6 Chiang Mai Monk Trail Hikes Tours to Build a Day Around

1.Doi Suthep Temple & Wat Pha Lat Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 740 reviews · 4 hours · from $25Our pick

Ride a traditional red songthaew from Chiang Mai, walk the forest Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat, then visit golden Doi Suthep. English-speaking guides such as Jane, Margaret, Saman, and Nancy explain Buddhist symbols, arrange photo stops, and adjust the route for rain. Sunrise departures begin at 5:00 a.m.

“This tour was lovely. The drive up to Doi Suthep was brilliant in our Red Van, lots of switchbacks, and views of Chiang Mai, en route. Our guide, Bright, helped to understand the symbolism in the carvings etc. at the Temples, and talked to us about some aspects of Buddhism as well, which was interesting to know. We were part of a group of 6, just right. We had a 2-3 km through the woodlands, past old temples and water falls. Great half day with Bright.”

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2.Doi Suthep Temple & Wat Pha Lat Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 657 reviews · from $26Top rated

Walk the Monk’s Trail to forested Wat Pha Lat, then visit gold-covered Doi Suthep with an English-speaking guide such as Saman, Jane, or Amy. Expect a 30 to 40-minute hike, more than 300 dragon stairs, open-air songthaew transport, and extra temple fees.

“Khun Saman who led our small group did an excellent job explaining things related to the temple, different Buddhas displayed. He also has a wealth of knowledge about the forest as we were hiking our way down. He is thorough, devoted, responsible. The walking stick he passed to us to use was incredibly useful. Very thoughtful of him.”

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3.Elephant Sanctuary, Monk Trail & Doi Suthep Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 563 reviews · 1 day · from $57

Combine Chiang Mai’s forest temples with a hands-on visit to Pon Elephant Thailand. Walk the Monk Trail, see golden Doi Suthep, feed and bathe elephants without riding them, and enjoy a local Thai lunch. Guides such as Sumit, Paul, Ronnie, and Suriya are praised for their stories and care.

“We had a great time from the moment we were picked up. Our guide Paul was with us moment we stepped out of the hotel and guided us throughout the trip. Lunch was provided and the sanctuary was lovely and ethical. The temples were scenic and unique and Paul provided us with loads of insight. We were left alone to explore as well so it was a good balance. The hike at the end was scenic and we were able to get it done even though we didn’t pack the adequate footwear. Would recommend you bring walking shoes. Amazing experience that made our chiang mai visit memorable. Thank you Paul…”

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4.Chiang Mai Doi Suthep Temple and Wat Pha Lat Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 299 reviews · from $26

Ride a traditional open-air songthaew from central Chiang Mai, hike 30 to 45 minutes through forest to Wat Pha Lat, then visit golden Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. An English-speaking guide explains Buddhist customs, temple art, and local history. Expect stairs, heat, and extra cash fees.

“Some strenuous walking involved. A magnificent experience with a knowledgeable friendly guide steeped in local Buddhist history and Buddhist precepts. He was a former monk. Recommend wearing a face mask in the red truck to avoid gas fumes. Five in our group.”

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5.Hike on Monk’s Trail and Doi Suthep Private Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 22 reviews · 4 hours · from $57

Follow Chiang Mai’s forested Monk’s Trail to peaceful Wat Pha Lat, then ride up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Your private English or Chinese speaking guide handles transport, tickets, and temple context. Expect about 30 to 40 minutes of hiking, covered shoulders and knees, and striking city views.

“Pang our toyr guide was absolutely outstanding we opted for the 6am sunrise tour . we learned so much and would highly recommend this tour”

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6.Hmong Village, Doi Suthep and Wat Pha Lat Trek

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 3 reviews · 7 hours · from $57

Spend seven hours above Chiang Mai hiking the forest Monk’s Trail to Wat Pha Lat, visiting golden Doi Suthep, and meeting the culture of a Hmong village. English or Thai guides lead small groups of up to nine, with transport, temple fees, and hotel pickup included.

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