The enchanting temples of Chiang Mai - Gaze in awe at the stunning religious sites in Chiang Mai

The temple known as Doi Suthep is an integral component of the architectural and religious landscape of the city. In fact, it is believed by locals and travellers alike that if one has not sampled Khao Soi or visited Doi Suthep, they really have not visited the city of Chiang Mai. Doi Suthep is located atop a tall mountain and thus, boasts of a stunning view of the city. The forest within which the temple is located was declared a national park in 1981. The temple, which is located within the Doi Suthep National park, is one of the most well known and frequently visited sites in Thailand. The temple itself is quintessentially Thai as it has a golden exterior and a stunning Chedi. Located in the vicinity is the royal residence known as the Bhubing Palace.

Another famous temple in Chiang Mai is the Wat Bupparam, which is located on Thapae Road and is open from 7 am until 6 pm daily. It is undoubtedly one of the most frequented sites in Chiang Mai, after Doi Suthep of course, due to its location. The Wat Bupparam is located quite close to the old entrance to the city. The entrance, known as the Thapae Gate, is often touted as a major tourist attraction by many a Chiang Mai hotel, prompting many locals to make the visit. Since Wat Buppparam is located a mere half a kilometre from the Gate, tourists often opt to visit this temple, which was built in 1497.

Built during the 15th century, the Wat Jet Yod is an unusual wat found in Chiang Mai. Wat Jet Yod is found in the northern part of Chiang Mai and history records that it was built to host the 8th World Buddhist Council. Those who have visited other wats and temples in the area will notice that the architectural design of this Wat is quite different: it has seven towers, which sit on a square base. This different design is attributed to the fact that the architect drew inspiration from the Indian Mahabodhi Temple in Bodhgaya.

Wat Chai Mongkhon is located in the heart of Chiang Mai and should not be confused with the temple of the same name in Songkhla. The Wat Chai Mongkhon is easily accessible from both the Ping River and from the Charoen Prathet Road. Those coming from the Wat Ket area will have to cross the Iron Bridge over the Ping River and take a left turn onto Charoen Prathet Road. The turnoff to Wat Chai Mongkhon is just after the Anantara Chiang Mai Resort. This temple is a Buddhist temple, which is home to a statue of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V), stunning woodcarvings and a serene view of the Ping River.

For a stunning view of a beautiful pagoda, make your way to Wat Chedi Luang, which has become an integral feature of the skyline of the city. Built during the latter part of the 14th century, the Wat Chedi Luang used to be the home of the Emerald Buddha, which presently lies in Bangkok at the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.