Riding up Doi Suthep is the classic first mountain trip from Chiang Mai. In about 15 km you go from the city to the golden temple of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, with a waterfall, a jungle temple and city views on the way. Here is the route, what it costs and how to ride it well.
At a glance
- Distance: about 15 km from the Old City to the temple
- Riding time: 30–40 minutes one way
- Level: confident beginners in dry weather; the road is winding and steep in places
- Best time: early morning or late afternoon, ideally on weekdays
- Bike: any 125 cc scooter for one person; 155 cc or more for two
The route
- Head west from the Old City on Huay Kaew Road, past Nimman and Chiang Mai University, towards the foot of the mountain near the zoo.
- Start the climb on the mountain road to the temple. From here it is a steady climb with many bends and a few steep sections.
- Stop at the viewpoints on the way up for views over Chiang Mai.
- Park at the temple in the motorbike parking area at the top.
Stops on the way
- Huay Kaew Waterfall: right at the foot of the mountain, a short walk from the road. Since 1 October 2025 foreign adults pay a 100 THB national park fee here.
- Wat Pha Lat: a peaceful temple in the forest, halfway up. No park fee when you arrive by the main road.
- Wat Phra That Doi Suthep: the main event. Foreign visitors pay a small temple fee (30 THB at the time of writing). Climb the long naga staircase, or take the funicular for a small extra fee.
Going further up
The road continues past the temple towards Bhubing Palace and the Hmong village of Doi Pui. It gets narrower and steeper, and Doi Pui is one of the areas where the national park fee applies. Only continue if you are comfortable with steep descents, and turn back well before dark.
Tips for the ride
- Go early. Before 8 am the road is quiet and the air is cool. Weekends and holidays are busy with cars and red songthaews.
- Brake gently on the way down. Use both brakes and a steady, slow speed; do not ride the brakes all the way down.
- Dress for the temple. Shoulders and knees covered; carry a light layer, as it is cooler at the top.
- Rain changes everything. The road gets slippery and foggy in the rainy season. If it pours, wait it out.
- Carry your license and IDP; checkpoints are common on the way out of the city. See our license guide.
Which bike to rent
Riding alone, any light 125 cc scooter such as the Yamaha Fazzio or Fino climbs Doi Suthep without trouble. With a passenger, take more power, such as the Honda Click 160 or Yamaha NMax 155.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to visit Doi Suthep?
The temple charges foreigners a small entrance fee; the funicular is extra. The national park fee (100 THB for foreign adults) applies to places like Huay Kaew Waterfall and Doi Pui, not to the temple itself when you use the main road.
Is the Doi Suthep road dangerous?
It is a well-paved but winding mountain road. In dry weather, riding slowly, it is a good first mountain ride. Avoid it at night and in heavy rain if you are new to riding.
How long should I plan?
Half a day is comfortable: an hour of riding in total, plus time at the waterfall, Wat Pha Lat and the temple.
Last reviewed: September 2026. Roads, opening hours and fees change; check before you go. Cover photo: เทวประภาส มากคล้าย, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Sources: Chiang Mai CityLife (park fees, 2025).
Ride up Doi Suthep this week
Scooters from 250 THB/day, delivered in Chiang Mai. Free to reserve.
Book a bike
