Visit Wat Phra That Doi Kham (Chiang Mai)

This little temple, located about ten kilometers from Chiang Mai, also perched on a hill, is much less known than the one installed on the top of Doi Suthep mount but it is very charming. Built at the end of the 7th century, it is one of the oldest temples in Chiang Mai province. The temple houses a big sitting Buddha more than 17 meters high, a chedi and a large esplanade offering a nice view over the surroundings where tyou can see in particular the Royal park Rajapruek down in the valley (park that you can visit after since it is nearby).

Like all the temples that have ''Phra That'' in their name, Wat Phra That Doi Kham houses Buddha relics. And ''doi kham'' means the golden mountain.

The entrance to the temple is free. It is open from 6 am to 5 pm.

Once there, a car park is located at the bottom of the mountain. Then a very winding road goes to the temple. Red cars can take you there (20 THB per person). Otherwise at the bottom of the car park is the beginning of the long staircase leading to Wat Phra That Doi Kham.

Wat Phra That Doi Kham is a temple and when you visit a temple in Thailand there are some rules to know and follow:

• Dress properly (knees and shoulders should be covered)
• Take off your shoes when entering the buildings
• Be quiet
• Don't hug or kiss
• Don't point your feet to Buddha's image
• Don't smoke