MYSTIC MEET MODERN

Welcome and explore three of Chiang Mai's most remarkable temples which offers unique cultural and spiritual experiences.

EXCURSION 2

ABOUT WAT PHRA THAT DOI SUTHEP

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of northern Thailand's sacred temples, is often called 'Doi Suthep' for short, symbolizing the mountain. Chiang Mai’s iconic mountaintop temple with a phenomenal bird’s eye view, situated on a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai, is one of northern Thailand's most sacred temples.

Founded in 1383 by King Keu Naone of the Lanna Kingdom, the temple was built to enshrine a holy Buddha relic and is deeply tied to the history and spiritual identity. The temple is a revered pilgrimage site famous for its seven-headed Naga (mythical serpents) magnificent staircase design and its stunning, gold-plated angular, tiered structure central chedi.

Visitors can come to enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of the city, admire the numerous Buddha statues, and engage in meditation, spiritual reflection and buy offerings to pray.

ACTIVITIES OFFERED

Sitting and walking meditation.
Dhamma talks (English - speaking monk available)
Outside instructors allowed to lead sessions

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VIDEO

ABOUT WAT PHA LAT

Wat Pha Lat, nestled in the forest on the slopes of Doi Suthep mountain, is a secret jungle temple located a few kilometers from the bustling Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple. Its name translates to ‘monastery at the sloping rock’. Built during the reign of King Kuena (1355-1385), the monastery is used as a monk’s residence and a place of meditation for monks. The temple's architecture is a distinct blend of Thai and Burmese styles, the result of an early 20th century restoration project funded by a wealthy Burmese teak trader.

The structures are elegantly blended with the natural setting, with Buddha statues and shrines carved into and around rocks, and a little stream flowing through the grounds. Visitors can find calm and tranquility in an ideal place to appreciate the unique harmony of the temple's structures with the surrounding nature and to engage in quiet and intimate reflection, “Dharma and Nature” sessions and tour guides organised by Monks in the temple.

ACTIVITIES OFFERED

Nature walks and Dhamma and Nature sessions
Guided group discussions by monks
Cultural or art integration encouraged

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VIDEO

ABOUT WAT LOK MOLI

A historic city temple offering traditional Buddhist practices and cultural experiences.

Wat Lok Moli is a historic Buddhist temple that is located just outside the old city walls of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The temple was built in the 14th Century and it is quite well known for its Lanna styled architecture. Where you can see ancient brick chedi, and wooden viharn which is the assembly hall.

Unlike other temples, this temple faces north which is slightly unusual with the Thai temple design. The temple has a more peaceful atmosphere due to lesser people visiting it. Wat Lok Moli also has beautiful gardens and guardian statues which makes this place a serene one.

ACTIVITIES OFFERED

Chanting, meditation, Dhamma talks
Drawing or art sessions and cultural exchange
Full - day programs possible (morning and afternoon)

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VIDEO

DO'S AND DON'T

DO'S

Do stand still when the national anthem is being played.
Culturally, Buddha images and statues are considered sacred and respected.
Always be polite. Use polite particles such as "Ka" and "Krub"
Do the "Wai" when greeting and bow if apprioprate.
Respect the monks.
Dress appropriately.

DON'T

Do not wear shorts, tank tops and short skirts and any revealing clothes in the temples.
Do not touch people's head
Do not show the sole of your feet or point using your feet.
Do not make fun of Buddha statue or disrespect religious items
Do not mock, insult the monarchy/royalty.
Women should not sit next to monks
Do not touch monks