At a Glance
Golden Buddha Mountain (Khao Chee Chan). This breathtaking laser-carved Buddha image, created in honor of the king, is a must-see for those seeking spectacular views near Pattaya.
Place Description
This isn’t your typical temple but rather a vast park at the base of a cliff, showcasing a 109-meter Buddha image covered in gold leaf. The atmosphere is more ceremonial than religious. The expansive, well-maintained grounds invite leisurely strolls. You’ll find both tour groups and independent travelers here, all eager to capture that iconic photo. Golden Buddha Mountain is somewhat removed from the center, conveniently located near Silverlake Vineyards and Ramayana Water Park, making it easy to combine visits.
The main draw is the sheer monumentality of the sight, especially striking at sunset. On the downside, aside from the rock and park, there’s little else to do. Visits rarely exceed 30-40 minutes. The area is completely open with minimal shade, so midday can be scorching. Despite its popularity, the site rarely feels crowded due to its vastness.
Basic Information
- Address: South of Pattaya, Na Chom Thian district. Look for Silverlake Vineyards.
- Opening Hours: Daily, approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. No point visiting after sunset—everything shuts down.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning (before 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (5:00–6:00 PM) to catch the sunset and avoid the midday heat.
- Budget: Entry is free. Donations are welcome. Restrooms cost around 5-10 ฿. Water and souvenirs are available at standard tourist prices.
Why Go
- Witness one of the world’s largest Buddha images, crafted with modern technology.
- Capture stunning photos: the golden outline sparkles in the sunlight.
- Enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the well-kept park at the mountain’s base.
- Visit one of Pattaya’s top attractions for free.
Insider Tips
- The best photo angle isn’t right at the base but from the pathway leading to the cliff. This way, you capture the entire mountain.
- Ignore guides offering lengthy tours. 30 minutes is sufficient for a visit.
- Restrooms are paid (5-10 baht) and reportedly not very clean. Be prepared.
- While there’s no strict dress code, it’s a sacred place. Cover shoulders and knees out of respect.
Logistics
- Tuk-Tuk (Songthaew): No regular songthaew routes here. You can only reach by taxi or rented transport.
- Taxi (Bolt/Grab): Simply search for “Khao Chee Chan.” The car will take you directly to the parking area.
- Own Transport: Large, free parking for cars and bikes. There’s almost always space.
The Unique Factor
The image was laser-engraved on the cliff in just two days in 1996 to celebrate King Rama IX’s 50th anniversary of reign.
Leave a Reply