Introduction
The Sanctuary of truth (Prasat Sajja Tham), designed similarly as Ayutthaya temple is a huge wooden structure located by the seaside at Nakula, Pattaya. It is about 105 m (344 ft) high and 100 m (328 ft) long having inside area of 2000 plus square meters. It is a hybrid of castle and temple.
The Construction started in 1981 by Lek Viriyaphan who also built Erawan Museum and the Ancient Siam Park. Though more construction is going on it is open to public. It is based on Buddhist and Hindu beliefs. It is an important attraction to visit in Pattaya.
The main aim of this structure is to explain the meaning of life and the concept of truth through works of art. The artworks reflect Thai, Khmer, Chinese and other cultures. They remind Rattanakosin era. Many people from different parts of the world visit this place every year.
Best time to Visit Sanctuary of truth
To avoid crowds, it is best to visit in the morning. If interested in sunset or lights visit in the evening.
November to March. Temperatures between 29C (85F) and 34C (93F)
How to get to Sanctuary of truth
The best way to go to the Sanctuary of truth is by taxi which may cost about 100 baht to 200 baht one-way. ‘JustGrab’ option is cheaper than Grab option. A motorcycle taxi may cost about 100 baht. It is about 10 km (6 miles) from the center of Pattaya. Baht bus is quite cheap. Travel to Soi 12 by baht bus. It is a 15-min walk from there.
Open timings and Tickets
These may change over time.
The Sanctuary of truth is open from 8 AM to 8.30 PM.
People are sent inside once in an hour. For example, after 10 AM, the next slot would be at 11 AM. One may have to wait in the queue.
Tickets can be purchased at the museum or online.
Adult: 500 baht (8 AM- 6 PM) and 700 baht (6 PM – 8.30 PM)
Children (110 – 140 cm): 250 baht (8 AM- 6 PM) and 350 baht (6 PM – 8.30 PM)
For groups, contact the museum for discount.
Tour guides are included in the cost of the ticket. Tour guides services are in Thai, English, Russian, Chinese, Korean and Arabic.
Combo ticket of Sanctuary of Truth and Art in Paradise if available may save some money. Art in Paradise is about 4 km away and about 10-to-15-minute drive away.
Tickets purchased are not refunded under any circumstances.
Dress Code
The dress code requires the body to be covered including legs and arms till elbows. If your dress doesn’t fit the requirement, you can rent or buy the required clothing there. A helmet is provided there and one has to wear it while going inside.
Time Required to see
2 to 3 hours
Things to do at Sanctuary of Truth
Thai dance performances at 11.30 AM and 3.30 PM
Dolphin show
Take photos and videos of the Sanctuary of Truth Museum from the View Point
Ride an Elephant or horse to go around the place.
Buy some food for Elephants and feed them.
Ride a horse carriage or a horse
Have a boat ride
In April one can experience Songkran festival.
Ride an ATV
Visit Mini Zoo
View lot of sculptures around the castle and take photos with them.
Watch wood carving workshop
Have a foot massage
Visit Souvenir shop
Seven Truths
The First truth is that Water, Fire, Wind and Earth are the source and destination for all.
The Second truth is that human beings live their lives by natural law.
The Third truth is that human beings came empty handed and leave empty handed.
The Fourth truth is that future generations are impacted by past civilizations.
The Fifth truth is to follow some renowned guidelines for goal of life.
The Sixth truth is about compromising in a society of good and bad.
The Seventh truth is about family values
Layout of Sanctuary of Truth
The Central Hall has a wooden throne with no deities around. It represents liberation, peace and truth. The message is to follow the guidelines shown in four noble truths of Buddha.
The Western Hall represents the Water, Fire, Wind and Earth, the four classical elements that are essential. The sculptures of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva who conquered these four elements are there in the Western Hall.
The Southern Hall represents the theme of astronomy with the sun, moon and planets (stars) denoting the three creators of life Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. They have an impact on the people and the environment.
The Northern Hall represents Taoism and Confucianism blending with Buddhist beliefs that ultimately through good deeds people gets liberated from vices, greed and passion to attain Nirvana.
The Eastern Hall represents the concept of family, love, mercy, creation of life, father and mother. It shows how important family values are in life.
Different types of joints used to combine wooden pieces
Butterfly
Long Dovetail
Carrying Pole
Lap
Finger
Tongue and Groove
Facilities at Sanctuary of Truth
Parking
Restaurants and Cafe
Toilets
Wheelchair or Collapsible Chair
Wooden lift for seniors, PWD and others who need
Prayer room
On-site shuttle for seniors
Family mart
Souvenir shop
Contact Details
Website: https://sanctuaryoftruthmuseum.com/
Address: 206/2 Moo 5, Soi Naklua 12, Naklua, Banglamung, Chonburi, 20150
Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
Tourist attractions in Pattaya
Art in Paradise
Pattaya Beach
Jomtien Beach
Mini Siam
Ripley’s Believe it or not
Walking Street
Terminal 21 mall
Tiger Park
Koh Larn (Coral Island)
Underwater World
Big Buddha
Buddha Mountain