The Sanctuary of Truth is a timber building on the shore at Na Kluea, over 100 metres tall and carved across every surface. What sets it apart from anything else in Pattaya is how it is put together — joined with wooden pegs and tenons, without iron nails, in the manner of traditional carpentry.

Unfinished, and that is part of it

Construction has run for decades and is still going, so visitors usually find scaffolding up and carvers at work — a chance to watch the woodwork being made rather than only the finished result.

Because of that, entry comes with safety conditions, including hard hats in some areas. Follow what the staff tell you.

What to look at

• The carving, which sets out Thai, Chinese, Khmer and Indian philosophy and belief on separate faces of the building
• The shoreline angle that frames the whole structure with the sea behind it
• On-site activities such as performances and boat rides, charged separately

Planning

• Allow two to three hours — this is not a ten-minute photo stop
• Dress modestly; cover-ups are provided at the entrance if needed
• Mornings are cooler and quieter than afternoons
• Check admission and activity times before you travel