Steps Through Serenity: Hiking the Monk’s Trail

Hiking the Monk’s Trail is an experience that blends nature, history, and quiet reflection. The moment your feet touch the earthy path, you can feel the calmness that surrounds the route. Lined with bamboo, forest shade, and gentle sounds of birds and insects, the trail invites you to slow your pace and fully take in the beauty of the mountain.

The Monk’s Trail is famous for its peaceful atmosphere. Traditionally used by monks walking between temples, the path carries a sense of respect and simplicity. Along the way, you may come across bright orange cloth wrapped around tree trunks—markings that guide both monks and hikers upward. These splashes of color stand out beautifully against the deep greens of the forest.

As you hike higher, the air becomes cooler and the forest grows thicker. The climb can be challenging at times, but the surroundings make every step worth it. Sunlight filters through the leaves, creating soft golden patterns on the ground. Occasionally, you’ll catch the sound of distant chanting or temple bells carried by the wind, adding to the trail’s spiritual charm.

Reaching the viewpoints or arriving at Wat Pha Lat, a peaceful jungle temple hidden along the trail, feels like uncovering a quiet secret. The temple blends into the forest with waterfalls, stone paths, and gentle statues that make the place feel almost magical. It’s the perfect reward after a steady hike—calm, sacred, and breathtakingly beautiful.

Location

• The trail starts near Chiang Mai University on the way up to Doi Suthep.

• Look for the entrance marked with orange monk robes tied around the trees.

What to Expect

• Length: ~2 km to Wat Pha Lat

• Time: 45–60 minutes one way

• Difficulty: Easy to moderate

• Trail Type: Forest path with shade

• Landmarks:

  • Bamboo forest

  • Small stream crossings

  • Scenic viewpoints over Chiang Mai

The highlight is Wat Pha Lat, a peaceful forest temple with waterfalls and meditation spots. You can explore around the temple and either:

• Continue hiking up to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep (steeper, 1.5–2 hours more), or

• Hike back down, or

• Take a red truck (songthaew) back to the city from the main road.

 Best Time to Go

• Early morning or late afternoon

• Cool season (Nov–Feb) is ideal

What to Bring

• Water (there’s no shop on the trail)

• Comfortable shoes

• Bug spray

• Hat/small towel

• Sunscreen

Tips

• Avoid hiking after dark—no lights on the trail.

• The path can be slippery during rainy season.

• Respect the temple grounds (quiet, modest clothing).