The Sanctuary of Truth: Pattaya's Wooden Masterpiece by the Sea
Rising 105 metres above the sea in Naklua, The Sanctuary of Truth is one of the largest all-wood buildings in the world and Pattaya's most unforgettable cultural landmark. Every surface is covered with hand-carved sculptures telling stories of religion, philosophy and morality. Under construction since 1981, it is still a living workshop today: craftsmen carve and restore its sections in front of visitors.
What to Expect
A monument like no other: a gigantic temple-palace built entirely of wood, supported by 170 carved wooden pillars, on a seaside headland facing the Gulf of Thailand.
Carvings everywhere: gods, mythical creatures and scenes inspired by Thai, Hindu, Buddhist and Chinese traditions, built around the idea of living together with mindfulness and balance.
A guided visit: visits follow a guided route through the carved halls, with a safety helmet inside, since construction is still ongoing.
Shows and workshops: a cultural show on the water during the day, and craftsmen at work on the carvings.
Day or night: in the afternoon, the sun lights up the carved wood. In the evening, the illuminated sanctuary reflects on the water: two completely different experiences.
Practical Information
Address: 206/2 Moo 5, Soi Naklua 12, Naklua, Bang Lamung, Chon Buri 20150
Day visit: every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, last entry around 5:00 PM
Evening visit: every day from 6:20 PM to 8:30 PM
Recommended time: 2 to 3 hours, including the guided tour
Official website: sanctuaryoftruth.com
Good to Know
Dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered. Sarongs can be borrowed free of charge at the entrance.
Best time to visit: come early in the morning for cooler air and fewer visitors, or in the late afternoon for the golden light on the carved wood.
Comfortable shoes: the visit involves a lot of walking on uneven wooden floors.
Photography: photos are welcome, but drones require permission.
Getting there: Bolt or Grab is the easiest option, or ask our team to arrange your transport.
Exclusive Offers for Our Guests
Staying in one of our villas or hotels? As a PATTAYA LAND guest and YOLO Member, you enjoy exclusive offers and reduced rates on a selection of shows, activities and venues in Pattaya. These offers are not available to the public: they are reserved for our guests who are YOLO Members, for the duration of their stay.
Not a member yet? Joining is free, and you can sign up before or during your stay.
Our Concierge Team takes care of everything, from booking your tickets to your transport, and keeps discovering new places to make every stay even better. Just send us a message on WhatsApp, Line, WeChat, Telegram or KakaoTalk at +66 976 500 500.
Where to Stay in Pattaya
PATTAYA LAND offers a selection of private pool villas in Soi Pattaya Land, near Walking Street, with different capacities to suit couples, families and groups of friends. For larger groups, several nearby villas may be booked together, subject to availability.
Prefer hotel services? Our hotels in Pattaya offer a 24-hour front desk, room service and all the comfort of a hotel stay.
Carved wood by the sea at sunset, your private pool by night. You Only Live Once.
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Make the Most of Your Day
Naklua and North Pattaya have plenty more to offer:
Terminal 21 Pattaya: an airport-themed shopping mall in North Pattaya
Pattaya Vegetarian Festival: Naklua's colourful festival, every year in autumn
Beaches and Islands: Wong Amat Beach and the best beaches around Pattaya
More Things to Do: the best sights and experiences in Pattaya
Opening hours, prices and conditions may change. Please check before your visit.