Waiting for our guide “Nop” to take us on our tour of temples on Doi Suthep and a visit to see the elephants. He was our guide with the grandsons in 2023.

Our guide, “Nop”, explains about Lanna culture and Buddhism.

Vibrant, Lanna flags, known as “Tung”, commonly used in ceremonies and festivals around Chiang Mai.

Woven bamboo animistic Lanna decoration.

A temple building richly decorated with Nagas and a Chofa sculpture at the roof top. The Chofa is the distinctive, horn-like architectural finial that adorns the apex of temples and palace roofs in Thailand. In Chiang Mai temples, these ornate, bird-like spires traditionally symbolize the mystical creature, Garuda. It is the vehicle of the Hindu god Vishnu, and acts as a protector for the sacred building. In the middle is a triangular pediment decorated with glass mirrors.

The intrepid temple explorers.

Buddha sculptures.

We are next to the temple steps surrounded by Singha lion guardian statues.

A weathered, multi-armed temple deity.

The path led us to this wonderful spot to see the city of Chiang Mai far below.

Wat Pha Lat, also known as Wat Sakadagami, is a Buddhist temple located on the slopes of Doi Suthep, above Chiang Mai. Founded by King Kuena of Lanna in the 14th century, Wat Pha Lat served originally as a resting place for pilgrims making the journey up to the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.

Buddha sculptures inside one of the temple buildings.

Walking up a trail surrounded by jungle is this atmospheric brick stupa with Singha lions.

A gilded, seated, Buddha sculpture.

Wat Pha Lat is a serene and wonderful temple to visit, and often has fewer visitors.

The Girls loved the temple grounds.

A pavilion was set up for a ceremony and decorated with pictures of Thai Royalty.

Naga steps down the hill.

The plant surrounding the door is known as “Angel’s Trumpet” and is highly toxic.

“Ok, are we ready for lunch and the ride to Elephant EcoValley?”

Photos: Dick Gentry. Not to be used without permission.