Sanctuary
of Truth, a monumental structure near Pattaya, ia a colossal carved
wooden pavilion displaying rich architectural heritage of Thailand.
Showcasing the fine points of ancient Thai wisdom, this sacred
architecture is carved in Ayutthaya style. Every inch of the structure
is covered with wooden carved structure.
What Special About It
Sanctuary of Truth is colossal wooden building, perhaps the largest in
the world. It is over 100 metre in height and 100 metre in breadth. It
is as high as a twenty storey building. Wooden carving showcase several
eastern cultures.
Wood Carvings
The temple is minutely adorned with wood carvings showcasing the four
major philosophical and artistic influences that can be seen in
Thailand: Hindu, Khmer, Chinese and Thai. As a matter of fact, the
entire building is constructed of wood.
Different
Wings, Different Styles
The structure of the Sanctuary of Truth can be segregated into four
wings each of which has its own style. If one is bedecked with Chinese
motifs, another resembles the monumental architecture of Angkor Wat.
Wing having the main entrance is typically Thai. Exterior of the
building is now complete. However, work in the interior is still going
on.
Location
The grand structure is located set on a rocky point of the coast just
north of Pattaya, in Naklua.
How to Reach
Songtaews (small pickup trucks) regularly ply between Pattaya and
Naklua. However, you have to leave songtaew at the end of Naklua Soi 12
and then have a long walk to the temple. If you have rented a car or
motorbike, your journey to the temple would be much more comfortable.
Coming into Being
Credit of building this grand structure goes to a Thai billionaire
famous as Khun Lek. He was the person who conceptualized Ancient City
near Bangkok. After twenty years, his other mega project was 'the
Sanctuary of Truth', the structure resembling a temple near Pattaya.
Horse Ride
Horse or buggy ride from the car park to the top of the hill is very
interesting. If you are accustomed of traveling in a car, you would find
riding a car or buggey intriguing.