Chiang Mai: Doi Suthep & Wat Pha Lat Hike by Songthaew

Summary

Monk’s Trail hike, forest temples and city views in Chiang Mai

You’ll hike Chiang Mai’s Monk’s Trail through bamboo forest to peaceful Wat Pha Lat, ride a classic red songthaew truck with your local guide, and climb up to golden Doi Suthep Temple for sweeping city views. Expect sweat, laughter, quiet moments among statues—and maybe a new favorite spot to breathe.

What’s the experience like?

"You sure you want to walk this in the heat?" our guide, Nok, grinned as we hopped out of the red songthaew at the edge of Chiang Mai. The truck—open sides, no air-con, just benches and a breeze—had already felt like part of the adventure. I could smell jasmine and something earthy as we started up the Monk’s Trail, which is really just a dirt path winding through bamboo and tangled roots. Nok stopped now and then to point out little orange scraps tied to trees by monks—she said they mark the way for pilgrims. We were all sweaty within ten minutes but honestly, it felt good. Real.

The first time I glimpsed Wat Pha Lat through the leaves, it didn’t look like any temple I’d seen before. It’s half-hidden by mossy stones and vines, with old statues peeking out from under ferns. There was this hush—just cicadas buzzing and water trickling somewhere nearby. Nok told us about how monks used to rest here on their way up Doi Suthep. I tried sitting cross-legged on one of the cool stone ledges but my foot fell asleep almost instantly (monks must have better circulation). Someone lit incense; the smell drifted over while we watched sunlight flicker on carved elephants.

After that, we piled back into the songthaew for the last climb up to Doi Suthep Temple itself. The driver laughed when we debated taking the 300-step naga staircase or caving for the cable car (I lost that debate). At the top, gold flashed everywhere—even in cloudy weather—and bells chimed as people circled the chedi. Nok explained some of the wall paintings about Buddha’s life; I caught maybe half of it because my eyes kept wandering out toward Chiang Mai far below. It’s high up—over a thousand meters—and you can see rooftops stretching forever on clear days. I still think about that view sometimes when things feel noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike to Wat Pha Lat and visit Doi Suthep

• Ride songthaew to hike start
• Hike Monk's Trail to Wat Pha Lat
• Explore Wat Pha Lat temple
• Travel to Doi Suthep Temple
• Climb dragon staircase or take cable car
• Visit Doi Suthep temple grounds
• Enjoy panoramic city views
• Return to hotel

Top questions

How long does it take to hike from Chiang Mai to Wat Pha Lat?

The Monk's Trail hike takes about 30–45 minutes from the starting point near Chiang Mai to Wat Pha Lat.

Is hotel pickup included for this Doi Suthep tour?

Yes, hotel pickup is included for participants who are eligible based on their location in Chiang Mai.

What is a songthaew?

A songthaew is a converted pick-up truck with two benches in the back and open sides—it's how locals get around in Chiang Mai.

Are entrance fees included for Wat Pha Lat?

No, entrance fees for Wat Pha Lat must be paid in cash on the day (THB 100 per person).

Can I skip the hike if I’m not fit enough?

Yes, if you cannot do the hike up to Wat Pha Lat or Doi Suthep, you can ride up with the songthaew instead.

How many people are in each group?

The maximum number of participants per group is 12 persons.

What should I wear when visiting these temples?

You should cover your shoulders and knees as both temples are sacred places—dress respectfully.

Does this tour run during rainy season?

Yes, tours operate rain or shine; bring a raincoat or poncho during rainy season as showers usually don’t last long.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Chiang Mai (for eligible locations), an English-speaking local guide who leads you along the Monk’s Trail hike to Wat Pha Lat and then up to Doi Suthep Temple by classic red songthaew truck, plus bottled drinking water for along the way before returning you back at your hotel.