Chiang Mai Night Temples Tour & Hotel Pickup

Summary

Evening Doi Suthep Visit with Wat Umong Tunnels

Step into Chiang Mai’s evening calm as you explore Wat Umong’s ancient tunnels and climb Doi Suthep’s naga staircase by moonlight—with a local guide sharing stories along the way. Enjoy city views without daytime crowds and hotel pickup included for an easy start to a night you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We got picked up from our guesthouse just as the sky was starting to shift colors—one of those evenings in Chiang Mai where the air feels softer after a hot day. Our guide, Noi, greeted us with this gentle “sawasdee ka” and a smile that made it easy to relax. The first stop was Wat Umong, tucked away in the trees on the edge of town. I’d read about its tunnels but didn’t expect how cool and earthy they’d feel underfoot, or how the incense hung in the air even though hardly anyone else was around. There were old murals on the walls—faded but somehow more honest for it—and Noi told us stories about monks meditating here centuries ago. I tried to imagine that kind of quiet.

Back in the van, we wound up into the hills toward Doi Suthep. The city lights started flickering below us—honestly, I kept craning my neck to catch glimpses through the window. When we reached the base of the temple, there was this long staircase with two dragon-headed nagas curling all the way up (306 steps, if you’re counting—I lost track halfway). Some people took the funicular but I wanted to walk it; my legs complained but it felt right somehow. At the top, gold pagodas glowed under spotlights and moonlight mixed together. It wasn’t crowded like during the day—just a few locals lighting candles and murmuring prayers. Noi pointed out details in the carvings I never would’ve noticed on my own.

I’m not sure what hit me more—the view over Chiang Mai at night or just standing there listening to distant bells echo through the dark trees. There’s something about seeing these places after sunset that makes them feel less like tourist stops and more like living parts of someone else’s story. On the drive back down, I realized I still smelled incense on my shirt sleeve from Wat Umong. Funny what sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Night Tour of Wat Umong and Doi Suthep

• Visit Wat Umong tunnel temple
• Climb 306 steps to Doi Suthep temple

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Chiang Mai night temples tour?

Yes, hotel or guesthouse pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

How many steps are there to reach Doi Suthep temple?

The naga staircase has 306 steps leading up to Doi Suthep temple.

Do I need to dress modestly for this tour?

Yes, modest dress is required when visiting both temples.

Is an English-speaking guide provided?

Yes, a licensed English-speaking guide will accompany your group throughout the tour.

Are entrance fees included in this night tour?

All entrance fees for Wat Umong and Doi Suthep are included in your tour price.

Can people with limited mobility join this tour?

The funicular railway is available at Doi Suthep for those who prefer not to climb stairs; however, some walking is required overall.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or guesthouse in Chiang Mai, all entry fees for both temples, comfortable van transport with air conditioning and driver, travel accident insurance for peace of mind, plus guidance from a licensed English-speaking local who shares stories as you go.