Wat Pha Lat Hike (Monk’s trail)

The Monk’s Trail up Doi Suthep leads to Wat Pha Lat, a small forest temple that once served as a rest stop for pilgrims. Starting near Chiang Mai University/Army Radio station, the trail climbs gently through shady jungle for about 45 minutes, following a stream and passing trees that monks used to mark with saffron cloth. The path is a former route for monks collecting alms and now has colourful banners; it winds over roots and stones, but dense canopy keeps most of the sun off. At the end, Wat Pha Lat seems to grow organically from the hillside, blending into the vegetation. A dragon‑lined stairway ends at a small waterfall, and statues of dragons, elephants and mythical creatures decorate courtyards and stupas. The temple offers views over Chiang Mai and radiates a tranquil, monastic atmosphere.

Because Wat Pha Lat is a Buddhist site, visitors should dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), remove shoes and behave respectfully. The 3 km out‑and‑back route gains about 160 m in elevation and is considered easy to moderate. November to February are the most comfortable months, and starting early (around 05:30–06:00) avoids midday heat and crowds. Wat Pha Lat (meaning “Monastery at the Sloping Rock”) dates to the 14th century and was built where a royal white elephant rested with a Buddha relic; it later became a monks’ residence when a road up to Doi Suthep was built in 1935. From the temple you can hike onwards to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep or return via the same trail or a songthaew (red truck) on the road.

What to bring & tips

• Footwear:
  Wear sturdy shoes; the dirt path has roots and rocks but isn’t technical.
• Water & electrolytes:
  Carry enough for the humid climb; there are no stalls on the trail.
• Bug protection:
  Use mosquito repellent to avoid bites and dengue risk.
• Modest clothing:
  Cover shoulders and knees; monks’ trail etiquette forbids revealing outfits.
• Cash & transport:
  Bring cash to pay for a songthaew or Grab taxi back down or for donations.
• Navigation:
  The main path is clear; offline maps can help if you plan to continue to Doi Suthep.
• Best time:
  Hike early (before sunrise) during November–February to avoid heat and haze.
• Optional items:
  Extra clothes, headlamp (for dawn or dusk hikes), and camera; there are no facilities at the temple.