The hilltop temple offers Chiang Mai's iconic view. 30 minutes by red truck (songthaew) from the Old City.
Climb the 309-step Naga staircase OR take the funicular (50 baht). Both deposit you at the same gold-spired terrace.
Sunrise (6:30 AM) and sunset (17:30 PM) are most photogenic. Mid-day is crowded and harsh-lit.