A Morning with the Monks
Explore the spiritual side of Northern Thailand, visiting some of Chiang Mai's most sacred sites. Witness the daily alms giving for the monks, take in the views from Wat Doi Suthep and venture into the mysterious tunnels beneath Wat Umong.
Area
Northern Thailand
Type
Spiritual & Wellness
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Difficulty
Leisurely
Duration
Full Day
You will need to start early this morning to head out of Chiang Mai to Doi Suthep Mountain, where you will arrive in time to see the monks leave their monasteries and begin their walk along the streets for the daily alms collection. Should you wish, you may offer alms; otherwise, it is still a fascinating cultural experience to see the brightly robed monks collecting the offerings and blessing those who have made donations.
You will then continue up the mountain to Wat Doi Suthep. This famous temple was built in 1383 as a shrine to house a Buddha relic. Your driver will take you up the winding mountain road, and then the temple is reached by either a steep 306-step staircase or a tram. As well as admiring the temple, visitors can also enjoy the panoramic views over Chiang Mai and the lush surrounding countryside.
On the way back to Chiang Mai, you will stop at Wat Umong. This temple is tucked away in peaceful woodlands and is over 700 years old. The forest setting and the 13th-century tunnels that wind beneath the Chedi give the site an air of mystery, particularly as no one is completely sure as to why the tunnels were built or what they were for. Should you wish, while at Wat Umong, you can also receive a blessing from a monk.
Back in the city, you will visit a local restaurant for lunch. Why not try some Khao Soi, a well-known Chiang Mai dish that has crispy noodles and a coconut curry soup.
Please note that as you will be visiting religious sites, you will need to cover your shoulders and knees. You will also need to remove your shoes at certain parts of the temples.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationFour Seasons Resort Chiang Mai
A wonderful Four Seasons resort set in a tranquil, idyllic location. The perfect luxury base from which to explore the local culture, relax, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and experience excellent service and facilities.
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View AccommodationThe Legend Chiang Rai
The Legend Chiang Rai is located along the Mae Kok river just a few minutes from the town centre of Chiang Rai, affording it idyllic panoramic views of the lush surrounding hills and mountains. It is a boutique resort and spa with a tranquil atmosphere.
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View AccommodationAnantara Chiang Mai Resort
Located within the city, Anantara Chiang Mai (formerly the Chedi) stylishly combines a resort feel with a prime location. It is in the heart of beautiful scenery and traditional culture and a stone's throw from the bustle of the night markets.
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View Accommodation
137 Pillars House
137 Pillars House has the feel of being secluded in a secret and lush tropical garden in the heart of Chiang Mai. This hidden gem has an old world charm, transporting you to times gone by with the history of the main house.
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View AccommodationAnantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort
The Anantara is a stunning luxury hotel set high up in the lush hills of Thailand's border overlooking Myanmar and Laos, in the heart of the Golden Triangle. Explore three countries, enjoy a walk with elephants, or simply relax and take in the view.
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View AccommodationGypsy, Mekong River Cruise
Artfully crafted from teak and thatch, the exclusive two-suite Gypsy is a beautifully appointed vessel that charts a path along the Mekong River, stopping as and when you wish to curate a voyage of discovery between the Golden Triangle and Luang Prabang.
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View AccommodationTamarind Village
Tamarind Village is a beautiful boutique property surrounded by temples and shopping streets and is the perfect base from which to explore the wonders of Chiang Mai.
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View AccommodationRaya Heritage Chiang Mai
Located just north of Chiang Mai centre, Raya Heritage provides a tranquil retreat, welcoming you home after days exploring. With Lanna architecture and a keen focus on local craftsman, Raya Heritage fully immerses you in culture of North Thailand.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceHloyo Akha Hilltribe Experience
Delve into the traditions and culture of the Akha people. Travel into the hills to Hloyo village and spend a day partaking in the daily activities of the Akha. Learn to cook traditional food, and chat with farmers in the fields.
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View ExperienceDoi Inthanon Waterfalls Walk
Head out of the city into the lush green countryside for a day of adventure in Doi Inthanon National Park. During this experience you will have the opportunity to meet local hilltribes, try and spot wildlife, and of course take in the beautiful scenery.
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View ExperienceAnantara, Golden Triangle - Walking with Giants
Journey into the jungle on foot with the elephants and their mahouts on their daily walk, and watch as these gentle giants splash in the river or play in the mud, snack on leaves from nearby branches and socialise with the herd.
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View ExperienceWat Rong Khun
Wat Rong Khun, or rather the White Temple as it is better known as amongst foreigners, is located between Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai and is a rather spectacular temple, very different from the many others in the area.
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View ExperienceAnantara, Golden Triangle - Explore Three Countries in One Day
Uncover the mysteries of the Golden Triangle and explore the unique character and traditions of Thailand and Myanmar, with the option of adding on an experience in Laos. Where else can you say you visited three countries in a single day?
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View ExperienceAnantara, Golden Triangle - Spice Spoons
Anantara Goldern Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort offers a rich and interactive immersion into Thai cuisine with their cooking class, Spice Spoons. During this half day tour, learn the difference in spices and ingredients that make Thai food so delicious.
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Private Culinary Experience at Grandma's Cooking School
Join Grandma’s Home Cooking School for a hands-on culinary experience. Visit a local market, learn Thai food culture, and cook authentic dishes with a local chef. Savor your creations and return with new recipes and a full belly.
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View ExperiencePedal Lanna
The countryside around Chiang Mai is lush and green, dotted with local shrines, swathed in rice paddies and encased by dramatic mountains. What better way to make the most of the fresh air than exploring by bicycle?
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View ExperienceChiang Mai Classic Sites
Take a day to explore some of the highlights of Chiang Mai, including ancient temples and charming streets, accompanied by your own private guide.
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