The Sanctuary Of Truth
The Sanctuary Of Truth
4.5
Points of Interest & LandmarksArchitectural BuildingsReligious Sites
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
About
The Sanctuary of Truth is a gigantic wooden construction which covers the area of more than two rais. The top point of the building is about 105 meters high. It was constructed to withstand the wind and sunshine on the seashore at Rachvate Cape, Tumbon Naklea, Amphur Banglamung, Chon Buri Province.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Does not meet animal welfare guidelines
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Admission tickets
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$15.42

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  • VKumar82
    Ranchi, India22 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A marvelous wooden structure
    This all wood magnificent structure is still under progress but it is worth visiting. It displays very fine details of various beliefs and journey of life made entirely out of wood. They have a in-site workshop for creating different structures. The entry ticket includes a guided tour as well.
    Hello there! We're glad to hear about your good experience with us. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences, and we hope the message of the 7 Truths of Life explained through carvings brings enlightenment to your life as you continue your life purpose. On behalf of the staff and management, thank you for visiting the Sanctuary of Truth Museum, and we hope to see you again sometime. Enjoy your next travel. Have a good day!
    Written October 24, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited October 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written October 3, 2023
  • David B
    Frankfurt, Germany7 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful Place
    The temple is very beautiful and majestic, is located right on the beach, is made of wood. Visit the famous ornate wooden temple and learn about the origins of Thai woodcarving. Create place to Brighton his horizon.
    Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We are super happy to hear that you enjoyed your visit with us. We hope you are taking the message of the 7 Truths of Life explained through arts and carving. May your next journey be filled with beautiful moments. We look forward to welcoming you back soon. Have a nice day!
    Written October 24, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited July 2023
    Traveled solo
    Written October 15, 2023
  • Ricoy
    Legazpi, Philippines658 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beyond words! Amazing place
    This is my second time visiting this place (the first in August of 2018 -- as a solo traveler) and this time with friends. It still never fails to amaze me and the grandeur of the place is still much to be admired. I dont think words can express how amazing this place is ... how magnificent ... and how it captivates one's heart and soul. I highly recommend this place to all who are visiting pattaya.
    Thank you, Ricoy, for sharing your experience with us! We are super happy to hear that you enjoyed your visit with us. We hope you are taking the message of the 7 Truths of Life explained through arts and carving. May your next journey be filled with beautiful moments. We look forward to welcoming you back soon. Have a nice day!
    Written December 6, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited November 2023
    Traveled with friends
    Written December 3, 2023
  • vineeth v
    198 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A must visit attraction in Pattaya
    Such an architectural masterpiece on wood. The craftsmanship portrayed in every nooks and corners of the building is incredible. A must visit place in Pattaya. The guided tour will provide the insights of each idol crafted in wood, the view to the sea through the sculptures is fabulous.
    Thank you for visiting the #sanctuaryoftruthmuseum and taking the time to provide a 5 stars rating. Hope you enjoyed your visit and wish you more lovely travel to come. Stay safe and have a good day!
    Written December 26, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2023
    Traveled with friends
    Written December 12, 2023
  • Robert Searle
    8 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Something worth visiting.
    This review will be shorter than some of my others. Because I have been typing a while. It is worth going, because it is unique, and as such worth a visit. Not sure I'd go again, but it was a pleasant, and unusual walk around. We went by taxi, organized by the travel agent. If you go in a white car, make sure you remember the make and number. I remembered where he parked, but the sun moved, and he moved to some shade. There were 1000 white cars in the car park, so it took me some time to find the driver.! I did not expect to be issued a hard hat. T.I.T after all. I carried it in my hand, because it was uncomfy.
    Thank you for visiting the #sanctuaryoftruthmuseum and taking the time to provide a 5-star rating. Hope you enjoyed your visit and wish you more lovely travel to come. Stay safe and have a good day!
    Written December 26, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited August 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written December 13, 2023
  • ozpix
    Australia503 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Great structure to check out.
    Amazing structure by the sea. Went there late in the afternoon and saw it in the afternoon sunset glow. As we went there late, we had very little free time. We were forced to wait about 30 mins to enter for the next English tour. There was no other option. The tour guide was very fast and a little bit annoying in the process. Would have been nice if you could just explore at your own pace.
