Must-Do / Must-See Lists for Pattaya?

[Mr Unix]

Hi guys!

 

My older brother will visit me for three or four days during my upcoming trip. He spends lot of time on Koh Samui and other islands, but he has never been to Pattaya before.

 

What would you do if you had to show somebody around for 3 or 4 days and where would you eat?

 

I thought about:

- Sabai Land / Sabai Dee

- Soi 6

- Walking Street at Night

 

- Sanctuary of Truth

- View Point Area

 

- Seafood Buffet at the Montien hotel

- Beefeaters

 

Is there anything left one should see/do while in Pattaya?

 

Cheers

Unix

[hedonist]

Sanctuary of Truth isnt all its cracked up to be IMO

At a cost of 500 Baht per person there is precious little to see apart from a building site (wher you have to wear a safety helmet to go inside) and a downmarket "Dolphin Show". You will be in there less than two hours, and see it all

Works out at about 250 Baht an hour

Viewpoint isnt bad though

Neither is the Bali Hai Pier area looking close up to the "Welcome To Pattaya City" sign........as long as weather is ok, that is

Eats can be good at Pattaya Beer Garden

 

Hedonist

[porndog]

Hell club, lolitas, and you could allways bum a ladyboy if you get board,,oh and I nsomnia is a good club for tunes and fanny

[Slacker]

How about Nong Nooch Tropical Garden for a day out ? It's probably better with a couple of ladies along for the ride !

Edited April 27, 2009 by Slacker

[eanto]

You could go bowling for an hour or so at PS Bowl early evening and then a nice relaxed stroll down soi 8!

[SlickMonkey]

Found this posted somewhere before by another poster. Sorry if I dont give credit as I cant remember who posted it. I saved it in word format.

 

OUTER ISLANDS Pattaya has two groups of islands off its western shore.

The KO LARN group of islands is comprised of KO LARN, KO KHROK and KO SAK with the largest being Ko Larn. is situated to the west of the Pattaya Strait, about 7.7 kilometers from the shore and is under the jurisdiction of Pattaya City.

 

There are beautiful beaches, clear water and an abundance of coral. Visitors can observe the coral from either a glass-bottomed boat, or by diving. A well known beach is Ta Waeri Beach, on the northern part of the island.

 

Also popular are Laem Thiari Beach and Samae Beach on the south western side, and on the southern side Nuan Beach.

 

On Nuan Beach there is a hotel which can accommodate a large number of tourists. This is another good place for viewing coral reefs. Popular activities on Ko Larn include renting a motorbike to explore, swimming, coral viewing, parasailing and water skiing. Jet skiing and tube riding.

The Pattaya Ferry from Bali Hai Pier to Ko Larn is only 20 baht and makes two roundtrips daily,

KO KHROK is comprised mostly of rocks, and is an ideal place for coral viewing, but not swimming.

KO SAK is another small island 600 meters away from Ko Larn.

Ko Sak and is shaped like a horseshoe. The coral reef can be found off of the beach, and snorkeling is also possible in this area.

 

The second island group is the KO PHAI group of islands comprised of KO PHAI, KO MAN WICHAI, KO LUAM. KO KLUANG BADAN and others, with Ko Phai being the largest. The Ko Phai group of islands is about 13 kilometers from Pattaya, and is presently under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy.

It takes about 2 hours to get to the top of the hill on Ko Phai. Visitors can enjoy relaxing, swimming, fishing, and a host of fun activities. Boats to these islands can be chartered from Pattaya Beach.

 

PATTAYA BEACH is about 4 kilometers long. The beach faces Pattaya Bay, and is where smaller boats depart to visit Pattaya’s offshore islands. The coast is lined with lounge chairs and large umbrellas for rent for only 20 baht for the day along with food, drink, massage, newspapers and souvenirs you can buy. The beach curves from north near the Dusit resort to south at Walking Street and is largely paralleled by a beautifully landscaped tree-lined promenade with fabulous sculptures and fountains along the beach road lined by hotels and restaurants. The northern part of the beach past the Dusit in Naklua is largely tranquil, while the central and southern parts become increasingly lively, thanks to the juxtaposition of shops, department stores, boutiques, beauty salons, supermarkets, bars, discotheques, restaurants, and nightclubs In the central part of the city is a major shopping area; while in the southern part is one of Pattaya’s major nightlife areas.

 

JOMTIAN BEACH is a 6-kilometer long, largely straight beach, some 4 kilometers south of Pattaya. It is the most notable of several beaches and resorts in the Pattaya area. The beach is popular with windsurfers and water sports enthusiasts because the area enjoys brisk and fresh breezes that sweep inland from the Gulf of Thailand. It is also less congested and has fewer beachside hotels, bungalow complexes condominiums and restaurants than Pattaya.

 

KHAO PATTAYA is also known as Buddha Hill or Phratamnak Hill.

From Its peak, one has a panoramic view of Pattaya City and Pattaya Bay from the Navy radio station and the sacred Buddha image enshrined on the hilltop that is ideal for paying homage. Go up Phratamnak Road from Pattaya Tai or Third Road or the new road from Bali Hai towards the Sheraton and Royal Cliff.

 

SUAN CHALOEM PHRA KIAT (FITNESS PARK) is halfway to the top of Pattaya Hill on Phratamnak Road just before the TAT Pattaya office. This small park covers an area of 15 rai and u as dedicated on December 5, 1988, to commemorate His Majesty King Rama IX sixtieth birthday. The park boasts a wide variety of flowering plants, and there are also multi-purpose grounds and winding trails for walking orjogging plus standard exercise facilities. On any given day, a large number of people relax, jog, exercise, practice Tai Chi or simply enjoy the scenery of Pattaya from this park.

 

MINI SIAM is a miniature city with 1 to 25 scale replicas of 80 sacred places and important historical sites around Thailand and around the world. Replicas of places of world significance such as the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, Tower Bridge and Trevi Fountain are also displayed in the “mini world” area.

There is also a mini racecourse (go-karts) for visitors wishing to try their hand at racing fast cars. For information call 038.421.628, or 038.424.232, or fax 038.42 1.555.

Open daily 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on the north end of Sukhumvit Highway at kilometer 143.

 

ELEFHANT VILLAGE is a popular tourist spot for Thais and foreigners alike. Daily performances by elephants and wild elephant round-up shows are held at 2.30 p.m. Elephant Jungle rides are also available. For information call 038,428.645-6, or 038.428.516.

 

PATTAYA WATER PARK, TOWER AND RESORT is off Thappraya Road, at the south end of Jomtien Beach covering an area around 32 acres, Pattaya Park offers an amusement park a Jacuzzi and a gigantic slide. It is an ideal venue for family relaxation. For information call 038,251.201-8.

 

THE MILLION YEARS STONE PARK & CROCODILE FARM is another popular tourist attraction. Covering an area of almost 100 rai, the park comprises rock gardens and a botanical area of rare plants, and is beautifully landscaped interesting sights include fossilized plants over a million years old, Thai-style bonsai trees which are over 200 year old Thai bonsai, crocodile pools, and a collection of rare animals such as albino bears. Elephants, horses, crocodile round-ups and magic and animal performances are also major attractions.

For information call 038249.347- 9.

Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Shows are at 11 a.m., 2:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

 

YELLOW SUBMARINE takes you to the under water world with the Yellow Submarine. The first submarine in Pattaya.

Book tickets at Bali Hai Pier south of Walking Street.

Open: Daily from 8.00 am to 7:00 pm

Cost: Thai Adult: 990 baht Non-Thai Adult 1.800 baht

Children: 740 baht Children: 1,350 baht Contact: 038.415.181

 

MINITURE RACE TRACK is at the Pattaya Kart Speedway on Thepprasit Road. It has allotted tracks for professional and amateur drivers. Contact 038.422.044

 

LAKELAND WATER CABLE SKI is another venue for amusement and recreational sport that Pattaya has to offer. It comprises an enormous freshwater lake of 27 rai in area with cable skis. This sport is becoming very popular.

Contact 038- 232690-2 for more information.

 

THE BOTTLE ART MUSEUM consists of a collection of more than 300 works of art, which are contained in glass bottles in the form of well-known icons such as churches, temples, palaces, and ships both Thai and foreign. These creations result from the tireless efforts of Dutch sculptor. Mr Peter Bedelais who crafted the various intricate parts and assembled them in glass bottles of different shapes.

For information call 038.422.957

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Located on the east side of Sukhumvit Road between Pattaya Tai and Pattaya Klang.

 

RIPLEY’S BELIEVE IT OR NOT MUSEUM is a display of Mr. Ripley’s collection of curious objects from around the world. Some of them are the actual items, while others are replicas.

These extraordinary objects are divided into more than 250 categories such as optical illusions, peculiar lifestyles of unusual people, and devices of human torture from ancient times, etc.

For information call 038.7 10.294-8.

Open daily from 10a.m. to midnight.

Located in the Royal Garden Plaza on Second Road.

 

THE SANCTURY OF TRUTH in Naklua is a beautiful creation of philosophy and religious thought that is communicated through a work of art.

On the seashore of Rachwet Cape is the construction called “The Sanctuary of Truth.” It is an imposing structure reaching into the sky amid modem buildings. It proudly shows the knowledge of ancient Thai art by present-day artists.

For more information, call 038.225.407, or 038.367.229.

 

TIFFANY’S SHOW is Southeast Asia’s first truly transvestite cabaret show in operation for nearly 30 years, Tiffany’s Show has become a tourist attraction in its own right. The format is cabaret style performed by men who look just like women.

Many people say these men are more beautiful than real women. This may be true, but what gives them away is the fact that they are perfectly feminine, and no woman is THAT feminine! Big numbers, big dresses, big hair! The 1,000-seat capacity theatre has the most modem light and sound stage equipment for more than 100 professional performers. This is a huge show, very well done, and well worth a visit. Open: Daily Show Times: 1st: 6.00 pm. 2nd: 7.30 pm. 3rd: 9.00 pm

Cost: VIP 800 baht Deluxe 700 baht ( Thai discount 50%)

Location: 464 Moo 9, Pattaya Second Road near Pattaya Nua Call 038.421.711.

 

THREE KINGDOMS THEME PARK is a testament of the piety that six children have for their father Mr. Kiarti Srifuengfung, a successful Chinese-Thai businessman. His last wish was for a memorial to be built that would allow others to understand and appreciate aspects of Buddhism as well as Thai and Chinese culture and philosophy.

This also included his favorite Chinese epic “The Romance of The Three Kingdoms,” compiled by Luo Guan Zhong of the Ming Dynasty. It remains the greatest and best known Chinese classical novel. Features of the park include holy remains of the Lord Buddha, the Goddess of Mercy Kuen Yin, sculpted from white marble from China, Jiangxi figures depicting the main characters of the Three Kingdoms epic the world’s longest corridor of hand-painted tiles, and oil paintings portraying 16 scenes from the life of Kong Ming. For information call 038.421.428-29

 

UNDERWATER WORLD is a place where visitors are taken on a voyage to the bottom of the sea without even getting wet. Underwater World features 100 meter-long tunnels with acrylic windows. The tunnels are divided to 3 zones: the Coral Reef tank, the Shark and Ray tank, and the Shipwreck tank.

For information call 038.756.879.

 

ALANGKARN SHOW is a state-of- the-art theatre offering a “Moden Thai Multi-Dimension Show” with a combination of pyrotechnics, multi-colored laser shows, surround system, fabulous stage sets and costumes depicting dramatic events similar to FantaSea in Phuket.

Open Tuesday thru Sunday 8:45 pm -10.00 pm

Cost: Thai 600 Baht Non-Thai 1,000 Baht

Location: 5 km. south of Pattaya on Sukhumvit Road. Contact: 038.256.008

 

WAT YAN SANGWARARAM is a first class Royal Temple 15 kilometers south of Pattaya City. To get there, turn left from Sukhumvit Highway at kilometer 160.

There are the Phra Yanares Vihan and international pavilions representing several countries such as Switzerland that dot the grounds. There is also the Vihan Sien, a grand and exquisite showcase of Chinese architecture.

 

KHAO CHI CHAN features a sculptural image erected to honor His Majesty King Bhumibol on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of his ascension to the throne.

The image is a sitting figure called Pang Man Wichai and was copied from Phra Phuttawarachabopit which combines both Sukhothai and Lanna arts. The Image is 109 meters in height and 70 meters in width, and the throne is 21 meters in height.

The total height is 130 meters. The figure is named Phra Phuttarnaha Wachirauttamapat Satsada which means the Buddha who has brightness and sublimity like Mahawachira. There are many kinds of plants surrounding and huts for the visitors.

 

NONGNOOCH TROPICAL GARDEN is a tourist attraction amidst natural surroundings, covering an area of around I ,300 rai. Nongnooch Village has orchids and gardens with flowering plants, mangos, orchids, cacti, and other types of flora. Thai-style teakwood houses are available for rent. There is also a zoo and a Thai Cultural Center. There are shows of Thai performances, martial arts, folk sports, and performances by elephants. For information call 038.429.321, 038.422.958, 038.709.358-62, or Bangkok 02.252.1786.

 

SAIKAEW BEACH is a long white beach approximately 1,700 meters in length and is situated in the Chumpol Sattahip Naval School. The sand is very beautiful and the surrounding scenery is very natural. The beach is a protected tourist locale, and does not allow any private access to the beach. Visitors must travel around with a beach car service. The beach provides tents, rooms and bungalows, including water sports accessories. Kayaks are also available. For more information please contact the Chumpol Naval School at Tel. 038.436.187 ext. 2201-2.

 

DONG TAN BAY has a nice beach lined with a Palmyra trees curving along Sattahip Bay, starting from the Sattahip District to the Naval Operations Department. The beach is shaded, which is nice for relaxation and sailing. The Sattahip Naval Club is open to members, and to interested members of the public.

 

THE MOST SPECTACULAR OF PATTAYA’S UNDISCOVERED TREASURES

 

 

Just outside Pattaya is a repository of Buddhist iconography that few tourists get a chance to visit, yet it is a Must See if you want to gain a true impression of Thailand. It is composed of three unique venues:

1. Wat Yansangwararam

2. The Buddha Mountain

3. Viharnra Sien

 

Located off Sukhumvit Highway, 16 km. south of Pattaya, just before Nong Nooch Village. Turn left and continue 4 km. west until you reach "Wat Yansangwararam”

 

1. Wat Yansangwararam or Wat Yan, for short, was completed in 1976, to commemorate King Naresuan the Great (1590 - 1605) and King Tak Sin the Great (1767-1782). Both of whom helped liberate the kingdom of Siam from Burmese oppression. Wat Yan is also dedicated to the Supreme Patriarch, or head of the Thai monastic order, Somdej Phra Yanasangworn. Later, in1982, it became a Royal Wat under the King Bhumibol’s patronage who instituted a new development programme. Over 27 billion baht is reputed to have been spent building it.

 

Located on a 7-hilled plot of 366 rai (146 acres), this wat complex must be one of the most impressive Buddhist establishments in the world. Housed amongst floral splendour, with lakes, carp-filled ponds and other water features, there are a myriad of architectural styles including:

• a number of Buddhist wats

• a Khmer mandapa, containing a reproduction of the Lord Buddha’s footprint;

• a white, 40-metre tall chedi, housing relics of the Buddha and his disciples;

• a Swiss Chalet; and

• shrines of Indian and Japanese design;

• statues of King Rama VII and his wife, the Princess Mother;

• statues of 20 revered monks;

• wildlife preserves and breeding facilities;

• a school, and

• a hospital..

• Buddha Pada hill, accessed by 288 steps

 

2. Buddha Mountain", Khao Chee Chan, or "Phra Phuttha Maha Vachira Utta, or Mopas Sasada" as it also known, is a spectacular Buddha effigy of a seated Buddha of the Sukhothai-era. In fact, at 130 metres tall and 70 metres wide, it is the largest Buddha image in the world.

 

Phra Phuttha Maha Vachira Utta Mopas Sasada is actually an image inscribed onto the face of the mountain. Instigated by His Majesty King Bhumibol in 1976 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his accession, the King's 1996 Golden Jubilee, the image was carved, using laser technology, in two days, but it took several months more to inlay the image with gold leaf at a cost of approximately 150 million baht. Signs below the image indicate where you can view the image from its most advantageous perspective and also designate the homage paying area.

 

The park immediately below the Buddha image has been laid out with the intention of inducing a respectful atmosphere of mediation. It contains several meditational salas, shrines, a series of terraced pools in which lotuses, the Buddha’s favourite flower, raise their heads above the water, and ornamental gardens.

 

3. Viharnra Sien (‘Abode of the Gods’) or Anek Kusala Sala (‘Multipurpose Pavilion’).

 

Built in 1993 within the royal temple of Wat Yansangwararam, in honour of His Majesty the King, Viharnra, by the Chinese-Thai community, this site is a fascinating museum of cultural artefacts, objects d’arts, antiques, works of art and religious statues from all over China and Thailand. The 3 storey museum, next to a lake, is housed within a traditionally decorated pavilion which resembles a Chinese Palace.

 

The museum contains

• Buddha images and a series of paintings illustrating the Lord Buddha’s life.

• replicas of the famed X’ian terracotta warriors

• giant T’ai Chi symbols (yin-yangs)

• brass sculptures of Chinese gods

• a pair of huge granite Peking Lions.

• a white jade statue of Goddess of Mercy - Guan Yin

• ancient Chinese pottery,

• painted silk scrolls,

• multi-coloured dragons

• huge decorated vases and urns

• Thai National dress over the years,

• replicas of the royal barges of His Majesty the King

• carriages used by the Royal family across the ages

The museum is open from 8:00-17:00. Entry fee: 50 Baht

[eanto]

Very comprehensive.

[LaaMok]

30 minute flight over pattaya 5000 baht

[chuckrivera]

Found this posted somewhere before by another poster. Sorry if I dont give credit as I cant remember who posted it. I saved it in word format.

 

It was Shuggy.

[Mr Unix]

Uh... there are some great ideas. I think this will be enough for four days. Thanks guys!

[Grumpy]

+1 for the Tiffany's Show. It's amazing.

[Daveo]

A visit to Canterbury Tales Bookshop for one of the many Thailand/Pattaya stories such as Private Dancer by Stephen Leather, the most Popular Thailand book also signed by him.

 

They make great Souvineers

[lincslad]

I would do something more cultural like the Thais do. Stay in and watch those Thai soaps on tv.

[kimindm]

Gert him a 1/2 hour ball massage at Dream Team.

[Mr Unix]

A visit to Canterbury Tales Bookshop for one of the many Thailand/Pattaya stories such as Private Dancer by Stephen Leather, the most Popular Thailand book also signed by him.

 

They make great Souvineers

Dave, I've been to your place the last three days with my lt ladyboy tgf for some late breakfast. No offense: But this isn't something cultural or naughty.

 

Anyway... There's no need to look for other things now as he has dengue fever and must stay on Samui quite some time...

[warmn40s]

Have a meal at a real Thai BBQ.

There are a couple on Third Road - Northern end.

All you can eat Meat 180 baht each - beef/ chicken etc

All you can eat Seafood 200 baht each Prawns Squid, Fish etc,

Cheap beer as well.

They come with fresh veges and noodles that you also cook.

 

You cook yourself but best to take some TG's with you as they will cook for you -- and they love it!

[CaptainPugwash]

Think this sounds like a great day out - Wat Yansangwararam,The Buddha Mountain,Viharnra Sien. Superb information.I never drive in Thailand so would need transport. Does anyone know of a good taxi guy or driver that i could hire for the day to take us to these places? How much would you expect to pay for something like this, one days driving/use of car?