Morning Buddhist Almsgiving and Temples Tour in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Rating: 
Trip Type: Cultural Tours
Duration: 5 hours
Gain insight into the spiritual life of Thai Buddhists in Chiang Mai on this early morning tour with a knowledgeable private guide. Join devotees who provide morning alms to local monks, then climb the staircase to the golden pagodas of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, followed by a private blessing ceremony at the monastery of Wat Umong. Finish with a delicious northern-style noodle dish, complete with coconut milk and spices. Hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle are included in your 5-hour private tour.
More About This Activity All Cultural Tours →
Gain insight into the spiritual life of Thai Buddhists in Chiang Mai on this early morning tour with a knowledgeable private guide. Join devotees who provide morning alms to local monks, then climb the staircase to the golden pagodas of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, followed by a private blessing ceremony at the monastery of Wat Umong. Finish with a delicious northern-style noodle dish, complete with coconut milk and spices. Hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle are included in your 5-hour private tour.
Next visit Wat Umong, a 14th-century temple covered in moss and small plants. Walk through its mysterious tunnels to reach a monastery for your own private blessing ceremony with resident Buddhist monks.
Depart your Chiang Mai hotel by private minivan in the early morning, arriving at the foothill of Mt Suthep in time to buy offerings and join the locals during the daily almsgiving ceremony. Observe the serene Buddhist procession where dozens of saffron-robed monks walk barefoot through the street collecting food and everyday items. If you’d like, your private guide will help you participate by filling the monks’ alms bowls with rice.
Continue by van up the mountain to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep for a 309-step on the Golden Naga staircase to reach the temple’s golden pagodas. Take in the majestic view over Chiang Mai from the Buddhist monastery, which showcases traditional Thai architecture, richly decorated murals and shrines, and a replica of the Emerald Buddha.
Next visit Wat Umong, a 14th-century temple covered in moss and small plants. Walk through its mysterious tunnels to reach a monastery for your own private blessing ceremony with resident Buddhist monks.
After taking in the atmospheric sounds of chanting amid flowers, candles and incense, finish your morning with a delicious bowl of khao soy — a classic northern Thai dish combining coconut milk, crispy noodles and plenty of spices that are sure to delight the senses! You're dropped off at your hotel with plenty of time left in your day to continue exploring Chiang Mai on your own.
« Go Back