Khao Chi Chan is a limestone cliff carrying a colossal image of the Buddha on its face, visible from kilometres away and the instantly recognisable landmark of southern Chonburi. The plaza in front is open and landscaped, so the figure can be seen whole with nothing in the way.
How it was made
The image was created to honour the Golden Jubilee of King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great. The method was to set the lines out on the cliff with lasers, then inlay gold mosaic tile along them — a technique that had not been used at this scale before.
The result holds its proportions when read from the ground far below, where conventional relief carving tends to distort when seen from underneath.
Visiting
The spot that frames the whole figure is a fair way back from the cliff; walking out into the plaza gives a fuller picture than standing close.
- Free entry, with parking and shops on site
- Come early or late — the plaza is open ground and very hot in the middle of the day
- It is a sacred site: dress modestly and keep the noise down
- Close to Nongnooch Garden, and the two make a comfortable half-day