SANCTUARY OF TRUTH IN PATTAYA

There is no denying that the Sanctuary of Truth is one of most interesting attractions in Pattaya. The wooden architecture of the building is similar to the architecture of Ayutthaya era, approximately 400 years ago.

The English name of this attraction is “Sanctuary of Truth”, in Thai it’s translated as Prasat Satchatham, with prasat meaning “castle” and satchatham meaning “philosophy”.

The building is over 105 metres high and covers an impressive 2 rai. The style of the Sanctuary evokes Khmer architecture, displaying hand-carved wooden sculptures indicative of the imperial setting at Angkor. It has four gopura, respectively representing images from the Buddhist and Hindu religions and mythologies of Cambodia, China, India and Thailand.

Every part of the attraction is embellished with magnificent wood carvings, without any cement or metal at all. Even the bolts that hold the wall, roof, floors and sculptures aloft are made of wood.

According to the official website, its purpose is to use art and culture as: “A reflection of the Ancient Vision of Earth, Ancient Knowledge and Eastern Philosophy. Within this complex, visitors will understand Ancient Life, Human Responsibility, Basic Thought, Cycle of Living, Life Relationship with Universe and Common Goal of Life toward Utopia”.

Although construction was started in 1981, the building has not been completed yet; it is being constantly added to, developed and repaired (against salt air deterioration) and is set for completion in 2025. For this reason, visitors need to wear a safety helmet provided when touring the facility with the assigned guide.

There is also a dolphin show to entertain visitors twice a day (included in your entry ticket, no extra fee required). The show is in the lagoon next door at 11:30 and 15:30 daily.

The Sanctuary of Truth is located in the Naklua area of Pattaya, a little way out of town on a spectacular piece of coastline with a great view. You can get there via baht bus (song thaew) or taxi.

The Sanctuary is open from 08:00 to 17:00 daily and the entrance fee is Baht 500.