Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

Founded in 1383, Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most revered temple in northern Thailand. Legend has it that a white elephant carrying a relic of the Buddha climbed the mountain, trumpeted three times and died on the spot where the chedi now stands.

The gilded chedi, the surrounding cloister and the terrace views over the Ping valley are best seen early in the morning, before the tour coaches arrive and while the monks are still chanting.