Shrine of northern Thailand Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep was founded in 1386 by King Kue on when the miraculous circumstances. According to legend, the relics of the Buddha, the most valuable relics were laid in the chedi (stupa) Wat Suan Dok in Chiang Mai. However, mysteriously multiplied relic, and the question arose: where it is located. Since the exact location could not choose, it was decided to place the relic on the back of a white elephant, and to give him the right to choose a suitable location of the future temple. After much walking around the elephant he came to the mountain of Doi Suthep, blew three blasts, turned three times and died. Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep was built on top of this mountain.

Construction of the temple had been pending for several years with great difficulty, all goods had to raise the steep slopes to a height of 1,000 meters through the jungle. The road to Doi Suthep Phrathat Vatu was built only in 1935. Now to get the church is not a problem, and the road around the preserved nature pleases waterfalls, more than 300 species of birds and many others.

On the way to the temple pilgrims awaiting trial: a long staircase with 300 steps. (If you wish, you can use the cable cars nearby.) However, all the work will be rewarded with a cotton wool pad Phrathat Doi Suthep a magnificent view of the whole Chiang Mai and its surroundings.

At the temple is a statue of the famous white elephant, as well as a magnificent gilded chedi, created in the image of the temple Phrathat Haripunchay in Lamphun (the main church of the former kingdom of Lamphun). Around the chedi are 4 openwork gold umbrella, is a delightful example of art in the Lanna style.

The temple Phrathat Doi Suthep annually celebrated the two most important Buddhist events - Maha Puja (the anniversary of the Buddha's sermons) and Visakha Puja (Buddha's birthday). Both holidays are celebrated in solemn procession with candles, starting from the foot of the mountain.