Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep delivers the most dramatic hilltop temple experience in Thailand, offering golden chedis and panoramic views of Chiang Mai from 1,073 meters elevation. The 306 naga-flanked steps lead you to a temple complex that dates back to 1383, housing a revered relic of Buddha. This site attracts over 2 million visitors annually, surpassing Wat Chedi Luang in altitude and visual grandeur by providing a sweeping vista that no Chiang Mai temple can match. Its golden canopy, constructed with traditional Lanna architecture, remains a standout among Thailand's northern temples. Compared to the average northern temple, its visitor count is 40% higher, and it consistently outperforms #2 on this list, Wat Phra Singh, by drawing 800,000 more tourists each year.