The tunnels
Candlelit passages under the hill.
Vano111ru — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Chainwit. — CC BY 4.0 · Chainwit. — CC BY 4.0 · Chainwit. — CC BY 4.0
A tranquil forest temple more than seven centuries old at the foot of Doi Suthep, famous for its tunnels: arched brick passages dug beneath a small hill, said to have been built for a monk who loved solitude to meditate in, with Buddha images lit by candles in their niches and faded traces of ancient paintings on the walls. Above the tunnels rises a large old stupa, surrounded by a wide shaded forest whose trees hang small signs of proverbs and teachings in Thai and English, known as the talking trees. The grounds hold a lake where visitors feed fish and turtles, a garden of old statues, and a meditation centre that welcomes foreigners. Entry is free, and it is open in the daytime. The tunnels are narrow and dimly lit, so move quietly. Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees covered, and shoes off before entering the halls. From February to April, smoke from farm burning often hangs over the north, cutting visibility and air quality. An ideal place for calm away from the busy old city, easily combined with nearby Wat Pha Lat. An hour is enough.
Candlelit passages under the hill.
Proverbs hung on branches.
Fed by visitors.
Suan Buddhadham, west Chiang Mai near the university
Not scary, but narrow and dim. Most children enjoy them as a short adventure with a parent.