Description of the attraction
The shrine of northern Thailand, Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, was founded in 1386 by King Kue Na under miraculous circumstances. According to legend, the relics of Buddha, the most valuable relic, were laid in the chedi (stupa) of the Wat Suan Dok temple in Chiang Mai. However, mysteriously, the relic multiplied, and the question arose: where to place it. Since it was not possible to choose the exact place, it was decided to place the relic on the back of the white elephant and give him the right to choose a suitable location for the future temple. After long walks, the elephant approached Mount Doi Suthep, sounded three times, turned three times and died. The temple Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep was built on the top of this mountain.
The construction of the temple was carried out for several years with great difficulty, all the goods had to be lifted along the steep slopes to a height of 1000 meters through the impenetrable jungle. The road to Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep was only built in 1935. Now getting to the temple is not a problem, and the nature preserved around the road pleases with waterfalls, more than 300 species of birds and many others.
On the way to the temple, pilgrims will face a test: a long staircase with 300 steps. (If you wish, you can use the nearby funicular.) However, all the work will be rewarded: from the site of Vata Phrathat Doi Suthep there is a magnificent view of the whole of Chiang Mai and its surroundings.
On the territory of the temple there is a statue of the famous white elephant, as well as a magnificent gilded chedi, created in the likeness of the Phrathat Haripunchay temple in Lamphun (the main temple of the former kingdom of Lamphun). Surrounding the chedi are 4 delicate gold umbrellas, a delightful example of Lanna art.
At the Phrathat Doi Suthep temple, two of the most important Buddhist events are annually celebrated - Maha Puja (the anniversary of the Buddha's preaching) and Vishakha Puja (the birthday of the Buddha). Both holidays are celebrated with a solemn candlelit procession starting at the foot of the mountain.
