Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep Temple and Old City Walking Tour

Chiang Mai, the northern gem of Thailand, offers a captivating blend of ancient temples and vibrant local culture. The Doi Suthep Temple and Old City Walking Tour promises to immerse visitors in this rich heritage. From ascending the iconic dragon staircase to exploring historic landmarks, this six-hour adventure unveils the city’s enchanting depths. Travelers can savor authentic northern Thai cuisine and join a small group for a truly memorable experience. Whether seeking spiritual insight or cultural exploration, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through Chiang Mai’s enduring legacy.

Key Points

• The tour provides a 6-hour experience exploring the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple and the historic landmarks of Chiang Mai’s Old City.
• Participants can ascend to the Doi Suthep temple via 306 steps of the dragon staircase or by cable car.
• The tour includes a 45-minute lunch break with authentic northern Thai dishes.
• The walking tour of the Old City focuses on the history of Chiang Mai’s founders and prominent sites such as Wat Chedi Luang.
• The tour includes round-trip transportation, a professional guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off services.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The "Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep Temple and Old City Walking Tour" is a 6-hour activity priced at $32.59 per person.

Limited to 9 participants, it’s conducted in English with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes round-trip transportation to Doi Suthep, a Thai lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees.

Visitors will ascend the dragon staircase or take the cable car to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, explore historic temples and landmarks in the old city, and learn about Chiang Mai’s founders.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Itinerary Highlights

Starting at the Tolani Northgate Villa Chiang Mai, the tour first takes visitors to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most sacred temples in Thailand.

Travelers can ascend the 306 steps of the dragon staircase or take the cable car to reach the temple. Once there, they’ll view the golden chedis and serene Buddhist statues, learning about the temple’s spiritual significance.

Next, the tour explores Chiang Mai’s historic Old City, visiting landmarks like the Three Kings Monument and the impressive Wat Chedi Luang.

Travelers enjoy a 45-minute lunch, savoring authentic northern Thai dishes, before continuing the walking tour.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Visitors ascend the 306 steps of the dragon staircase or take the cable car to reach Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most sacred temples.

The golden chedis and serene Buddhist statues within the temple complex captivate visitors. They’ll learn about the temple’s spiritual significance, which dates back to the 14th century when the temple was founded.

Pilgrims come to pay respects and make merit. Exploring the temple grounds offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city below, allowing visitors to enjoy Chiang Mai’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Old City Walking Tour

After visiting the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the walking tour then explores the historic landmarks within Chiang Mai’s Old City. Participants will discover the Three Kings Monument, learning about the city’s founders, and marvel at the impressive Wat Chedi Luang, which once housed the revered Emerald Buddha. The tour also provides the opportunity to visit various other temples and city gates, immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage of Chiang Mai.

| Landmark | Highlight |

|—|—|

| Three Kings Monument | Learn about Chiang Mai’s founders |

| Wat Chedi Luang | Once housed the Emerald Buddha |

| City Gates | Explore historic entrances to the old city |

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Lunch Experience

What better way to recharge after the morning’s exploration than with a 45-minute lunch at a local restaurant in Chiang Mai’s old city?

Participants will savor authentic northern Thai dishes, including the signature khao soi – a fragrant curried noodle soup – and sticky rice with a variety of tasty side dishes.

Savor authentic northern Thai dishes, including the signature khao soi – a fragrant curried noodle soup – and sticky rice with tasty side dishes.

This lunch experience offers a chance to immerse in the flavors and culture of the region, refueling and preparing for the next part of the walking tour.

A delicious and satisfying interlude, the lunch break provides a welcome respite amid the day’s discoveries.

Inclusions

The tour includes a professional guide to lead participants through the day’s activities, as well as round-trip transportation to Doi Suthep.

The tour also includes:

1. A Thai lunch at a local restaurant in the old city, where visitors can savor authentic northern Thai dishes such as khao soi (curried noodles) and sticky rice with side dishes.

2. Hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

3. Entrance fees to all the sites visited, including the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and historic landmarks in the old city.

4. Tips, making the experience hassle-free.

Preparation and Recommendations

The meeting point for the tour is the North Gate of Chiang Mai’s Old City.

Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves exploring historic temples, city gates, and landmarks.

It’s also recommended to bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water to stay hydrated during the walk.

Please note that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

With these preparations in mind, visitors can fully enjoy the cultural and historical richness of Chiang Mai’s old city and the iconic Doi Suthep temple.

Meeting Point and What to Bring

Where does the tour start? The meeting point for the Chiang Mai walking tour is the North Gate of Chiang Mai’s Old City.

To prepare for the adventure, guests should bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes

• A hat to shield from the sun

• A camera to capture the sights

• Water to stay hydrated

It’s important to wear comfortable footwear, as the tour involves extensive walking through historic temples and landmarks.

With these essentials, guests will be ready to embark on an engaging exploration of Chiang Mai’s cultural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children. It involves a significant amount of walking and climbing stairs, which could be challenging for smaller kids. Parents should consider their child’s abilities before booking this tour.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is designed for the safety and comfort of all participants, and the venues visited may not be suitable for pets. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the tour.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Water?

No, you don’t need to bring your own snacks and water. The tour includes round-trip transportation, a Thai lunch, and entrance fees, so all your meals and hydration are provided during the 6-hour experience.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available throughout the tour. Restrooms can be found at the temple, during the walking portion, and at the lunch restaurant, providing ample opportunities to use the facilities during the 6-hour experience.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Want to Explore More?

Yes, you can extend the tour duration if you want to explore more. The tour operator offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on your preferences. Just discuss the option with the guide during the tour.

Recap

This six-hour Chiang Mai tour offers a captivating blend of spiritual and cultural exploration. Visitors will ascend the iconic Doi Suthep, tour the historic Old City, and savor authentic northern Thai cuisine. With a small group and expert guidance, travelers can enjoy Chiang Mai’s rich heritage for an unforgettable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: