That afternoon I took a local songthaew up to Doi Suthep, a hillside temple located about 18 km from the center of town. Built in1383, the Lanna-style temple is considered as the symbol of the city. The songhaew parked near a series of stalls selling souvenirs, food, drinks, incense, and flowers. To reach the temple complex we had to walk up a long series of stairs, flanked on each side by the colorful serpentine Naga figures. In the first courtyard, children from different hill tribes performed traditional songs, dances, and played instruments. Commanding center stage of the main courtyard was the large gold-plated chedi, partly covered by scaffolding. A golden decorative umbrella was off to one side. Devotees placed lotus flowers, lit candles, and burned incense. Lining the edge of the roof were small bells from which dangled flat leaf shapes with names on them. Along the walls of the hall were newer-looking murals. Numerous altars and niches offered places for reflection and worship. From the temple site as well as the ride up, one has great views of Chiang Mai.
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