Private Chiang Mai City Tour with Wat Doi Suthep and Wat Suan Dok

08:30 AM - Get picked up from your hotel to visit Doi Suthep Temple, the renowned temple atop a hill in the north. Wat Pra That Doi Suthep houses a sacred Buddha relic and can be reached by climbing 306 steps, bordered by mythical Nagas on both sides. The temple grounds offer breathtaking panoramic views of the city, especially on a clear day.

10:30 AM - Wat Jed Yod, also known as Wat Ched Yod or Wat Photharam Maha Vihara, is an enchanting Lanna-style temple complex located on the outskirts of Chiang Mai. Dating back to the 15th century, this Royal temple boasts unique architecture influenced by Lanna, Rattanakosin, Lao, Chinese, and Indian styles. It was constructed during the reign of King Tilokkarat, the ruler of the Lanna Kingdom from 1441 to 1487. The temple grounds house a chedi where the ashes of the king are enshrined, adding to its historical significance.

11:30 AM - Wat Suan Dok, located just west of the old walled part of Chiang Mai, is an ancient temple renowned for its multitude of white chedis or pagodas. Its name, "Wat Suan Dok," translates to "flower garden temple," originating from its construction site, once a Royal flower garden used by the ruler of Chiang Mai. The most striking feature of Wat Suan Dok is its numerous chedis, including the tallest golden chedi standing at 48 meters high, housing the Buddha's relic. Additionally, many smaller white chedis contain the ashes of various generations of the Chiang Mai Royal Family, relocated here at the request of Princess Dara Rasmi in the early 20th century. Notably, in 1477, the 8th World Buddhist Council convened at this temple to discuss the Tripitaka scriptures, which contain the teachings of Buddhism.

01:00 PM - Wat Phra Singh, located within the walled old city of Chiang Mai, is among the most captivating and ancient temples in the area. Also known as The Monastery of the Lion Buddha, this active temple accommodates hundreds of monks and novices. Within its premises, Wat Phra Singh preserves numerous highly esteemed and ancient Buddha images, adding to its historical and religious significance.

02:00 PM - Wat Chedi Luang is characterized by its imposing and remarkable chedi (pagoda), which dominates the surrounding area. Initially commissioned by King Saen Muang Ma to enshrine the ashes of his father, construction of the chedi began in 1391 and spanned nearly a century. By the time it was completed in 1475, during the reign of King Tilokarat, the chedi stood at an impressive height of about 85 meters and a width of 44 meters, making it the largest structure in Chiang Mai at the time. However, disaster struck in 1545 when a massive earthquake severely damaged the chedi, causing approximately 60 meters to collapse from the top. In the 1990s, efforts were made to partially restore the chedi, preserving its historical significance for future generations.

03:00 PM - Wat Chiang Man holds the distinction of being the oldest temple in Chiang Mai, dating back to the city's founding in 1296. Established by King Mengrai, who sought to establish a new capital for the Lanna Kingdom, the temple was constructed as the first religious site in the new city. Situated at the location where King Mengrai oversaw the construction of Chiang Mai, Wat Chiang Man is steeped in historical significance. The temple is home to several ancient and revered Buddha images, further enhancing its importance in the region's cultural and religious heritage.