    Hello there! Thank you so much for visiting the museum and for taking the time to write a review. We make it a point to be known for customer service, so this situation gets the management's attention, and your feedback is much appreciated. This would help us find the right solution to develop our services for future guests and visitors. Again, we apologize and wish you more meaningful and peaceful travel to come. Have a lovely day!
    Written December 28, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written December 27, 2023
  • Angus L
    1,087 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Worth every penny
    Great visiting for seeing the astonishing construction and hand made temple. Easy to go there and back by grab. Best time to go in the early afternoon and see the sunset. Make sure to check closing time. Very impressive construction and nice tour. Strongly recommended if you visit Pattaya.
    Hello there! Thank you for taking the time to provide us with your review. We're delighted that we fulfilled your expectations and hope to see you again someday. On your next trip, may you be surrounded by safety and comfort. Best regards!
    Written February 1, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited January 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written January 27, 2024
  • Mi Do
    Goa, India176 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I recommend visiting the Temple of Truth without fail!
    I think this is the most beautiful and impressive Temple, built and currently under construction from wood by master carvers. Located in Pattaya, Thailand. The ticket costs 500 baht. Quite detailed information can be found on the official website of the Temple. It makes sense to buy a ready-made tour, which includes delivery from the hotel and back after the tour, as it sometimes turns out cheaper. The guides give a lot of interesting information. I recommend visiting the Temple of Truth without fail!
    Hello there! Thank you for taking the time to provide us with your review. We're delighted we fulfilled your expectations and hope to see you again someday. On your next trip, may you be surrounded by safety and comfort. Best regards!
    Written February 1, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited January 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written January 30, 2024
  • mardun
    Leeds, United Kingdom15 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Amazing
    The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is an architectural marvel that offers visitors a unique and profound experience. This magnificent structure, entirely made of wood, stands as a testament to traditional Thai craftsmanship and philosophical thought. Unlike any other attraction in Pattaya, the Sanctuary of Truth is not just a visual feast but also a spiritual journey that delves into the essence of human philosophy, life, and the universe, as interpreted through art and architecture. One of the most compelling aspects of the Sanctuary of Truth is its intricate carvings that cover every inch of the structure. These carvings depict various themes from mythology, religion, and philosophy, illustrating the importance of truth, kindness, and the cycle of life. The attention to detail and the sheer scale of the artwork are awe-inspiring, making it a perfect spot for those who appreciate art and culture. Visitors to the Sanctuary of Truth can expect more than just a tour of a beautiful building. The sanctuary offers a reflective experience, encouraging guests to ponder the deeper meanings behind the carvings and the philosophies they represent. It's a place where art, culture, and spirituality converge, providing a unique perspective on the human condition and our place in the universe. The location of the Sanctuary of Truth, right by the sea, adds to its mystical allure. The ocean backdrop provides a serene and majestic setting, enhancing the overall experience of visiting this extraordinary monument. Whether you're interested in architecture, spirituality, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, the Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya is a must-visit destination that promises a truly enriching and unforgettable experience.
    Thank you for sharing your amazing experience with us! We are super happy to hear that you enjoyed your visit with us. We hope you are taking the message of the 7 Truths of Life explained through arts and carving. May your next journey be filled with beautiful moments. We look forward to welcoming you back soon. Have a nice day!
    Written February 29, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written February 13, 2024
  • ryanschock
    Shenzhen, China177 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Amazing Architecture
    Amazing temple and incredible architecture. They have nice guided tours about 40min. each offered in several different languages. Not a lot of history since this structure is quite new, but definitely worth visiting.
    Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to provide us with your review. We're delighted that we fulfilled your expectations and hope to see you again someday. On your next trip, may you be surrounded by safety and comfort. Best regards!
    Written February 29, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written February 21, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Magellanic47
Bangkok, Thailand1,046 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2020 • Solo
It is rare for me to be overwhelmed with emotion when entering a museum.. A monument or just seeing a painting.
Today I witnessed something remarkable.. The detail of artisanship and craft that has been invested in this ongoing project is staggering. I am humbled to say the site and sight truly moved me.

