The original founding of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep remains a legend and there are a few varied versions. The temple is said to have been founded in 1383 when the first stupa was built. Over time, the temple has expanded, and been made to look more extravagant with many more holy shrines added. A road to the temple was first built in 1935. Today the chedi is the most holy place, built on the site of the original stupa. There is a legend of a white elephant which dropped dead at this site reportedly carrying a piece of the relic of Guatama Buddha during to reign of King Nu Naone in the Sukhothai Era.

Source: Site visit