Big Buddha Pattaya: An Iconic Sacred Temple Just Minutes from The Royal Cliff Hotels
Standing magnificently atop Pratumnak Hill, the Big Buddha in Pattaya is one of our seaside city’s most well-regarded cultural and religious landmarks. Known locally as Wat Phra Yai, this golden statue stands at 18 meters (59 feet) tall, making it the largest Buddha statue in the area. It acts as both a religious site as well as a popular tourist attraction, drawing locals and visitors alike with its grandeur.
The History Behind the Big Buddha Pattaya
While Wat Phra Yai was constructed in the 1940s when Pattaya was still a humble fishing village, the Big Buddha in Pattaya was erected in the 1970s as part of an effort to strengthen the Buddhist influence in the region. Built with immense attention to detail, the massive statue took several years to complete, covered in gold to glisten beautifully in the tropical sun of Thailand. Rising high above, it stands not just as a cultural landmark but also a towering symbol for peace and enlightenment. It continues to be a place of worship for many local Buddhists. Natives of the area frequently visit the religious site to pray, light incense, and offer flowers, believing that the Buddha’s presence brings good fortune and prosperity to your life.
What to Expect During Your Visit to the Big Buddha in Pattaya
Just a 5-minute drive from the Royal Wing Suites & Spa, Wat Phra Yai welcomes visitors daily from 07:00AM to 22:00PM. There is no entrance fee required to visit this place. However, visitors must adhere to the temple’s dress code. As this is a religious site, proper and modest attire is required, with shoulders and knees covered. Shoes must also be removed before entering any sacred areas within temple grounds.
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Exploring the Temple Grounds (Wat Phra Yai)
To get to the Big Buddha in Pattaya, visitors must climb a grand staircase with over 100 steps, flanked by two golden Naga serpent statues. The Naga is a serpent-like creature from Thai mythology, believed to be the celestial guardians of the water. Within Buddhism, they symbolize protection. The temple grounds also feature several smaller Buddha statues, each representing different days of the week, as well as shrines and pavilions where monks carry out religious ceremonies.
A Captivating 360 Viewpoint
One of the great highlights of visiting the Big Buddha in Pattaya are the awe-inspiring sights from Pratumnak Hill. From the viewpoint, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Pattaya, indulging in the beauty of its bay and city skyline. It’s a perfect spot for taking pictures or quiet contemplation. People at times visit the temple just to meditate. There is no better place to feel at peace, watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting dramatic golden hues across Pattaya.
Buddhist Rituals and Traditions
For visitors eager to learn and experience more of Thai Buddhist culture, the temple provides several meaningful practices you can partake in. People can ask to receive sacred blessings from resident monks, who traditionally sprinkle holy water as a gesture of good fortune and spiritual cleansing. Visitors also have the opportunity to make merit through traditional offerings, presenting incense or fresh flowers to the temple’s Buddha statues. Additionally, guests can observe local worshippers in their spiritual practices, watching as they engage in prayer or meditative ceremonies, offering an authentic glimpse into daily Buddhist life.
Visit The Big Buddha in Pattaya: A Must-Visit Cultural Experience
Whether you seek cultural enrichment, a spiritual experience, or simply a stunning view, the Big Buddha in Pattaya is a must-visit destination when you’re in our coastal city. As one of Pattaya’s most cherished landmarks, it offers a serene contrast to the city’s bustling beaches and nightlife. When staying at the Royal Wing Suites & Spa, we make temple visits effortless for our guests. Simply contact our dedicated Guest Relations team, and we’ll arrange comfortable transportation to and from the temple for you. It would be our pleasure to make sure this historic cultural landmark is added to your itinerary, helping you discover one of Thailand’s most cherished religious sites. There are a myriad of things to do in Pattaya that we can recommend to you; merely ask our staff and we can organize it for you with utmost delight.
To book a stay and experience the unparalleled luxury present in every step of the guest experience at the Royal Wing Suites & Spa, send us an email at reservations@royalcliff.com or contact us through LINE at @royalcliff.