Wheelchair friendly.
Guided tours in English and Chinese
Entrance fee of 500Thb
And shoes on all the way.
Sacred reliquaries in the museum for worshippers.

The tour itself will take about an hour.. And then you can rome to take pictures as needed.
The fee includes the use if a helmet while in the museum as construction is still ongoing.

Covid rules in place. Please have a mask when going.
Also note.. You will need to climb stairs.. If this is an issue.. Please mention it before meeting at the tour assembly point.
Written October 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

gypsy7277
Bengaluru, India37 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Nov 2019
We visited the sanctuary in Nov 19.We had a rented car and it was a comfortable drive to the sanctuary. Easy to find. There are no banks or ATM s in the nearby area, so do carry cash.There is an entry fee.
You can either walk down from the entrance area to the temple as part of the group tour or you can drive down.
We drove down .The view of the sanctuary against the backdrop of the sea is stunning and awe inspiring.You can take your car down to right in front of the temple and there is a parking location near by.
Work is still going on and parts of the structure are covered by scaffolding.We were there at mid afternoon so the weather was humid and a tad uncomfortable.
There is a lift (you have to find the staff to operate it)to access the structure.So that way I would say that the temple is wheel chair accessible .Water and food are not allowed inside.As there is work still going on you will be given hard hats to wear and follow the staff instruction .There are guides who conduct brief tours of the structure explaining everything ,but we didn't go for it as the weather and the overall atmosphere was uncomfortable due to the heat.

Other facilities available include very neat restrooms', souvenir shop, restaurent and there is a factory on site where you can see the wood carving process going on .Kids can enjoy feeding some pet animals and a horse or elephant ride.

Overall I do feel it was very worthwhile and highly recommend please do visit if in Pattaya.
Written January 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

lucas12014
Leeds, UK90 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020 • Couples
It was a bit over priced but was a beautiful hand carved temple.... Ladies had to have their legs covered so either wear long pants or take a sarong with you. You can hire one for 200 baht which you get back. I did not particularly like how I felt animals were exploited for money... Goats, horses and elephants... Definitely worth a visit if you are in pattaya.
Written January 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Jeep
1,430 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2020
Located on the seashore, this flamboyant Thai style wooden structure presents the mixture concepts of Buddhist and Hinduism with uncountable amounts of details carved along every square inches of its wall and pillars. Visitors can enter the place in the given schedule (every 30 minutes starting from 08:30 to 17:00). However, we fed a lot of grass to goats and deer while we were waiting for the next round.

In each group, there is a guide that will explain some facts, concepts and philosophies behind some ornaments. Also, each visitor will be given a helmet ; since, there are always some constructions and maintenances (which never will complete) at the place. In my opinion, this place is stunning and its intense decoration is gorgeous (feel like modern Angkor). There are so many nice spots, so don't forget your camera.

Although our guide was very nice and tried to provide many interesting facts for us (such as the place was constructed in the old way without using a single nail), I think that 1 hr lecture is too exhaust for most visitors (30 minutes should be enough). After wandered around and took numerous photos, we ended up in a souvenir shop and bought a small wood carving.

Entrance fee is 500 baht (but we bought 380 baht best price from klook). In fact, there are many activities (with extra charge) can be done in this place, for example, horse riding, elephant riding, ATV driving, canoeing along the river and taking speedboat to the sea.

Really splendid !
Recommend.
Written September 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for visiting the Sanctuary and for leaving a review. Your review about the 1-hour tour is noted. (this is to really give the guests the details of the place, the reason why it takes 1 hour) Have a nice day!
Written October 20, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Lekha Shankar
Bangkok, Thailand42 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2020
THE SANCTUARY OF TRUTH'

An outstanding amalgam of culture, religion, architecture.

Of Hindu,Buddhist Faiths.

Of Indian Apsaras, 'Mahabharath' excerpts,a cavalcade of our Gods, including Vishnu,Shiva,Ganesh, Parvati,and others.

