https://ae.trip.com/moments/detail/chiang-mai-209-132681508?locale=en-AE
Owen Fletcher20Singapore

Pilgrimage to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai

【Wat Phra That Doi Suthep】, also known as Wat Phra Singh or the Relic Temple, was built in 1383 and has a history of over 600 years. Nestled in the mountains, it is a famous Buddhist summer retreat in Thailand. The temple gets its name "Temple of the Two Dragons" from the two colorful multi-headed Naga sculptures guarding its sides. The 309-step staircase features two long emerald-green Nagas coiled along the railings. Thai dragons differ significantly from Chinese ones, often depicted with multiple heads. In Thai temples and religious sites, you'll encounter various mythical creatures believed to inhabit the Himavanta Forest of Mount Meru, considered the center of Buddhist and Hindu cosmology. These creatures appear in the Thai epic Ramakien, derived from the Indian Ramayana, including serpent gods, lion gods, crocodile gods, and swan gods. The Naga, a half-snake, half-deity figure (originally a multi-headed, cobra-like water spirit in Indian mythology), serves as the temple's guardian. The steps flanked by these divine serpents lead through lush jungle to this serene sanctuary. The temple resonates with Buddhist chants. Every corner—the corridors, main hall, and around the golden stupa—is adorned with seated and reclining Buddha statues, some gilded in gold, others carved from translucent jade. Beyond curious tourists, devout worshippers circle the stupa in prayer, refill lotus oil lamps, and offer incense and flowers after silent prostration. My mother and I completed our circumambulation in our own Chinese way.
View Original Text
*Created by local travelers and translated by AI.
Posted: Jun 4, 2025
Submit
0
Mentioned in This Moment
Attraction

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

4.7/53648 reviews | Historic buildings
Chiang Mai
No.13 of Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai
View
Show More
Related Moments
The Grand Palace

Thailand's Scenery, Love That Never Fades~

Pluie?toiles456
Doi Suthep

Thailand Visa-Free Travel: Enjoy a Trip for Just $300+ Per Person

Favorite Thailand Trip
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Temples You Must Visit in Chiang Mai, Thailand

AYATABI
Wat Suan Dok

10 most popular temple of chiang mai

Heemal
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Temples, Nature & Cafés: Why Everyone Falls for Chiang Mai 🏯🌿☕

SERGIO PEREZ REJON GARCIA
Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep – A Sacred Hilltop Viewpoint Above Chiang Mai

SERGIO PEREZ REJON GARCIA
Wat Phra Singh

Spending quiet time is such a luxury. I found peace of mind in Chiang Mai. 🍃🕊️🌄

Aom_92
Wat Phra Singh

Experience more than sightseeing: A journey to Chiang Mai that engages all your senses.

Aom_92
Doi Suthep

A tranquil journey to listen to your inner voice in the serene mountain town of Chiang Mai.

Aom_92
Wat Phra Singh

Wrapped in the tranquility of Chiang Mai

Aom_92
Doi Suthep

A Journey to Chiang Mai That Soothes the Mind and Body

Aom_92
Wat Umong Suan Putthatham

Chiang Mai Travel Plan: 2 Days 1 Night 🚗✨

หาเวลาเที่ยวบ้าง