WAT PHRATHAT DOI SUTHEP

Wat Doi Suthep is a must-see in Chiang Mai. Situated at an altitude of 1,075 metres, it can be seen from anywhere in the city and is the city's guardian temple. It is one of the most revered Buddhist sites in Northern Thailand. Legend has it that a relic was brought to Chiang Mai in 1371. To consecrate it, the relic was placed on the back of an elephant, which made its way up the mountain. When the elephant stopped, the relic was buried there. The first chedi was built here, and since then the site has been constantly enlarged and embellished. The temple can be reached by funicular railway, or by climbing the 309 steps of the country's largest Naga staircase, which is a small price to pay for a fine view of the city and the Ping River. The architecture is influenced by Sukhothai and Burmese styles. At the entrance are statues of elephants and a Hindu Ganesh, prayed to for overcoming obstacles. The present temple dates back to the ^16th century, but has been restored and enlarged in subsequent centuries. The 24-metre-high chedi is magnificent, covered with superbly engraved gold plates. Surrounding it are four golden umbrellas glinting in the sunlight, golden Buddhas and green and orange glass Buddhas - the whole ensemble is literally dazzling! You'll need to walk clockwise around the chedi three times to pray to the sacred relic. A superb panorama of the city awaits you at the top. Legend has it that couples who climb them together remain united for life.