This will be our first time in CM even though we have been in BKK many times. So we have a visit planned to DS. I understanding it is beautiful and the view from the top is overwhelming.

However, I have trouble climbing stairs, and am pleased to know there is an elevator to the top for those of us who are "challenged." My concern is: "Is this elevator safe?" One of the forums says there were several accidents there (it might have been a very old forum) so I hope safety is not a problem.

Those who have been there recently -- what is your take on this?

Thanks.

Sandra/McBeanie

the last time i went there we drove up the back driveway and got right to the top....ask if this can be done...then no climbing, except for a few steps....

Bob, there is no road to the top, unless it's been built in the last two years. The road does go up to the building where you can take the elevator. I know of no reason to be concerned about the elevator. Depending on your "challenge" you might be able to take teh stairs down.

Never heard about any problems with the elevator...and it seems completely benign. Doi Suthep is the biggest tourist attraction in Chiang Mai, so I'd assume that they pay special attention to safety (to mitigate their potential risk) considering the sheer amount of tourists in and out of that place in a day.

Actually, it's not an elevator, it's a cable tram. There were some accidents many years ago (about 10) and the whole thing has since been rebuilt to make it safer. I wouldn't worry about it.

I was there exactly 10 years ago and took the steps...all 300 and something of them. I counted each one. Happy Travels!

as stated the tram gave way twice i think and many were hurt, but this was a long time ago...

there is a road to the right....we took it and it was perfect for lazy people like me....the tram accident had been just before our stay and was not in service...

I felt safe going up on the tram. We walked down, which wasn`t strenous.

Thanks everyone! I think I will be able to walk down, Kathie, just not up.

Sandra/McBeanie

some complain that their legs hurt more from walking down....

maybe you could just roll down??

Maybe you could hire a porter to carry you (and your bags) down the stairs?...and wear a giant sunhat to protect you from those dreaded mosquitos? Don't forget to stop by D'Sens for some foie gras!

Sorry, sandra, not aimed at you--just a little trinket for the those who remember a certain someone...

hey she is from LA so we expect her at the GTG in march...

\get lots of party favors while in bkk btw....