CityNews – Local authorities are preparing for the traditional mountain walk to Doi Suthep for the upcoming Vesak Day.
This annual tradition for Vesak Day, where Chiang Mai people walk up Doi Suthep and join in a big merit making at the temple, is one of the most important religious events of the year. This year it is scheduled to take place on May 28th, the eve of Vesak Day.
Authorities will close Huay Kaew Road near the Chiang Mai University entrance from 4pm to 6am the next day. A roundabout will be set up at the Chiang Mai Phucome Hotel intersection to help reduce traffic buildup. People arriving by private car can park in the university, but authorities are urging people to use public transport. Footpath vendors are prohibited near the gate.
Songtaews will be available at the parking area of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and will shuttle people from the top of the mountain to the Livestock Office only.
Tourism Authority of Thailand and Doi Suthep-Pui National Park will carry out litter picking operations to keep the rubbish levels down and participants have been asked to generate as little waste as possible. There will be over a thousand volunteers working on collecting and segregating rubbish. Last year the event generated over 27 tonnes of rubbish. This year authorities hope to be able to reduce the waste generated to 20 tonnes.