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Rising 105 metres into the sky and exquisitely carved entirely out of teak wood, The Sanctuary of Truth is a gigantic woodenconstruction that's one of a kind in the world. A strange fusion of religion, philosophy, art and culture, it's neither a temple, nor palace 'even though it looks a bit like a hybrid of both. Best described as a monument to Thai craftsmanship, and a place to reflect, its awe-inspiring wooden sculptures and cravings pays homage to and is a reflection of the “Ancient Vision of Earth', “Ancient Knowledge'and “Eastern Philosophy'. It's also the only place in Thailand where you can get up close and personal with two delightful and very playful dolphins…
It's easy to get lost in thought wandering through the Sanctuary of Truth's impressive structure and admiring the equally impressive and ornate carvings that adorn every square inch of the building inside and out. The brochure speaks of “understanding ancient life', “life relationship with the universe'and “common goals of life towards utopia', all of which goes over the heads of visitors (and mine!). But the eerie silence inside is evidence of the admiration visitors cannot help to have for the ten years and hundreds of thousands man hours that have gone into the project. And the guide informed me that it's ongoing, that it will never be fully completed…
Serious thoughts to ponder
Also from the brochure: “From the Cold War era until today, the world has been under the influence of Western civilization, accentuated by materialism and devotion to advanced technology. Many natural areas have been degraded, and men have drifted away from their old values in such a way that morality and spiritual contentment have become irrelevant to many people. Their attempts to control nature have transformed many people into egotistical individuals who are out to destroy one another through incessant wars and economic plundering…'Some serious thoughts to ponder.
The Sanctuary of Truth was conceived from the vision that human civilization has been achieved and nurtured by religious and philosophical truth 'created, in other words, out of goodness drawn from religion, philosophy and art. Through elaborate carvings and sculptures, it pays tribute to the seven creators “man cannot be born and exist without': Heaven, Earth, Father, Mother, Moon, Sun and Stars. Deeply embedded into all of this are ancient Buddhist, Hindu, Brahman and other spiritual and philosophical elements.
Fun and games with dolphins
It's not all about serious contemplation and intricate carvings though. The sprawling estate is set alongside an exclusive stretch of coastline. Visitors are transported in a horse carriage from the entrance to a peaceful world a few minutes away that is very far removed from Pattaya's otherwise high energy atmosphere. A restaurant and outdoor seating area overlooks a small saltwater and man-made lagoon, the playground of two well-trained dolphins that put up entertaining shows for visitors. Kids and grown-ups alike delight in touching these marvellous creatures, and to have their photographs taken with. In the restaurant there's also traditional Thai dancing and music, and close by visitors can watch wooden carvers at work 'or even try their own hand at carving.
Other activities offered are horse-riding and speed boat trips to appreciate the building from the best vantage point. Perhaps not everyone's cup of tea, the Sanctuary of Truth overall offers an experience that's quite different from Pattaya's other attractions. It's certainly a one-of-a-kind place, and nowhere else in Thailand would you be able to appreciate such magnificent carvings and sculptures, or get in such close contact with dolphins.
Admission and how to find it:
From North Pattaya Road, turn right into Naklua Road at the circle before you get to Pattaya Beach Road. Turn left into Naklua Soi 12, and travel right towards the end. Admission is 500 baht for adults and 250 baht for children, and includes the horse carriage ride and dolphin show. Tour guides are free, friendly and very knowledgeable (it's customary to give them a tip though).
Telephone: +66 (0)38 36 7229
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