to their hotel.

Total time includes travel time to Chiang Mai.

• Bottle of drinking water
• English-speaking guide
• Ride in Chiangmai’s signature Red Car (songthaew)

• Entrance fee Phra That Doi Suthep
• Personal Expenses
• Gratuities for driver and guide (optional)
• Entrance fee for Wat Pha Lat/Monk’s Trail

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 adorned in gold, recognized as one of northern Thailand’s most sacred sites. 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 a popular mode of transportation for locals in cities like Chiang Mai, enhancing the charm of discovering Thailand in a genuinely Thai manner.

PLEASE NOTE:
Entrance fees for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (THB 50 per person) and Wat Pha Lat/Monk’s Trail (THB 100 per person) are not included and must be paid in cash on the day of the tour.

• Wear proper walking shoes.
• Remember that temples are sacred places and visitors are required to dress appropriately. Shoulders and knees need to be covered.
• The Monk’s Trail to/from Wat Pha Lat is generally considered an easy hike (approx. 30-45 minutes) for people in normal physical condition. However, parts of the path are uneven and may be slightly steep or slippery, especially after rain. While most participants complete the hike without difficulty, some guests may find it a bit more strenuous. We therefore recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. This tour may not be suitable for guests with mobility issues. If you are unable to do the hike, you can go with the songthaew (pick up truck).
• For the sunrise program (start 5:00 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.
• 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.
• Free pick up and drop off inside the old (walled) city of Chiang Mai. If you are not an actual guest at one of the hotels in our pick-up area, the designated meeting point will be in front of the Burger King at the Tha Pae Gate. Do NOT pick a random hotel from the list if you’re not a guest in that hotel.
• Participants should be aware that pickups will begin up to 45 minutes before the scheduled tour start time.
• Entrance fee for Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (THB 50 per person) and for Wat Pha Lat/Monk’s Trail (THB 100 per person) are NOT included and must be paid in cash on the day of the tour.
• 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. No refund will be provided in case of late arrival.
• Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour start time are eligible for a full refund. For cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance or in case of no-show, no refund will be issued.
• 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.