Rolf Heinrich, Köln · Sanctuary of Truth 2016-02-19-01.jpg · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0
Sanctuary of Truth
A 105-metre all-wood sanctuary at Na Kluea, begun in 1981 and still being carved.
Sanctuary of Truth
The Sanctuary of Truth stands on the shore at Na Kluea, at the northern end of Pattaya, and it is the one thing in the town that is unarguable. It is built entirely from wood — Mai Deang, Mai Takien, Mai Panchaat and teak — with no structural steel, and it rises to 105 metres at its tallest spire. Lek Viriyaphan began it in 1981 and it has never been finished; carvers work on site while visitors walk through, replacing timber that the sea air has taken and adding to what is still incomplete. That is the reason to come. A finished building of this kind would be impressive; an unfinished one, with the work visibly going on around you, is something else. Go in the late afternoon, when the light comes off the Gulf onto the carving.
Explore Sanctuary of Truth on the map
City locations, drawn from our published destination data. Attractions, hotels and restaurants are not mapped yet.
What to see
A building being made, which is not the usual proposition.
The structure
- The four wings and the central spire, entirely in wood and joined without structural steel.
- The carving, which covers effectively every surface inside and out.
- The seaward elevation, where the sanctuary reads against the Gulf.
The work
- Carvers working on site — the building has been under construction since 1981.
- The replacement of weathered timber, which is continuous because of the salt air.
Getting there
Na Kluea, at the north end of the bay.
Arriving
- It is north of the main beach at Na Kluea — a short ride rather than a walk from central Pattaya.
- Shared songthaews run north along the coast; agree the fare first if you leave the fixed loop.
- From Bangkok the town is around two hours by road.
Best time
Late afternoon, for the light on the carving.
When to go
- Late afternoon, when the sea light reaches the carved surfaces and the day coaches have gone.
- November to February is the dry, clear season on this coast.
- Weekends are busier — this is Bangkok’s nearest coast.
Visitor intelligence
It is an active building site as well as an attraction.
Practical
- Hard hats are issued at the entrance and are worn inside — construction is genuinely ongoing.
- Dress is expected to be modest; coverings are available at the entrance if needed.
- Allow an hour and a half. The detail rewards slow walking more than a circuit does.
Nearby
The north end of the bay and the islands.
Frequently asked
Plan your journey
Our travel designers turn knowledge and inspiration into a journey crafted entirely around you.
Plan My Journey →