Doi Suthep Monk's Trail
Also known as: Wat Pha Lat
The Monk’s Trail - a forest walk from Chiang Mai to Wat Pha Lat and the golden Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
The route
The line through Chiang Mai (Doi Suthep-Pui NP), Thailand - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Season & conditions
Year-round (cool season best)
Tropical heat and humidity, heavy rain in the wet season, leeches and slippery terrain
Open year-round; hot and humid; slippery when wet. Confirm.
On the trail
A forest pilgrim path from the city to a jungle temple and the golden Doi Suthep
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Accessible to most walkers and families; not fully wheelchair accessible - confirm
Confirm typical crowd levels
Walk up and songthaew down; turn around at Wat Pha Lat
Getting there & staying
Chiang Mai (near the university)
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Day route - none needed
Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies
Services in Chiang Mai; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
No permit; a small temple fee; near-city
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Heat, slippery roots, traffic near the temple
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.