TA006 : Doi Suthep Temple & Home Industries 1 Day

Overview :  There is a saying, “If you have not tasted the Kao Soi or visited Doi Suthep, you have not been to Chiang Mai.” The pagoda is symbolic landmark in Chiang Mai. It depicts the progression of Buddhism and of Lanna Thai from past to present. Every king of Chiang Mai has shown great devotion in nurturingand maintaining theessence of Buddhism. Strong belief and respect of this temple has remained in thearts of the Lanna pelple. Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is of great importance to Chiang Mai and Lanna Thailand.Wat Phrthat Doi Suthep is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. The temple is often referred to as Doi Suthep although this is actually the name of the mountain it is located on. The temple is located 15 km from the city of Chiang Mai and is a sacred site to many Thai people. From the temple impressive views of Chiang Mai can be seen and it remains a popular desdination of foreign visitors.
History:
The original founding of the temple remains a legend and there are a few varied versions. The temple is said to be founded in 1383 when the first chedi was built. Over time the temple has expanded, and been made to look more extravagant with many more holy shrines added. A road to the temple wat first built in 1935.
Once inside the temple grounds; visitors must take off their shoes. Visitors must be appropriately dressed. The original copper plated chedi is the most holy area of the temple grounds. Within the site are pagodas, statues, bells and shrines. Aspects of the Wat draw from both Buddhism and Hinduism. There is a model of the Emerald Buddha and statue of the Hindu God Ganesh. Views of Chiang Mai can be seen on the other side of the temple.