Looking for the monktrail in Chiang Mai and want to know everything about the hike before you start doing this amazing hike through the forest and see temples surrounded by nature?
There are two parts of the Monktrail. From the start of the monk trail to the Wat Pha Lat temple & waterfall and from Wat Pha Lat to Doi Suthep.
Where to cross the road monktrail
When you’ve reached Wat Pha Lat temple. (see image) Take a break. After the break you keep walking stream upwards till you hit the road. Cross the road and walk left uphill. Just before the corner of the road you walk into the woods again, this 100/150 meter is probably the steepest of the walk. Below you see the trail under construction, when its finished I will add another picture.
Somewhere between 1.5 and 2.5 hours to get from the bottom of the trail all the way up to the stairs of Doi Suthep
Of course that is different for everyone. I think most people can do it. Most important thing, dont go to fast! I’ve seen quite unfit people climbing doing the monktrail nice and easy and they made it all the way up to Doi Suthep. Take some good breaks, enjoy the views & go on your own pace.
This image shows the location where the monk trail starts, you can park your motorbike here or get a drop of by a taxi. See also the exact location on the map and click on the link to get the exact start location of the monktrail.
Click here for the Google Maps start point of the Monktrail in Chiang Mai
There are a couple of ways to get down from Doi Suthep and the monktrail
Once I walked all the way up in the dark with a little headlight to see sunrise at Doi Suthep. That was a fun experience with a beautiful gift as you can see below! Tip. if the sun is behind the clouds with sunrise, wait till the sun shows itself. That can be magical!
Since this is a hiking adventure, it is vital to be prepared and well-equipped for the journey. Here are some things you might want to bring along:
Remember, the temples you encounter along the Monktrail, such as Wat Pha Lat and Doi Suthep, are sacred places for locals. It’s crucial to show respect when visiting. Here are some tips on how to behave respectfully:
The best time to hike the Monktrail is during Thailand’s cool season, between November and February. During this period, the temperatures are more bearable and the weather is generally drier, making the trail less slippery and the hike more enjoyable. Moreover, if you can start your hike early in the morning, you’ll avoid the hottest part of the day. You might even be lucky enough to catch a glorious sunrise over Chiang Mai!
While the Monktrail is relatively safe for hikers, it’s still essential to stay vigilant and follow safety guidelines. Stick to the marked path and avoid straying into the wilderness. Be cautious of potential wildlife and keep a safe distance. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and estimated return time.
In conclusion, the Monktrail in Chiang Mai offers an excellent mix of cultural experiences and natural beauty. The hike is rewarding, leading you to beautiful temples and providing magnificent views of the city. With the right preparation, respectful attitude, and adventurous spirit, your hike on the Monktrail will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience.
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Hola,
Muchas gracias por el post, me ha gustado mucho. Quisiera saber si el camino en construcción para subir a Doi Suthep ya está acabado. Puedes darme esta información, por favor?
Muchas gracias
I'm not sure Eugenio, was there couple of weeks ago and didn't see any construction going on anymore :)