Doi Suthep & Pha Lat Evening Tour: Monk Ceremonies at Sunset
Two temples, two atmospheres: the hidden one first, then the sacred one lit up at night
An evening tour of Chiang Mai's two most revered temples, starting at Wat Pha Lat (the "Hidden Temple") in the mountains and ending at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep on its peak, where you climb the 306-step Naga staircase and watch evening monk ceremonies under the city lights. A live English-speaking guide and hotel pickup are included. The tour runs about four hours from late afternoon into evening.
Step-by-step itinerary
Evening tour to two temples
- Pick up from hotel
- Drive to Wat Pha Lat
- Explore Wat Pha Lat temple and waterfall
- Travel to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
- Climb 306-step staircase or take funicular
- Visit golden pagoda and admire views
- Return to hotel
What’s included
- A live English-speaking guide leads you through both temples.
- hotel pickup and an air-conditioned van transport you between sites.
- accident insurance is included (passport copy or photo required on the travel date).
- all fees and taxes are covered.
Times
- Every day 16:00
Before you book
Operated by Trips Chiang Mai
Prices and times updated yesterday
Traveler reviews
The experience
Wat Pha Lat comes first. The van picks you up from your hotel around 4:30 p.m. and drives into the hills outside Chiang Mai, climbing toward a temple most visitors never find. This is the "Hidden Temple": a serene, secluded compound with a waterfall, meditation hall and views across the surrounding mountains. The architecture mixes traditional Thai design with modern elements, and the quietness is the whole point. You spend time here before the light fades, taking in the temple grounds and the landscape around them.
By 6:45 p.m. you arrive at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, the sacred one. The temple sits on a mountain peak, and to reach it you climb the famous 306-step staircase decorated with the mythological Naga serpent, or you can take the funicular railway instead if you prefer not to climb. At the top is the Lanna-style golden pagoda, its carved gold plates catching the last light. This is when the monks perform their evening ceremonies, and you watch from the temple grounds as the city lights begin to glow below. The night views of Chiang Mai spread out in all directions.
Note: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is currently undergoing renovations following storm damage, which may affect parts of your visit. The tour includes your guide, accident insurance, all fees and taxes, and an air-conditioned vehicle. A WhatsApp-enabled phone number helps the operator reach you on the day of the tour.
Is this one for you?The guide speaks English throughout, so the commentary and explanations work for anyone fluent in English. If you prefer to climb the 306 steps rather than take the funicular, the staircase is manageable for all fitness levels, though the evening timing means you arrive at Doi Suthep as the ceremonies begin and the city lights are coming on: a different experience than a daytime visit.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 6 years); Infant (under 4): free.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What is Wat Pha Lat and why is it called the Hidden Temple?
Wat Pha Lat is a serene, secluded temple located in the mountains outside Chiang Mai, also known as the "Monk's Trail Temple." It features a waterfall, meditation hall, and stunning views of the surrounding hills, and blends traditional Thai architecture with modern elements. It is called the Hidden Temple because most visitors to Chiang Mai never find it.
Do I have to climb the 306 steps at Doi Suthep, or is there another way up?
You can climb the 306-step Naga staircase to reach Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, or you can take the funicular railway instead for a more comfortable ride to the top.
What time does the tour start and when will I be back at my hotel?
The van picks you up from your hotel around 4:30 p.m. The tour runs about four hours, so you return in the evening after visiting both temples and watching the monk ceremonies at Doi Suthep as the city lights come on.
Is the tour guide English-speaking, and what does the guide do?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide is included with the tour. The guide leads you through both temples, provides commentary on the sites, and helps you navigate the experience at each location.
What happens if I arrive in Chiang Mai the same day as the tour?
The operator does not recommend this tour for same-day arrivals or tight schedules, as timing may vary. Plan to arrive in Chiang Mai with time to spare before the 4:30 p.m. pickup.
What is included in the tour price, and what costs extra?
The tour includes the guide, hotel pickup, an air-conditioned vehicle, accident insurance, and all fees and taxes. The funicular railway at Doi Suthep costs 20 THB per person if you choose not to climb the stairs.
Doi Suthep & Pha Lat Evening Tour: Monk Ceremonies at Sunset
4h · EN · at your hotel
from US$ 25 per person
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