All reviews
Review Author: Colette Morin
Review Date: 11 Apr 2025
Review Body: Had a great time on a solo hike up Doi Pui with Ardo. Wide-ranging conversation on the hill tribes and tourism. Really enjoyed seeing the plants and trees change with the elevation.
Decided to do a repeat hike on January 5th, this time as a member of a small group with 3 others. Our guide Two Two was very informative about the local flora and fauna. A great day was had by all.
After talking with Ardo and seeing the great reviews and photos, I hope to do the longer overnight and multi-day trips with them next year.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: kathleen neumaier
Review Date: 11 Apr 2025
Review Body: This was amazing for being so close to the city. I wish I had found out about this guide sooner ! I would LOVE to do his two or three night hikes to villages out in the mountains! On this hike we hiked some steep terrain, saw the Monk’s trail & old setting, went to the large temple, had delicious food, dunked at a waterfall …. I’m so happy I stumbled upon this guide! Thank you. He is from the hillside tribes and knowledgeable! Sat Nam.
Review rating: 5
Review Author: James Seungyeop Lee
Review Date: 11 Apr 2025
Review Body: I had a great start to my trip going on a hike to Mt Doi Suthep thanks to Fame! The hiking was all the more fun as we ran into hidden spots, beautiful waterfalls in the rainforest that only few people know of. Wish I stayed longer to be able to join trips of longer days but grateful anyways for the amazing time we spent on the half day adventure!
Review rating: 5
Itinerary
Itinerary Day 1
Itinerary Summary: Trek Monk's Trail, visit Wat Pha Lat temples and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Enjoy lu, lunch, jungle hike, waterfalls.
Itinerary Description: 8:30 am Hotel pickup and departure to Doi Suthep Pui National Park
9:00 am Begin trek along the Monk's Trail through the forest and historical resting points
9:40 am Arrive at Wat Pha Lat and explore the temple nestled in nature and resume hike toward Wat Phra That Doi Suthep
12:00 pm Explore Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, admire architecture, golden pagoda and panoramic views of Chiang Mai and enjoy lunch.
1:30 pm Continue trek through jungle paths, rocky terrain, bamboo alleys and discover hidden waterfalls
3:00 - 3:30 pm Finish program and go back to hotel
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Chiang Mai’s Sacred Monk’s Trail to Doi Suthep
Hike on Chiang Mai’s Sacred Monk’s Trail to Doi Suthep
5.0
|3 Reviews
Group size
Up to 8 guests
DURATION
5 hours
Booking type
Join-in trip
MEET UP
Free pick-up
Group size
Up to 8 guests
- Experience highlights
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- More Info
- Host
- Reviews
Get to know local hill tribe culture in Chiang Mai's sacred hike to Doi Suthep
This is one of the most meaningful hikes you can do in Chiang Mai — a spiritual trek through peaceful forests along the historic Monk’s Trail. Unlike other hikes up to Doi Suthep temple, this route follows a sacred path once walked by monks on their daily pilgrimage to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. It’s a beautiful, reflective alternative to driving up the mountain or following the more heavily trafficked routes. What makes this experience truly stand out is the chance to walk the trail with a local hill tribe guide who not only knows the terrain but also shares personal insights into the spiritual, cultural, and ecological significance of every step.One of the most special moments of the hike is arriving at Wat Pha Lat — a hidden jungle temple often described as a place that feels like it found you, not the other way around. Surrounded by lush greenery, flowing streams, and moss-covered statues, this peaceful sanctuary is a space where many travellers pause to reflect. It’s quiet, meditative, and imbued with a deep sense of presence. Many say they feel a sense of peace, grounding, or even awe here — like the forest and temple are holding space for something greater.If you're the type of traveller who values hidden gems, meaningful stories, and travelling in a more conscious way, this is for you. This small-group trip is best for mindful travellers keen on a bit of adventure. The hike is intermediate in difficulty, with some steep and rocky sections — so it’s great if you're up for a challenge and want more than just a scenic stroll. You'll get to visit two important temples (Wat Pha Lat and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep), dig deeper into hill tribe culture, and even stop for a remote lunch in the jungle.What to ExpectHike the sacred Monk’s Trail, once used daily by monks making their alms journey to Doi Suthep.Visit Wat Pha Lat, a hidden forest temple tucked into the jungle cliffs.Explore the stunning Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, with its golden chedi and sweeping views of Chiang Mai.Enjoy a peaceful jungle trek through bamboo groves, rocky paths, and past hidden waterfalls.Learn about hill tribe life from guides who are part of the community.Small group experience with authentic local insight and sustainable values.Good to KnowTrek is approximately 11km with around 750m in elevation — an intermediate challenge suitable for fit hikers.Includes round-trip transportation from hotels in or near Chiang Mai Old Town, within a 3 km radius of the Old Town, lunch, snacks and trekking insurance.Operated by members of local hill tribe communities — your participation supports small-scale, sustainable tourism.
Experience highlights
What You’ll be Doing
Trek Monk's Trail, visit Wat Pha Lat temples and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Enjoy lu, lunch, jungle hike, waterfalls.
Show Details
What’s Included
Round-trip transportation is provided from hotels in or near Chiang Mai City area
Lunch
Snacks during the trek
Water
Insurance coverage for the trek
Not included
Hotels located outside chiang mai city are not eligible for pick-up and drop-off
Tips for guide
Hiking gear
Available Add-ons:
Show Details
Who you’re supporting
Community Champion
Show Details
Additional Information
Where we'll meet
Start Point
Free pick-up from Chiang Mai Old Town(Old City, Thailand)
- 08:30am
End Point
- End at Start Point(s)
Start & Ends
Daily
09:00AM - 02:00PM
Suitability / Accessibility
- Child Friendly (No Minimum Age)
Cancellation & other policies
Cancellation
Cancel 7 days before activity for a full refund
What to Pack
- Camera for capturing the scenic views
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Hat and sunscreen
- Personal medicine ( if needed)
- Weather-appropriate clothing
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Meet your host
Ardo is an Akha local who grew up in a small village tucked into the hills north of Chiang Mai. His childhood was spent among rice paddies and close-knit communities, where local festivals were a big part of life. Over the years, he explored the region’s hidden trails and neighbouring hill tribe cultures, always looking for ways to connect more deeply with his roots. When he couldn’t find a tour that truly reflected the spirit of these places, he started his own. Now, Ardo shares his home and heritage through treks that feel personal and authentic. He’s thoughtful about sustainability and respects the communities he visits, making sure every guest walks away with more than just photos.
Experience: 5 years
Speaks: Basic English
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