The brainchild of a wealthy and widely travelled couple,with a strong philosophical mind, Lek and Prapai Viriyabhun,the construction of the 'Sanctuary' started in 1981, and is still not complete-!

Numerous craftsmen are still creating more intricate figures, and weaving more mythical stories.

What I missed most, was getting a proper brochure ,or commentary about this cultural and architectural masterpiece.

The Guide made basic comments about beauty, truth, love, which were vague and inane.

Being Indian, I recognised many of the Indian Gods, and stories.

But what about the many other international tourists who were dazzled and curious by this all- wood masterpiece?
With a 500 B entry fee, surely a good brochure or good explanation by Guide,is reasonable?

When so much detail has gone into the making of every frame and figure, surely there could be more details of its verbal, cultural and historical connotations-?
Written July 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Silva K
Bangkok, Thailand162 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2020
The place was something that I never expected but the inside of the Sanctuary was very hot, the administration must find a way to have some air flow inside. Some landscaping must be done and maybe the price of Thb 500.00 could be slightly steep for the locals and tourist groups. I loved the trip with my family, its all starting from Hinduism, as safety is most important if no nails were used for the construction, I hope continued safety checks are done.
Written September 8, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Christopher
14 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
Allow at least 2 hours. Maybe more. Start early. All taxi drivers know the location. Prepaid taxis are available for the return journey - just walk to the exit. Refreshments are available. Lots of "add ons" available. Such as elephant rides. Your call on that one. Buddhists will have the opportunity to pray for merit. But this is more a museum dedicated to the glorious Hindu an Buddhist roots of Thailand. It is not actually a Temple."Sanctuary" is a fitting description. Beware: The site is constantly under repair. So scaffolding will always be visible. That's what you expect when you build a massive teak structure in the sand and salt air. The claim that no nails or screws have been used is not actually true.But major joinery I am sure is legitimate. You'll see the odd nail or two on decorative panels. And the wood is aggressively painted to stop it rotting. But for the most part it is what it claims to be: solid teak.
Written March 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Kevin
6 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2020
Tucked away on the shoreline of Naklua in northern Pattaya is this amazing structure made entirely of wood and carvings with no steel nails.

Entrance is from Naklua Soi 12 and for a small entrance fee you can stay in the grounds all day and enjoy this magnificent place. There are guides that can show you around and explain the meaning of the different parts of the structure. There is also a workshop where the highly skilled craftsmen and women are at work making the parts and figures that make the Sanctuary of Truth what is is. I believe they have been building it since the 1980s and it is still not complete.

Also in the grounds which are jungle like and quite large there are elephants with handlers as well as a small lake which you can hire a small boat and feed some fish. On the shore next to the lake there is a shop selling refreshments like tea coffee, water juice, beer and snacks. Next to that there is seating and a stage where every hour or so Thai traditional dancers perform followed by a traditional Thai sword fight which is quite impressive.

All this and you can't even see it from downtown Pattaya, around 200thb from downtown in a taxi cab and you're there, best to go around Mid morning so you have plenty of time to enjoy this place.

So no trip to Pattaya or Thailand for that matter is complete without a visit to 'The Sanctuary Of Truth'.
Written April 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Coke
Bangkok, Thailand371 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jul 2020 • Family
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum is a gigantic all wood construction located at the relaxing Rachvate cape of Naklua Pattaya City, Chon Buri, Thailand. They pay homage to and are a reflection of the Ancient Vision of Earth, Ancient Knowledge and Eastern Philosophy and they adorn every single surface – both inside and out – of the building. The admission fee is 500 baht for adults and 250 baht for children (under 12 years old). There are also small zoo and the restaurant inside the place.
Written July 31, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

erryted
Brisbane, Australia245 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2019 • Family
We visited here while on a day trip from a cruise ship.

This structure is stunning and well worth the trip. They have guides who speak different languages who will guide you through the building or do it on your own.

It is stunning piece of handcrafted workmanship that is still being built.

The wood carving and ornate pieces are stunning. The story behind this privately owned masterpiece is inspiring.

The culture dance performance was nice to see.

There are quite a few stairs to get down and up to see this building, but well worth the effort.
Written January 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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The Sanctuary Of Truth - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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