Chiang Mai Hidden Hiking Trails: A Solo Adventure to Wat Pha Lat and Doi Suthep

When I travel, I always look for short hikes to avoid tourist crowds and enjoy a brief adventure. On my first visit to Chiang Mai, I joined meditation retreats, but this time, I concentrated on discovering hidden gems. I included the well-known Monk's Trail to Doi Suthep in my itinerary.

I woke up earlier than usual, at 6:00, to avoid the heat since I visited Thailand in the hot month of August. I took a Bolt (motor taxi) and pinned Chiang Mai University. When I told the driver that I'm going to Wat Pha Lat, he took me further inside the university. I paid 50 baht for the whole 4.7km trip , starting from my hostel in Chiang Mai.

Entrance to the Monk’s Trail at Chiang Mai University

The initial section of the hike is simple, with trails distinctly marked by Thai Buddhist flags. I came across several other tourists and some trail runners. Since it was a Friday, I believe weekdays are ideal for avoiding crowds and fully experiencing the tranquility of the forest.

Trail markers and Buddhist flags along Monk's Trail

The hike was refreshing, with the sound of flowing rivers accompanying me throughout. The forest trees shaded the entire path, making the walk much more enjoyable.

After approximately 45 minutes of walking, I arrived at the entrance of the Buddhist forest temple, Wat Phra Lat. This temple acts as a resting point for pilgrims journeying to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. It was established in the 14th century at the location where the white elephant carrying the Buddha relic paused and rested.

Sign at the entrance and staircase to Wat Pha Lat

The temple is vast and exudes a rustic, ancient atmosphere. I noticed a few tourists wandering around, but it was certainly less crowded than Doi Suthep. It took me 30 minutes to explore before I continued my journey to Doi Suthep. From Wat Pha Lat, you can also see the entire city view of Chiang Mai.

The calming and refreshing river stream of Wat Pha Lat

Discovering the Hidden Treasures of Wat Pha Lat Temple

View of Chiang Mai from Wat Pha Lat

To continue to Doi Suthep, you should head to the main road, where red trucks are available to transport passengers to the destination. Google Maps functions well in this area, and I used it to locate the beginning of the trail, which is a small opening on the right side of the road. Since there are no trail markers, I relied on my GPS. Fortunately, there is mobile signal throughout the entire hike.

Left: The main road leading to Doi Suthep; Right: The beginning of the narrow trail to Doi Suthep

The hike begins with a steep incline, though it's still quite doable. The path is direct, so getting lost is unlikely. I could tell I was on the correct route by the descending trail runners and the shoe prints. This section of the trail is muddier, lined with tall grasses, and narrower than the one leading to Wat Phra Lat. Be sure to stop at the iconic tree, which is an excellent spot for a rest and a photo.

Majestic old tree towering above the lush trail to Doi Suthep

After navigating the steep trails for 1 hour and 15 minutes, I climbed a narrower, steeper path that led me back to the main road. At first, I felt disoriented and unsure of my location, but a few meters ahead, I spotted food vendor stalls, red trucks, and groups of tourists. I realized that I had just reached the base of Doi Suthep temple.

The last steep stretch of the hike leading to the main road ton the way to Doi Suthep

The climb to Doi Suthep includes 300 steps adorned with a green dragon rail. At the summit, you'll find golden structures where tourists often gather with tours or to take photos. Local devotees can also be seen praying and making offerings, like lotus blossoms.

3000-step staircase on the way to Wat Phra Tat Doi Suthep

The golden stupa of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

To access the main temple, you need to pay 30 baht. I spent about an hour exploring and walking around Doi Suthep. On the return journey, hiking down is not necessary and is advised against because of the steep and slippery paths. Numerous red trucks are available to take you back to various stops in the city for a fee of 50-100 baht.

The entire journey, including the return to my hotel, took approximately 6 hours. Be sure to add this to your itinerary when visiting Chiang Mai. Spending half a day on this felt substantial and worthwhile. It's also an excellent way to burn off the calories from all the street and night market food in Chiang Mai.

NOTES AND TIPS

• Best time to hike: Early mornings (6–8 AM) are ideal to avoid crowds and the heat, especially in August. Weekdays are quieter; weekends can be busy.

• Time management: Half-day is usually enough to do both Wat Pha Lat and Doi Suthep.

• Entry fees & transport: Wat Pha Lat has no entrance fee. If you choose not to continue your hike to Doi Suthep, you can take the red trucks or songthaews for 50–100 baht.

• Navigation: Google Maps functions effectively, and there is mobile signal available across the trails. I purchased my e-sim from mobimatter.

• Safety tips: Stick to marked trails and watch out for slippery steps after rain.

• Local etiquette: Dress modestly at temples; remove shoes before entering.

• Food & snacks: Bring at least 1L of drinking water and some snacks for the trail. Alternatively, you can purchase them from vendors near the temple entrance.