Doi Suthep, Mountain summit in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand
Doi Suthep is a mountain in Chiang Mai Province that rises to approximately 1,676 meters and is covered by different types of forest. The lower slopes contain deciduous trees, while higher elevations feature evergreen vegetation adapted to cooler temperatures.
The Buddhist temple Wat Phra That Doi Suthep was founded in 1383 to house and protect a sacred Buddha relic. The mountain became an important religious center that drew pilgrims across centuries.
The sacred site draws believers on pilgrimage, particularly during Buddhist holidays when worshippers light candles and offer flowers throughout the temple grounds. You can observe daily rituals and meditation practices that give the mountain its spiritual significance to the local community.
The mountain sits about 15 kilometers from Chiang Mai's city center and is reachable by red shared taxis that regularly depart from Huay Kaew Road. The climb to the temple involves ascending a long staircase, so comfortable shoes and a reasonable level of fitness are helpful.
The mountain is composed of Lower Carboniferous granite formed approximately 330 million years ago and uplifted during Himalayan mountain building. This geological history makes the summit a window into Earth's ancient past, long before the temple was built.
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