Doi Suthep Viewpoint in Chiang Mai
Part of the Chiang Mai travel guide — see every topic in All Chiang Mai Guides.
Doi Suthep is the green mountain on the west side of Chiang Mai. It is part of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. The park starts only about 10 km from the city centre. The mountain has two peaks: Doi Pui at 1,685 m and Doi Suthep at 1,676 m. There are viewpoints over the city, forest trails, waterfalls and a cool climate. A famous temple sits on the slope, but this guide focuses on the mountain, its views and its trails.
Getting up the mountain
A winding road climbs the mountain from the west end of Huay Kaew Road, near the zoo. The trip by car takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Red songthaew trucks leave from near the Chang Phueak Gate, the North Gate of the old city, and wait until they are full. Agree on the price before you get in. You can also use a ride app or hire a driver for a half day. Strong cyclists ride up the road early in the morning, before the heat and traffic. The road has many curves, so take a motion sickness tablet if you need one.
City views and sunset
The best reason to go up is the view. From viewpoints along the road, you can see the whole city below, with the square old city, the airport and the flat valley beyond. Late afternoon and sunset are popular, when the city lights come on. Early morning can also be beautiful, with mist in the valley. Views are clearest in the cool season, from about November to January. From about February to April, smoke from fires in the north often hides the city in grey haze. After rain in the wet season, the air can be very clear, but clouds may cover the mountain.
Doi Pui summit and the Hmong village
Higher up the road is Doi Pui, the highest point of the park. From the Doi Pui campground, at about 1,500 m, there is a nature loop of about 2.6 km through pine forest. A branch of about 1.2 km climbs to the summit, but the summit itself is forested and has no wide view. Further along the road is Doi Pui Hmong village. It has a market with coffee, fruit and textiles. The air up here is clearly cooler than in the city, so bring a light jacket. The road beyond the main sights is narrow and steep.
Trails and waterfalls
The mountain has many trails. A popular forest path, often called the Monk's Trail, starts near Chiang Mai University. It climbs through the forest for about 30 to 40 minutes to a quiet old temple beside a stream and small falls. Strong walkers continue further up the mountain. The trail is steep, with roots and rocks, so wear proper shoes. Near the foot of the mountain is Huay Kaew waterfall, an easy short walk from the road. Mountain bikers use the network of forest trails. Some waterfalls and the campgrounds charge a park fee. Paths are slippery in the rainy season.
When to go
The cool, dry season from about November to February is the best time for clear views and comfortable walking. The rainy season, from about May to October or November, makes trails muddy and slippery, but the forest is very green. From about February to April, air quality across northern Thailand is often poor because of smoke from fires. Check an air quality app before you go, and skip long hikes on bad days. Weekends and holidays are busy on the road, so go on a weekday or early in the morning for a quieter visit.
Doi Suthep Viewpoint at a glance
| Getting there | About 30 to 40 minutes by road from the city; red songthaews from near Chang Phueak Gate |
|---|---|
| Hours | Viewpoints open all day; park offices and fee areas about 8:30 am to 4:30 pm |
| Cost | Viewpoints free; fee at some waterfalls and campgrounds |
| Best time | November to January for clear views; sunset or early morning; haze common February to April |
| Bring | Light jacket, walking shoes and water |