The Suan Dok Temple on Doi Suthep Road consists of several chedis. The main chedi is decorated with gold leaf and features an airy wihaan (a type of open-air structure). While not among Chiang Mai's most popular tourist attractions, the temple offers a monk chat program (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM) and meditation sessions (every Wednesday and the last Friday of the month). For more information, visit www.monkchat.net.

The easiest and cheapest way to reach Wat Suan Dok in Chiang Mai is by taking one of the red taxis that roam the city. Tell the driver your destination before taking a seat in the back. The fare is a fixed rate (last known fare for foreigners: 40 THB). Alternatively, if you are on the route or not far from the R3 Smart Bus line, you can mark the stop at the temple. There are also ride-hailing apps like Grab that can help you get around Chiang Mai.

Wat Suan Dok is a temple, and when visiting a temple in Thailand there are some rules to follow: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), take off your shoes when entering the building, be quiet, do not hug or kiss, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to Wat Suan Dok? The easiest and cheapest way to reach Wat Suan Dok in Chiang Mai is by taking one of the red taxis that roam the city. Tell the driver your destination before you get in the back. The fare is a fixed rate (last known fare for foreigners: 40 THB). Alternatively, if you are on the route or not far from the R3 Smart Bus line, you can mark the stop at the temple. There are also ride-hailing apps like Grab that you can use to get around Chiang Mai.