Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is a Buddhist temple in Chiang Mai. The temple is located atop Doi Suthep, a mountain overlooking Chiang Mai that gives the temple it’s colloquial name. The temple is located 15 km from the centre of Chiang Mai and is a revered site to many Thai people. From the temple grounds visitors can take in impressive views of Chiang Mai, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Wat Arun is one of the most famous temples in Thailand. The temple was built in the days of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and known as Wat Makok (The Olive Temple). Later, King Taksin changed the name to Wat Chaeng.
The Wat was briefly host of the Emerald Buddha, which was moved to Wat Phra Kaew in 1784.
The later King Rama II changed the name to Wat Arunratchatharam, Restoring the temple and enlarging the central Khmer style prang (tower) that is to this day it’s defining feature. The work was finished by King Rama III. King Rama IV gave the temple the present name Wat Arunratchawararam, or Wat Arun as it is known commonly.