From Golden Temples to Ancient Stone
No visit to Chiang Mai would be complete without a trip to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most sacred and recognizable temples. We paired this iconic landmark with an afternoon hike through the fascinating rock formations of Pha Chor, making for a day that combined history, spirituality, and some truly unique scenery.
Climbing Doi Suthep
Our morning began with the winding drive up Doi Suthep Mountain. As the road climbed higher above Chiang Mai, the city slowly disappeared beneath us, replaced by lush forest and cooler mountain air.
By the time we reached the temple, the panoramic views alone made the trip worthwhile.
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep has welcomed pilgrims for centuries and remains one of northern Thailand’s most important Buddhist temples.
According to legend, the temple’s location was chosen by a sacred white elephant carrying a holy relic of the Buddha. After climbing the famous staircase lined with beautifully crafted Naga serpents, we were rewarded with one of Thailand’s most impressive temple complexes.
The Golden Chedi of Doi Suthep
The golden chedi sparkled in the sunlight, surrounded by intricate shrines, colorful murals, and the quiet sounds of monks chanting and temple bells ringing in the breeze.
Visitors from around the world wandered respectfully through the grounds, while locals stopped to pray and make offerings. Despite its popularity, the temple still felt peaceful and deeply spiritual.
Before leaving, we spent a little more time taking in the sweeping views across Chiang Mai. On a clear day, the city stretches for miles, framed by the surrounding mountains that make northern Thailand so distinctive.
From Sacred Mountain to Ancient Stone
From Doi Suthep, we headed south toward one of the region’s lesser-known natural attractions- Pha Chor, located within Mae Wang National Park.
Unlike the lush forests surrounding Doi Suthep, Pha Chor offers an entirely different landscape.
Long ago, this area was part of an ancient river system. Over time, the Ping River changed course, leaving behind a dry riverbed. Wind and rain gradually carved the exposed sediment into towering cliffs, narrow passageways, and dramatic rock pinnacles that now define the landscape.
Hiking Through Pha Chor
The hiking trail winds through these incredible formations, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into another world.
Massive sandstone walls rise on both sides of the path, while towering pinnacles stand like natural sculptures created over countless centuries.
As we followed the trail, each turn revealed another impressive viewpoint. Wooden walkways and staircases made the hike manageable, while interpretive signs explained how this remarkable geological formation came to be.
Looking closely at the layered cliffs, it was easy to imagine the powerful river that once flowed through this valley long before it became dry land.
Walking Along an Ancient Riverbed
One of the highlights was walking along the ancient riverbed itself.
It’s amazing to think that the towering formations surrounding us were slowly shaped by the forces of nature over millions of years. Today, they provide one of the most unique hiking experiences in northern Thailand.
Although Pha Chor doesn’t receive nearly as many visitors as Doi Suthep, that’s part of its appeal. The peaceful trails allowed us to enjoy the scenery without crowds, making it feel like one of northern Thailand’s hidden gems.
Two Completely Different Worlds
By the end of the day, we had experienced two completely different sides of Chiang Mai.
One was a sacred mountaintop temple that has inspired pilgrims for generations. The other was an ancient landscape sculpted by nature over millions of years.
Together, they created one of the most memorable days of our northern Thailand road trip.
Backpack Benji’s Best Bets
- Visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep early in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Dress respectfully when visiting the temple by covering your shoulders and knees.
- Take your time climbing the famous Naga staircase, but if needed, there is also a tram available. We took the tram up and walked the stairs down.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes for Pha Chor, as the trails include stairs, dirt paths, and uneven terrain.
- Bring plenty of water, especially during the hotter months, as much of the hike is exposed to the sun.
- Allow at least 90 minutes to explore Pha Chor at a relaxed pace and enjoy the viewpoints.
- Combining Doi Suthep and Pha Chor makes for an excellent full-day adventure that showcases both the cultural and natural beauty surrounding Chiang Mai.
Some destinations impress with history, while others amaze with nature. On this day, we didn’t have to choose. From the glittering golden chedi of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep to the towering sandstone pinnacles of Pha Chor, we experienced two unforgettable sides of northern Thailand in a single day.