Doi Suthep (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Doi Suthep?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Children enjoy the cable car, temple gong, and nearby waterfalls, yet 300 steps, cliff edges, and lack of play zones or kid-height railings mean parents must supervise constantly, so suitability is moderate.
Positives:
- Cultural Exposure: Kids can observe monk rituals and learn about Thai temple traditions up close.
- Photo Opportunities: Bright murals and carved statues make colorful backdrops for family photos.
Challenges:
- Steep Stairs: The naga staircase has 309 steps; use the cable car if children tire easily.
- Crowded Weekends: Midday crowds form at the cable car and stairs; expect waits during peak hours.
What is Doi Suthep?
- A 5,499-foot mountain rising within Doi Suthep–Pui National Park northwest of Chiang Mai
- Hosts Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a 14th-century Buddhist temple adorned with golden chedis and naga-flanked staircases
- Encompasses evergreen forests threaded by hiking trails and scenic viewpoints over the Chiang Mai valley
What is so special about Doi Suthep for with kids?
- Easy cable-car ride to the hilltop temple avoids lengthy climbs.
- Temple terraces offer sweeping Chiang Mai city views.
- Shallow waterfall pools nearby let kids splash and picnic.
- Base-of-mountain cafés provide family-friendly rest stops.
- Rich cultural displays teach children about Thai temple life.
Recommended visit duration: 3–5 hours
Why 3–5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the cable car, temple visit, waterfall splash break, and snack stop without rushing children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Doi Suthep
Cable Car to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep:
Ride the tram to the temple summit and skip 309 steps.
Tip: Children under 90 cm ride free; confirm child rates at the booth.
Temple Terrace and Naga Staircase:
Walk the terrace for panoramic city views and climb the naga serpent stairs.
Tip: Hold children’s hands on stairs and go early to avoid lines.
Huay Kaew Waterfall Picnic:
Splash in shallow pools and picnic on bamboo mats at the base.
Tip: Rent mats onsite for 20 THB; bring towels and extra clothes.
Snack Break at Base Cafés:
Enjoy shakes, cakes, and cold drinks before or after the climb.
Tip: Budget 100–200 THB for a family treat and choose a shaded table.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Doi Suthep
- Go Early: Arrive by 8 AM to beat crowds and enjoy cooler morning temperatures.
- Pack Light Snacks: Bring small snacks and water to save time and money on-site.
Reviews of Doi Suthep
Alicia Takhellambam
Definitely touristy but you'll see many locals coming here for praying. Ticket is 50 thb per person. Quite large it took 1 hr to explore the entire place. Take your time and embrace the moment while you sit in the praying area while listening to the sound of small bells.
Charlie
Doi Suthep is breathtakingly beautiful and easy to get to. Just take a song teaw from central Chiang Mai and you can easily get here. The toilets are very clean and the water was very cold and fresh. You can get to the top by using the gondola if you don’t want to take the stairs with a cheap price.
Gregory Bessert
Doi Suthep: Chiang Mai’s Golden Axis Between Earth and Sky High above Chiang Mai, wrapped in jungle mist and legend, rises Doi Suthep—the mountain that spiritually anchors Northern Thailand. Long before it dazzled with gold, the journey began in silence at Wat Pha Lat, a hidden forest temple once used by monks and kings as a place of rest and purification. Here, waterfalls murmur past moss-covere...
Javed Akhtar
I visited Doi Suthep Temple with my family, and it was an unforgettable experience. The temple is absolutely stunning, with beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere that makes you feel instantly calm. The view from the top is incredible — you can see the entire Chiang Mai city spread out below, and it’s truly breathtaking. We had an amazing time exploring the temple grounds, enjoying the ...
Martin Hills
This is about a 40 minute drive out of central Chiang Mai and is well worth a visit. The drive up here is an interesting, twisty, road through the trees with some viewpoints. There is a small entrance fee and you can take a short funicular ride up and back rather than the steps if your knees give you problems. The temple complex itself is beautifully preserved and very clean despite the crowds ...
When is the best time to visit Doi Suthep (Chiang Mai, Thailand)?
Visit November–February for cool weather and clear views. June–October brings rain and slippery steps—pack rain jackets and slip-resistant shoes.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Temple entry (30 THB per person) | THB 120 |
| Cable car (50 THB adults, 30 THB children) | THB 160 |
| Picnic mat rental | THB 20 |
| Snacks and drinks | THB 200 |
| Total Estimated | THB 500 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Doi Suthep
Address: Doi Suthep, Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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