On Khao Phra Tamnak, a small hill between South Pattaya and Jomtien, stands the Great Buddha (or Phra Yai in Thai). It was built in 1977, when the town was still a quiet fishing village. The Phra Buddha Sukhothai Walai Chonlathan, also known as Luang Pho Yai, is the largest of its kind in Chonburi province, standing at 18 meters tall. However, it is far from the 95-meter-tall statue at Wat Muang in Ang Thong, which remains the tallest Buddha statue in Thailand. A long staircase, flanked by two golden naga serpents, leads to the main statue. Unfortunately, the view from the top isn't particularly good. Just in front of the Great Buddha temple is the Chinese temple Wang Sam Sien. It lies behind Chaloem Phrakiat Park and a promenade where yoga classes are held in the mornings during the high season.

The most adventurous can reach the Great Buddha of Pattaya by starting on foot from the southern end of Pattaya, heading uphill on Phra Tamnak Road and continuing through Chaloem Phrakiat Park in front of the Tourist Police office (this is faster than following the road). Alternatively, you can take a motorbike taxi or a songthaew.

The Great Buddha of Pattaya is a temple. When visiting a temple in Thailand, there are some rules to observe: appropriate clothing (knees and shoulders should be covered), remove shoes upon entering the building, be quiet, no hugging or kissing, do not point your feet at the Buddha statue, and do not smoke.

How to get there

How do you get to the Great Buddha of Pattaya? Particularly adventurous people can reach it by walking uphill from the southern end of Pattaya along Phra Tamnak Road and continuing through Chaloem Phrakiat Park in front of the Tourist Police office (this is faster than following the road). Alternatively, you can take a motorbike taxi or a songthaew.