Thailand Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

14 images 1 contributors Shoot with care

Sue Wolfe

Shoot with care
Respectful attire is required. The dress code says knees and shoulders must be covered. You must also remove your shoes if entering the inner courtyard so bring your socks if you do not want to go barefoot.

About this spot
Doi Suthep is a Buddhist temple perched on a mountain outside of Chiang Mai. Legend says that a white elephant carried a bone from Gautama Buddha up the mountain, stopped, trumpeted three times, then laid down and passed away. Considered an omen, the temple was constructed on the site in 1383. Once you climb the Naga-lined steps, you will see a white elephant statue honoring the story behind the Wat’s location.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is one of the most sacred pilgrimage spots in Thailand and the gold plated chedi is the most holy area on the temple grounds. It stands 24 meters tall. The tiers of the chedi represent the level of heavens one must ascend to achieve Nirvana. The wall around the chedi is flanked by rows and rows of Buddha statues.

In the courtyard you will see golden pagodas, statues, bells and shrines. It is believed good luck will come to those that strike the series of bells. There is a replica of the Emerald Buddha and a statue of the Hindu god Ganesh. Elder monks offer blessings to those who wish to receive them in one of the prayer rooms that are open to the public.

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