Chiang Mai Family Manual: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Night Safari & Night Bazaar

Northern Thailand's Premier Family & Cultural Experiences

Chiang Mai captivates visiting families with its blend of ancient golden Buddhist monuments, cooler mountain breezes, and engaging nocturnal wildlife encounters. Structuring a 3-night/4-day Northern Thailand extension allows travelers to experience Thailand's spiritual cradle in complete comfort.

Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: The Holy Mountain Beacon

• Spiritual Significance: Founded in 1383 by King Keu Naone to enshrine a sacred shoulder bone relic of the Buddha carried to the mountain summit by a holy white elephant.
• Ascent Logistics: Visitors can climb the famous 306-step stairway flanked by magnificent multi-colored ceramic Naga serpents, or ride an enclosed motorized funicular rail to the temple summit at 3,500 feet.
• Monk Blessings: Guests can participate in traditional morning Theravada Buddhist merit-making, receiving sacred cotton string wrist blessings (Sai Sin) from resident monks.

Chiang Mai Night Safari

Modeled after Singapore's famous nocturnal zoo, the Chiang Mai Night Safari in Hang Dong spans 300 acres of natural woodland. Guests board specialized open-sided electric trams accompanied by multilingual wildlife guides. Two primary tram circuits (Savanna Safari and Predator Prowl) bring visitors within arm's reach of zebras, giraffes, white rhinos, hyenas, and Asiatic black bears in naturally landscaped open habitats.

Chiang Mai Night Bazaar & Anusarn Market

Evenings are spent exploring the expansive Night Bazaar along Chang Khlan Road, packed with Northern Thai handicrafts, hand-carved soap flowers, Thai silk scarves, silver jewelry, and vibrant Indian dining spots (including Taj Mahal and Royal India).