Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

This is the spot many mean when they say the Sanctuary of Truth looks better in photos than in a description. Just a short walk from the main entrance, it offers a breathtaking view of the entire building, the intricate wood carvings, and the coastline in the background. Photography is expressly encouraged, including group photos. Those who want to feel like a princess can rent a Thai royal costume upstairs for 400 baht.

Entry costs 500 baht, which is a bit pricey, but it includes a one- to two-hour guided tour. Groups are divided by language shortly after entry, and once inside, you can explore on your own. The guides are very knowledgeable about the Buddhist and Hindu carvings, so I would recommend going with a guide, at least for the first part of your visit. The building is still an active construction site; you can watch the carvers at work, and you'll be given a helmet. There's a small restaurant on-site serving chicken dishes, juice, and mango with jasmine rice.