Perched up on a hill above Chiang Mai, Doi Suthep overlooks the vast plains below. The temple has been there since the 14th century, after a Buddha relic was strapped to a white elephant, which was allowed to wander until it died at this spot, determining the location to build the Wat.
We climbed 306 steps to get to it, the balustrade comprised of gorgeously ornate tiles, which is supposed to be a meditative process before entering the Wat. For us, it was an aerobic exercise in the humid heat!
The chedi (Thai stupa) is amazing. Gold everywhere……dazzlingly maintained.
There are examples of the Lanna-styled three tiered roof, wooden carvings, and colorfully patterned gables. 
The numerous Buddha statues that adorn each alcove, cornice and cranny are equally interesting and beautiful.
Ilona found the biggest gong ever!
There were beautiful spaces interspersed between the buildings, with tree, flower and places to sit.
We have seen umpteen Wats in Chiang Mai, as they are on every street in the old city (which was formerly walled and moated). The city was abandoned and in ruins. Wat Suthep is memorable as it elevated on the hills, and we have been looking up to it for the last 10 days, and with the changing light and thin blankets of long cloud, it looked all the more enchanting and alluring.
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