Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep sits at roughly 1,050 metres on Doi Suthep mountain, about 15 kilometres from central Chiang Mai, and is the city's most important temple. Founded in the 14th century, legend holds its site was chosen by a white elephant carrying a Buddha relic, which climbed the mountain and died where the golden chedi now stands. Beyond the temple, with its gilded stupa and 300-plus step naga staircase, terraces at the edge of the complex give sweeping views over the city and the Ping River valley, with viewpoints partway up the mountain road offering a similar panorama.