Sanctuary of Truth
Rising dramatically above the seafront on Rachvate Cape just north of Pattaya, the Sanctuary of Truth is the world's largest construction of hand-carved wood, intended to showcase Asian religious statuary art through the ages (Thai, Indian, Cambodian, Indonesian and Chinese). It's 100m from wing to wing and 105m tall.
A visit to the Sanctuary starts with a short ride in a horse-drawn cart to the top of the overlooking slopes. Then it's a long, long descent down some wooden steps to shore level. Not something to contemplate if you're a bit wobbly on your knees!
When you get to the bottom you're provided with a hard hat to wear when you're moving round the building. Construction started in 1981, and it's about 85% complete. The last 15% is expected to take about another 15 years. But they've already had to start replacing bits of it as the sea air and termites take their toll. It's also been struck by lightning several times. (The local expat community rather unkindly call it the Temple of Doom...)
The carving is remarkably ornate - some of the statues appear almost elfin in their grace and mystery. There are plenty of signs to explain what all the various figures represent, though, so no danger of missing any of the symbolism. There are plenty of staff to help show you around the place too. At times they can seem a little too attentive, but they're only trying to help; if you make it clear you're happy wandering around on your own, they'll leave you to it.
All in all, it's an impressive sight, and one that well repays the 500 baht entry fee. That's the minimum package which gets you a guided tour round the building, plus a half-hour dolphin show. You can also hire a speedboat so that you can see the Sanctuary from the sea, feed (and even swim with) the dolphins, help with the carving and take part in countless other activities. And if you feel like a snack or a drink, there's a not-bad little restaurant there too.
