Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep

Considered as the most important temples located in Chiang Mai, the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is also well revered among all the Thais. It is the destination of devotees during Buddhist holidays of Visak and Makha Buja.

The importance of the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is due to a legend. According to the legend, an image of Buddha replicated itself just before it was to be placed at the chedi of Wat Suandok. The second image was then placed on the back of a white elephant and allowed to roam free. The elephant then went up Suthep Mountain, sounded its trumpet three times and turned around three times as well and then died. It was a sign of where the Buddha image wanted to be placed hence the construction of the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep by King Ku Na in the 14th century. Today, the temple attracts Buddhist tourists from all over the world.