Wat Umong and Doi Suthep Temples: Evening Tour (Small Group Only)

Exploring the serene and historic Wat Umong and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temples at dusk offers a truly enchanting experience. This intimate evening tour, limited to small groups of just 15 travelers, promises to captivate visitors with the ancient underground tunnels of Wat Umong and the stunning gold-plated chedi of Doi Suthep. As the sun dips below the horizon, travelers will have the privilege of witnessing the moving sunset prayers, a mesmerizing cultural highlight. With convenient hotel pickup, included admission tickets, and a chance to take in breathtaking vistas, this tour provides a unique opportunity to take in Chiang Mai’s rich spiritual heritage.

Key Points

• This evening tour offers a visit to the 700-year-old Wat Umong temple and the renowned Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a key pilgrimage site atop Doi Suthep mountain.
• The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, temple admission tickets, and a maximum group size of 15 for a more personalized experience.
• Highlights of the tour include the serene forest setting of Wat Umong, the breathtaking panoramic views from Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, and witnessing the sunset and monks’ prayers.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the terrain and steps, but it is conveniently located near public transportation options, with a designated meeting point for those outside the pickup area.
• The tour has received mixed reviews, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides, peaceful experience, and enjoyment of the Thai milk tea provided, along with suggestions for better transparency on logistics.

Tour Overview

This evening tour offers visitors a chance to explore two of Chiang Mai’s most revered Buddhist temples – Wat Umong and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving travelers time on transportation. Tickets for temple entry are also included, ensuring a seamless experience.

With an average rating of 4.0 from 9 reviews, this tour provides an immersive glimpse into Chiang Mai’s rich religious heritage.

The price starts at $32.00 and varies based on group size, making it an accessible option for both solo travelers and small groups.

Wat Umong Highlights

Nestled within the verdant surroundings of Chiang Mai, the 700-year-old Wat Umong stands as a captivating blend of history and spirituality. This ancient temple complex features a network of underground tunnels, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the kingdom’s past. Visitors can explore these dimly lit passageways, adorned with Buddhist images and inscriptions, and enjoy the serene ambiance of the temple’s forest setting. The admission fee is a mere THB 20, making it an affordable and enriching experience for travelers. The tour’s duration at Wat Umong is approximately 1 hour, providing ample time to uncover its treasures.

Features	Details
Age	700 years old
Architecture	Underground tunnels
Setting	Surrounded by forest
Admission	THB 20
Duration	1 hour

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Highlights

Atop Doi Suthep mountain, the iconic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep stands as a revered pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a must-visit destination for travelers.

The temple features a stunning 309-step staircase leading to its serene grounds, where visitors can admire the stunning gold-plated chedi, intricate carvings, and breathtaking panoramic views of Chiang Mai.

During the evening tour, guests will have the opportunity to witness the captivating sunset over the city, as well as the moving sunset prayers of the resident monks.

With a duration of around 2 hours, this temple visit offers a deeply immersive cultural experience that’s not to be missed.

Tour Logistics

The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers per group, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Free hotel pickup is available for small group customers within a 2 km radius of central Chiang Mai. For those outside the pickup area, the meeting point is at the McDonald’s located at Thapae Gate in the Old City.

At the end of the tour, visitors will be transported back to the meeting point.

The tour offers the following logistical features:

1. Maximum group size of 15 travelers
2. Free hotel pickup for small groups within 2 km of central Chiang Mai
3. Meeting point at McDonald’s, Thapae Gate, Chiang Mai Old City

Pricing and Inclusions

The tour price starts at $32.00 and varies based on the group size.

This evening tour of Wat Umong and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you time on transportation. Admission tickets to both temples are also provided.

The tour can accommodate a maximum of 15 travelers, and free pickup is available for small groups within 2 km of central Chiang Mai. If your hotel is outside the pickup area, you’ll meet at the McDonald’s near Thapae Gate in the Old City.

At the end of the tour, you’ll be dropped off back at the meeting point.

Accessibility and Transportation

Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the uneven terrain and steep steps at the temples.

However, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

The logistics are as follows:

1. The tour provides free pickup for small group customers within a 2 km radius of central Chiang Mai.
2. If your hotel is outside the pickup area, the meeting point is at the McDonald’s restaurant near Thapae Gate in Chiang Mai’s Old City.
3. The tour ends back at the meeting point, making it easy to continue your travels after the experience.

Booking and Cancellation

Confirmation is received upon booking the Wat Umong and Doi Suthep Temples Tour. The tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This provides flexibility for travelers to adjust their plans as needed. The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers per group, ensuring an intimate experience. The tour company offers free pickup for small group customers within 2 km of central Chiang Mai, while those outside the pickup area can meet at the designated meeting point.

Booking Confirmation	Free Cancellation	Group Size
Received upon booking	Up to 24 hours before start	Maximum 15 travelers
		Free pickup in central Chiang Mai
		Meeting point at Thapae Gate

Traveler Reviews

Traveler reviews for the Wat Umong and Doi Suthep Temples Tour offer a mixed picture.

While many praise the knowledgeable guides and peaceful experience due to fewer travelers, some express dissatisfaction.

Highlights include:

1. The moving sunset prayers of the monks at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
2. The delicious Thai milk tea provided by the guide.
3. The overall serene atmosphere of the 700-year-old Wat Umong and the stunning views from Doi Suthep.

However, a few reviews note areas for improvement, suggesting the need for more transparency on tour logistics and potential challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Temples?

The temples require modest attire. Visitors should wear clothing that covers shoulders, chest, and legs. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops are generally discouraged. Following the dress code shows respect for the sacred sites.

Can We Take Photos Inside the Temples?

Photography is generally allowed inside the temples, but visitors should be respectful and avoid using flash. Some temples may have specific rules or restricted areas where photography is prohibited, so it’s best to check with the staff before taking photos.

Is There an Option for a Private Tour?

Yes, the tour provider offers a private tour option for those who prefer a more exclusive experience. The private tour allows for customized itinerary and personalized attention from the guide, though it may come at a higher price.

Can We Stop for Dinner on the Way Back?

The tour doesn’t include a dinner stop, but you could likely arrange it with the guide for an additional fee. They’d be able to recommend a good local restaurant to enjoy a meal on the way back from the temples.

How Much Time Do We Need to Explore the Temples?

The evening tour allows about 1 hour to explore Wat Umong and 2 hours to explore Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, providing ample time to take in the temples’ highlights and scenic sunset views.

Recap

This evening tour offers a serene and intimate experience at Wat Umong and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Visitors can explore the 700-year-old underground tunnels, admire the gold-plated chedi, and witness the sunset prayers, all while enjoying convenient transportation and admission. With a small group size, this tour provides a personalized and memorable way to discover Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage.