The Top Ten Things to Do in Pattaya, Thailand

Top Ten Things to Do in Pattaya, Thailand

Image by Seamus sourced from wikimedia commons

Pattaya is a formerly quiet and sleepy fishing village in Thailand’s Chonburi province that has gradually developed into the city it is today since the 1960s.

Chonburi is a largely coastal region on Thailand’s eastern Gulf. As one of the prime attractions of the area, and located less than 200 kilometres from Bangkok (and just 2 hours away), Pattaya is now a resort city lined with hotels, condos, shopping malls, bars, pubs and clubs. The area also features several designer golf courses, many with sweeping views of Pattaya Bay.

Needless to say, it’s a convenient place for tourists, Bangkokians, and expats alike to enjoy the sun, sea and sand. And although it is fair to say that Pattaya has developed a somewhat colorful reputation over the years, which probably has something to do with its raucous nightlife, the city also has much more to offer in the form of all kinds of other activities.

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Some areas obviously remain, for the time being at least, more of an ‘adult’ playground – particularly around the vicinity of Walking Street, the main entertainment hub in town. This is easily avoided, however (recommended), and those travelling with families might want to head for the Jomtien Beach or Naklua segments of the city. These areas are obviously still touristy, but are much more subdued than the bustling ‘entertainment’ parts of town.

In recent years, the government has made efforts to make Pattaya more family-friendly, so there are a host of children’s attractions such as water parks and aquariums. In fact there is a whole host of things to do in Pattaya.

1. The Sanctuary of Truth

Billed as “the magnificence of heaven recreated on Earth,” this massive ornate wooden temple is a study in Thai architectural styles and a marvel to behold.
The structure was built to display historic building techniques, and also to represent Buddhist philosophy of impermanence. Taking a tour of the place allows one to learn about the historic and religious importance of the intriguing wood carvings inherent in the structure.

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The Sanctuary of Truth Museum is the apparently largest woodcarving structure in the world. Visitors to the museum will see intricately decorated wooden carvings, and soak up the vibe of the structure which was built in homage to ancient religions and philosophies.

Some of the themes reflected in the artwork and architecture include references to the cycle of life, and humanity’s relationship to the universe. Inside The Sanctuary of Truth visitors will see a 4-faced Brahma which symbolizes the rulers’ great morals based on Hindu and Buddhist ideology. At the centre is a throne, and each section represents a different moral meaning for humanity.

The Eastern rooftop features a beauty queen carrying the scriptures, while the Northern rooftop features a Hindu deity carrying a lotus. On the Western rooftop there is a beauty queen carrying ears of paddy, along with a pigeon, and on the Southern rooftop is a fairy holding the arm of a child and an old man. The central apex depicts another deity on horseback – and all of this is explained in terms of its symbolism.

Visitors can also expect to learn how many ancient wooden structures were built by joining techniques unique to the region. There is also the option to participate in the construction of this miraculous national & world heritage structure.
Optional extra activities such as horse riding, sightseeing by speedboat, or sightseeing by ancient boat are also on offer. There are also Thai cultural shows as well as Thai boxing.

ADDRESS: 12, Naklua, Banglamung
Website: http://www.sanctuaryoftruth.com/

2. Nong Nuch Tropical Botanical Garden

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The expansive, park-like sanctuary of Nong Nuch Village is a destination offering various activities that are ideal for visitors, including those with families.

In this haven from bustling crowds can be found colorful themed gardens, including a topiary garden with winding walkways, a period-inspired 17th-century French garden along with a similar European Renaissance garden; and for budding botanists there is a species-specific garden which includes plants like tropical varieties such as palms and bonsai. There is also a wonderful orchid garden showcasing the tropical flower native to Thailand.

The Botanical Garden Sanctuary has a Thai Cultural Hall which features performances related to local culture such as traditional Thai dancing, sword-fighting, Thai boxing, and a show with elephants.
Renting a bicycle is possible in order to explore the park, which is not a bad option.

Address: 34/1 Moo 7 Na Jomtien, Sattahip
Official site: http://www.nongnoochtropicalgarden.com/home/

3. Ramayana Water Park

Ramayana Water Park offers a fun-filled and exhilarating day out for water-lovers of all ages. Apparently it is ‘the biggest and best water park in Thailand,’ which may or may not be true, but it does have a total of 21 different water-themed rides on offer.

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The various colourful water slides that weave and spiral around the park include a pretty severe freefall, along with somewhat less extreme slides for the smaller children.

There is a fantastic double wave pool, an aqua-splash park containing fountains, and even a green maze. A more subdued river ride weaves through caves and bubbling geysers, and there are other fun activities like water polo, fish feeding, Zumba, and volleyball.

Address: 9 Moo 7 Ban Yen Rd., Na Chom Thian Sattahip District
Official site: https://www.ramayanawaterpark.com/

4. Wat Yangsangwararam

For those with an interest in Thai Buddhism and the architectural design typical of most temples in the region, Wat Yansangwararam (also known locally as Wat Yan) offers impressive insights into traditions and values inherent in the culture.

Image by Chainwit sourced from wikimedia commons

Expansive palm-studded gardens surround the temple, which was dedicated to King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1988 to commemorate his 42nd year on the throne.

And as with many famous temples in Thailand, a variety of Buddhist relics considered most precious are housed in the main chedi of the complex, which also has a lake, with impressive Chinese pavilions housing various antiques and artifacts.
The main shrine of Wat Yansangwararam stands atop a hill which is reached after negotiating a flight of 299 steps lined with the Thai ‘Naga’ snakes.

5. Zip Lining Adventure

For those feeling a little more adventurous than simply lounging on beaches or strolling around gardens, there are a variety of outdoor-type pursuits that are available in and around the Pattaya main centre.

The Tarzan Trail is a great way to take in the surrounding the lush forests of Pattaya. There are various platforms for various levels that allow participants to move from tree to tree, by negotiating an assortment passages such as rope bridges, Tarzan swings, flying skateboards, and of course, giant zip lines.

These are the kind of adventures available through many of the local tour operators, or you can make your own way there if you fancy it. There is a mandatory briefing outlining the correct use of the slings, carabiners, pulleys, and harnesses involved in the adventure in a safe manner.

Regardless of age, the course is for all participants. This is maximum, outdoor, tropical, fun and excitement, and an unforgettable experience. Apparently, from a safety aspect all of the equipment is guaranteed to French Standards.
Participants are recommended to have at least moderate physical fitness levels though, and it might also be an idea to book in advance.
For more information check out:

PATTAYA ZIP LINING ADVENTURE (Blue Course) (25 Stations): https://www.viator.com/tours/Pattaya/Tarzan-trailBlue-Course-25-StationsPattaya/

6. Bungy Jumping

If the zip lining is not extreme enough for you then there is always the option of bungy jumping. Pattaya Bungy Jumping, which is strangely, but perhaps reassuringly, certified by the Standards Association of New Zealand, allows participants to jump from one of the highest bungee platforms in Thailand – 60 metres, in fact.

Image by pattaya bungy sourced from wikimedia commons

You will find English, Canadian and Thai jump instructors at the site to outline the safe procedures for jumping and assist with the jump. An ascending cage will take you to the top when you are ready to jump. It actually takes just over a minute to reach the full jump height and then it is get ready time.

This is another activity that may benefit from booking in advance, and again can be arranged either through a local tour operator or independently. If you do this as part of a tour you will benefit from a pick-up at your Pattaya hotel.

Check out more information about Pattaya Bungee Jumping  HERE: https://www.pattayabungy.com

7. Koh Larn

Koh Larn (Larn Island) is a small, reasonably peaceful, and scenic island which is just 30-minutes away by speed boat or 45-minutes by ferry from the main stretch of Pattaya.

Image by Ponwit sourced from wikimedia commons

Koh Larn (also known as ‘Koh Lan’) has several white-sand beaches stretching across the shores of the island. Being an island it is obviously somewhat more laid back than the mainland beaches, but you will find food stalls, and plenty of water sports activities as well as restroom facilties.

Some of the most popular options include banana boat rides, parasailing, and underwater Sea Walking, to name a few.

One of the nicest beaches is Tien Beach, and on Nual Beach you will commonly find monkeys roaming around. It is actually possible to stay overnight on the island and at Samae and Tawaen beaches there are a variety of resorts which are popular will all, including families.

8. Art in Paradise

Art in Paradise is an illusion art museum that also has branches in Bangkok and Chiang Mai. This is the ideal place for fun photo opportunities, and is ideal for families and couples alike.

Image by Art in Paradise sourced from wikimedia commons

The scenarios offer life-like artwork that allow a variety of interesting photo options, such as tickling the belly of a whale, touching a rhino, or tackling a huge marlin. The 2-D paintings utilise impressive tricks of depth to give a 3-D scene from certain angles.

There are different zones, all with their own themes, featuring 10 unique galleries comprised of illusion art related to Egypt, classic art, an underwater world, a safari, prehistoric dinosaurs, and various other types of fantasy. Each gallery and the vibrant and realistic details of the paintings make for amazing photo memories to show off to family and friends.

Established in 2013, the Art in Paradise Museum prides itself as the largest interactive art museum in the world.

Address: 78/34 Pattaya Sai 2 Road, Muang Pattaya, Nongprue, Bang Lamung, Chonburi Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150
Official site: https://www.artinparadise.co.th/

9. Four Regions Floating Market

The Four Regions is the only floating market in Pattaya. It is a busy little area of bustling commerce divided off into different sections.

Image by Horiuchi sourced from wikimedia commons

The vendors at the market ply merchandise from all over Thailand, such as arts and crafts, clothing, and other types of souvenirs. The floating market is a great place to discover and indulge in some exotic local cuisine, and if you are up for it you are likely to find such delights as scorpions, crickets, and even crocodile meat.

It is possible to rent a boat to explore the markets, however, unlike the more authentic and less touristy floating markets in other regions, you do have to pay admission fees.

Address: 451/304 Mu 12, Sukhumvit Road, Tambon Nong Prue, Amphoe Bang Lamung

10. Mini Siam

Mini Siam is a fun and interesting way to see some of the most famous sites of Thailand and of others from around the globe – miniature style.

This is another family-friendly Pattaya attraction, where you can see to-scale versions of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and the Bridge on the River Kwai. Also on display the Victory Monument and Wat Arun (also known as the Temple of the Dawn) from Bangkok.

Image by RuslikO sourced from wikimedia commons

Most international visitors might consider the Thai side more interesting, though a Mini Europe section contains the Eiffel Tower, and also on display via a network of paths, bridges, and water features are international landmarks such as New York’s Statue of Liberty, the Sydney Opera House, Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa, London’s Tower Bridge, and the Arc de Triumphe in Paris.

Again it might be worth booking in advance for this particular Pattaya attraction, and tickets are available online to save time waiting on line on the day. Mini Siam is largely uncovered, so just bear in mind, especially with children, that in the open-air the sun can be intense. The park contains a few food stalls and other options are available at the front.

Mini Siam sits on Sukhumvit Highway (Route 3)—the main road from Bangkok to Pattaya, relatively close to Pattaya Hospital. It is probably easiest to book tickets that include round-trip transfers, or maybe even hire a driver for the day. The place is open 7 days a week from morning until late evening, and early evening is a great time to visit when the models are floodlit and temperatures are a little lower.

Address: 387 Moo 6 Sukhumvit Road, Pattaya City Naklua, Banglamung