This photo taken is the staircase up to the Doi Suthep... where we can view all the Chiang Mai city from above. I just engaged a red colour tuk-tuk (like mini van/car) and cost me 65 Baht to go up and its the cheapest way to travel up here. And the temple was amazing... it is one of the must visit place in Chiang Mai.
The original founding of the temple remains a legend and there are a few varied versions. The temple is said to have been founded in 1383 when the first chedi was built. Over time the temple has expanded, and been made to look more extravagant with many more holy shrines added. A road to the temple was first built in 1935.
Only shame was that it was wrong timing to visit the temple as they undergone renovation before prayer season. But it was still an eye opening to visit the temple..... plus if you come with your loved one, you can donate a get a wing bell just like in the photo, make a wish for long lasting relationship and hang it surrounding the temple....
And also its White elephant's legend which said to have climbed up Doi Suthep (at the time called Doi Aoy Chang - Sugar Elephant Mountain), trumpeted three times before dying at the site. The white elephant was carried ancient relic of the Buddha. Thus, it was interpreted as a sign and the King of Chiang Mai (at that time) ordered the construction of a temple at the site.
