Wat Nong Ao is a small but beautiful temple in the centre of Pattaya, Thailand. Wat Nong Ao is different from the bigger, more famous temples in the area because its shiny, gilded outside makes it look like it’s covered in gold. The temple is a peaceful break from the busy streets of Pattaya and gives visitors a real taste of Thai Buddhist culture.
History of Wat Nong Ao
Even though Wat Nong Ao doesn’t have the long or royal history of Pattaya’s bigger temples, it is still important to the people who live there. People in the area built it as a neighbourhood temple so they could pray and meditate there. The temple’s beautiful architecture and warm atmosphere have made it a hidden gem for visitors who want to see less well-known spiritual sites.
Location, Direction & Timings
Wat Nong Ao is in the middle of Pattaya, close to many of the city’s attractions. Tourists can easily stop by during a day of sightseeing because it is in a good spot. You can easily get to the temple from anywhere in Pattaya by car, taxi, or local songthaews. Wat Nong Ao is usually open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Things to Do in Wat Nong Ao
- The temple’s shiny outside makes it stand out from many other temples in the city.
- Go see the reclining Buddha statue, which stands for peace and knowledge.
- Visit the Ganesha shrine, which adds a spiritual and colourful touch to the temple grounds.
- Enjoy the calm and real atmosphere, which is often free of big groups of tourists.
- Be polite to the people who come to the temple to pray and take part in community events.
Tips Before You Visit the Park
- You should wear modest clothes. Before you go into the temple grounds, make sure your shoulders and knees are covered.
- The reclining Buddha and the Ganesha shrine are two of the most popular things to see.
- The best times to go are in the morning or late afternoon when the temple is less busy and the golden outside looks especially beautiful in natural light.
- Don’t make too much noise, and don’t bother people who are praying.
- You can take pictures, but you should always be polite and not take pictures while people are praying.
FAQs on Wat Nong Ao
Its shiny, gold-plated outside and not-too-crowded atmosphere make it stand out, giving visitors a more peaceful and real experience.
No, you don’t have to pay to get in, but donations to help with maintenance are welcome.
Yes, the temple has a reclining Buddha statue, which is one of its best features.
Wat Nong Ao is less busy than the main tourist temples, so it’s a quiet place to be even though it’s in the middle of everything.
You can explore the temple, admire the statues, and enjoy the atmosphere in about 20 to 30 minutes.