Doi Suthep Temple Tour by Local Red Car – 3 Hours Experience

Chiang Mai , Thailand

Doi Suthep Temple Tour by Local Red Car – 3 Hours Experience

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Join us for an unforgettable journey to Doi Suthep and experience Chiang Mai like a local!

Flexible Departure Times – We offer five time slots throughout the day, so you can choose the session that best suits your schedule.

Step into the heart of Chiang Mai’s spiritual and cultural heritage on this Doi Suthep Temple Tour. Travel like a local in a traditional red Songthaew, the city’s signature shared taxi, as you ascend the lush mountainside to visit Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most sacred and awe-inspiring temples. This short yet immersive 3-hour tour is perfect for travelers looking for a meaningful experience without taking up the whole day.

IMPORTANT:
This tour is operated with a typical Thai “songthaew”, offering an authentic local travel experience. A songthaew is a converted pick-up truck with two benches in the back, open sides, and no air-conditioning. It’s the most common way for locals to get around in cities like Chiang Mai.

Available options

Doi Suthep Temple Tour by Local Red Car – 3 Hours Experience

Pickup included

What's included

English speaking guide

One bottle of drinking water

Transportation by 'songtaew' (pick-up truck with benches in the back)

Pick up and drop off from hotel (only within our service area)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover the cultural and spiritual soul of Chiang Mai on this quick yet enriching tour to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most sacred and iconic temples.

Perched high on Doi Suthep mountain, this golden temple offers breathtaking views over Chiang Mai and a serene atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.

Travel like a local in a traditional red ‘songtaew’ (converted pick-up with benches in the back) as you wind your way up the mountain, then climb the grand staircase flanked by mythical Naga serpents to reach the temple grounds.

With your knowledgeable local guide, uncover the rich history, symbolism, and legends surrounding this revered Buddhist site.

From its glittering golden chedi to the panoramic views of the city below, this short tour offers a deep dive into northern Thailand’s spiritual heritage, all in just a few hours.

What's not included

Entrance fee Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Meal

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

As our tours operate on a group basis, we kindly ask everyone to be on time. We can only wait for a maximum of 10 minutes after the scheduled meeting time. After the 10 minutes grace period, the guide will start with the tour. If you’re unable to make it on time, please inform us before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available day or time slot. Please note that a rescheduling fee will apply.

Remember that temples are sacred places and you must dress appropriately. Shoulders and knees need to be covered (for both men and women). No leggings, tight pants, or revealing tops, otherwise access might be denied.

This tour is operated with a typical Thai “songthaew”. A songthaew is a converted pick-up truck with two benches in the back, open sides, and no air-conditioning. It’s an authentic way locals travel around Chiang Mai.

Meeting point

If your hotel/accommodation is outside our pick up area, the meeting point is in front of the Burger King at the Thapae Gate in Chiang Mai .

About Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is a historic and cultural hub in Northern Thailand, known for its ancient temples, vibrant night markets, and lush mountain surroundings. It offers a blend of traditional Lanna culture and modern amenities, making it a favorite destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top Attractions

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

A stunning temple perched on a mountain with panoramic views of Chiang Mai. It's one of the most sacred temples in Thailand and a must-visit for its beauty and cultural significance.

Religious 2-3 hours 30 THB (1 USD) for foreigners

Old City

The historic heart of Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient walls and moats. It's filled with temples, markets, and traditional Lanna-style buildings.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, individual temples may charge a small fee

Doi Inthanon National Park

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Nature Full day 300 THB (9 USD) for foreigners, additional fees for specific attractions

Elephant Nature Park

A renowned elephant sanctuary offering ethical elephant encounters and rescue operations. Visitors can learn about elephant conservation and interact with these gentle giants.

Adventure Full day 2,500-5,000 THB (75-150 USD) depending on the program

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar

A vibrant night market offering a wide variety of souvenirs, clothing, and street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and pick up unique gifts.

Entertainment 2-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary for items and food

Must-Try Local Dishes

Khao Soi

A signature Northern Thai dish featuring egg noodles in a creamy curry broth, topped with crispy noodles and pickled mustard greens.

Dinner Contains meat (chicken or beef), gluten (noodles)

Sai Oua

A Northern Thai sausage made with minced pork, lemongrass, kaffir lime, and other aromatic spices.

Snack Contains pork, gluten (optional)

Som Tam

A spicy green papaya salad made with shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a tangy dressing.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or with fish sauce

Popular Activities

Hiking in Doi Inthanon National Park Elephant trekking (at ethical sanctuaries) Zip-lining in the jungle Visiting spas and wellness centers Exploring temples and cultural sites Enjoying coffee at local cafes Attending traditional Thai dance performances Visiting local markets and shopping for handicrafts

Best Time to Visit

November to February (cool season)

This is the most popular time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English (widely spoken in tourist areas)
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, Moderately spoken in other areas

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chiang Mai is generally safe for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Chiang Mai International Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from city center

By train

Chiang Mai Railway Station

By bus

Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station, Chiang Mai Old Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Songthaews are converted pickup trucks with benches in the back. They follow specific routes and are a cheap and convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old City Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) Santitham

Day trips

Pai

135 km (84 miles) • Full day to overnight

A charming mountain town known for its laid-back atmosphere, hot springs, and scenic landscapes. Pai offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for hiking, visiting waterfalls, and exploring local markets.

Mae Kampong Village

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

A picturesque hill tribe village known for its traditional way of life, lush surroundings, and warm hospitality. Mae Kampong offers a glimpse into the local culture and a chance to experience the simplicity of rural life.

Doi Inthanon National Park

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

Known as the 'Roof of Thailand,' this national park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and offers breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Songkran Festival • April 13-15 (Thai New Year) Loy Krathong Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November) Yi Peng Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (November, same as Loy Krathong)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Hire a local guide or join a guided tour to gain insights into the city's history and culture
Visit temples early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Explore the city's night markets and street food scene for an authentic and memorable experience
Try a traditional Thai massage or spa treatment for relaxation and rejuvenation