Wat Pratat Doi Suthep

In Thailand, Wat Pratat Doi Suthep is a Buddhist Theravada temple and sacred location. Although various traditions attest to its beginnings, the true origins of this beautiful structure remain unknown.

Otherwise, it is said to date from 1383, when the first stupa was constructed there, and has subsequently been extended. A monk had a dream that led him to the mystical shoulder bone of Buddha, according to mythology. While one part of the shoulder bone was transported to a temple in northern Thailand, the other half was entrusted to a white elephant, who carried it through the jungle and up the Doi Suthep mountain in 1368.

Unfortunately, the elephant died, which was interpreted as a bad omen. On the spot, King Nu Naone quickly ordered the construction of a temple.

Wat Pratat Doi Suthep is a lavishly adorned temple that may be accessed by climbing 309 steps. If you don't want to climb, there is a tram that will transport you up to the pagodas. A big white elephant statue commemorates the origin story and stands at the location.

Location: 9 หมู่ที่ 9 Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand