Buddha Mountain, or Wat Khao Chi Chan, is one of Pattaya’s most famous religious sites. The site has the largest carved Buddha statue in the world, which is 130 meters tall and 70 meters wide. It was carved into a limestone cliff with lasers and filled with gold. The picture shows the Buddha in the act of defeating Mara, and it is called Maha Vajira Uttamobhassada, which means “the great prophet who brings enlightenment.” Buddha Mountain is a peaceful place to get away from it all. Visitors can think, do fun things, or just admire the beautiful monument. It is surrounded by calm gardens, ponds, and natural scenery.
History of Wat Khao Chi Chan
The picture was made in 1996 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s coronation. The outline of the Buddha was carved into the limestone hill with lasers and then filled with gold leaf. The Thai Royal Navy and artisans worked together on the project, which stood for peace, enlightenment, and loyalty to the monarchy.
The Siri Charoenwat Forest Plantation Project, which started in 1992 to honour Queen Sirikit’s 60th birthday, is responsible for the lush green plants around the area. This project turned an area that used to be empty into a thriving landscape full of teak, acacia, Siamese rosewood, fruit trees, and other plants. Now, the place is both a natural attraction and a spiritual one.
Location, Direction, Timings
It is close to other popular tourist spots like Wat Yansangwararam, Viharn Sien Chinese Temple, Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, and Silverlake Vineyard, making it a great place to stop on a day trip. The site is about 20 kilometres south of Pattaya City. You can get there by car, taxi, or local songthaews. Buddha Mountain is open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to go are early in the morning or late in the afternoon. You don’t have to pay to get in, but donations are welcome.
Things to Do in Wat Khao Chi Chan
- Admire the Golden Buddha Image: Look at the world’s biggest carved Buddha, which glows in the sun.
- Photography: Get a picture of the golden outline against the limestone cliff and the gardens around it, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Take a walk through the Gardens: Enjoy peaceful walks around the well-kept grounds that are home to native trees, flowers, and ponds.
- Meditation and Reflection: Take some time to be quiet, meditate, or pray in this peaceful place.
Tips before Visiting the Temple
- Don’t wear shorts or revealing clothes. Instead, wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
- The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when it’s cooler and the light is better for taking pictures.
- Buddhists consider this place sacred, so keep noise to a minimum. Don’t climb on rocks or in places that are off-limits.
- Drink plenty of water, especially in the middle of the day when it’s hot.
- Since entry is free, think about giving money to help keep the site up.
FAQs on Wat Khao Chi Chan
It has the world’s biggest Buddha statue, which was laser-carved into a limestone cliff and decorated with gold to honour King Bhumibol’s Golden Jubilee.
No, it’s free to get in. People are still encouraged to give money to help with maintenance, though.
The statue is 130 meters tall and 70 meters wide, making it the biggest carved Buddha in the world.
Yes, Wat Yansangwararam, Viharn Sien, Silverlake Vineyard, and Nong Nooch Tropical Garden are all close by.
Yes, photography is allowed, but visitors should not pose in ways that are disruptive or climb in areas that are off-limits.
