Thailand remains one of the most beautiful places to visit in Southeast Asia. The wide variety of tourist attractions, combined with easy visa requirements has ensured tourists throng to the place all throughout the year. Thailand visa application centers have sprung up everywhere, so checking out the requirements of the place is an easy task.
From Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand seems to be teeming with tourists all year round. Pattaya, another popular tourist spot also witnesses an influx of tourists all year round.
Most Exciting Places to Visit in Pattaya that are Not Bars
1.Party at Walking Street
The Walking Street is one of the places in Pattaya that is frequently listed in the ‘must-see’ tourist destinations. The street comes to light in the evenings, as dimly lit bars and nightclubs are filled with tourists. The Walking Street has so many entertainment options that you will be spoiled for choice.
The Walking Street is also home to numerous live music bars. At the center of the road is the famous Walking Street Tree, which is teeming with ladyboy bars. Overall, I highly recommend visiting the Walking Street for a night full of fun and merriment.
Tip: As you would do in your country, never drive after drinking. There are motorbike taxis available at the Walking Street till the wee hours of the night.
2.Spend Quality Time at Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden
While Pattaya has gained popularity around for being a place for revelry and merriment, it is surprising that few people know that it home to a world-class botanical garden. If you are travelling with family and kids, I highly recommend spending a lazy, tranquil afternoon at the 2.4 square kilometer Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical Garden.
The garden offers the ideal setting for taking in the beauty of different flowers and trees. In addition the flowers and trees, the botanical garden is also known for its orchids and a special elephant talent show.
3.Sanctuary of Truth
The Sanctuary of Truth is an impressively designed architectural masterpiece. Made of teak wood, the sanctuary attracts tourists from all over Thailand and beyond. In addition to its mesmerizing beauty, there is something more holistic about this tourist attraction in Pattaya. As the name suggests, Sanctuary of Truth symbolizes the power of truth over other materialistic pursuits. Another striking aspect about Sanctuary of Truth is the wood is never treated chemically to prevent its degradation. The older parts are allowed to fade away and new parts are constructed – this is in symphony with the philosophical truth of impermanence and that the old has to eventually give way to the new.
4.Shop at Pattaya Floating Market
No trip to Pattaya is complete without a visit to the Pattaya Floating Market. Also known locally as the ‘Four Regions Floating Market’, the floating market gives you an exciting opportunity to shop for groceries and other stuff while you are floating in your small boat!
There are reports that entry to Pattaya Floating Market is now chargeable, and one has to shell out roughly 200 Baht. The market is not only about buying fruits and vegetables, but it also gives you a taste of the different cultures of Thailand. The reason why Pattaya Floating Market is known as Four Regions Floating Market is because it gives tourists a flavor of the four regions of Thailand – north, northeast, central, and south. You can buy wooden items as souvenirs for loved ones back home or you can simply enjoy the regional dancing displays that include Kung Fu and Sea Boxing.
5.Hike the Big Buddha Hill
Time for some calorie-burning and ensuring all the binging and eating out doesn’t add too much to your weight! Hiking the Big Buddha Hill is an experience in itself. Once you reach to the top, you will be amazed to the biggest Buddha statue in the region. The view is truly exhilarating and mesmerizing.
Atop the hill, you will also be able to get in panoramic views of the entire Pattaya city. Local people visit this temple for spiritual purposes, and the place has a special significance for people living in Pattaya and around.
6.Sunbathing at the Coral Island (Koh Larn)
The popularity of Pattaya as a beach destination has meant that the place can become too crowded for everyone’s comfort. During the peak seasons, Pattaya witnesses such a high influx of tourists that there is scampering for space at the beaches. If you are someone who loves his own personal space, I highly recommend spending some time at the Coral Island.
The Coral Island is located at a short ferry ride from the Walking Street. There are ample opportunities for snorkeling, banana riding, jet-skiing, and more. However, most tourists visiting this island prefer spending a quiet and relaxed time, away from the hustle and bustle of the beaches of Pattaya.
These were some of the most interesting things to do in Pattaya. As one of the party capitals in Southeast Asia, go-go bars and pubs will be enticing, but you can also remember that there’s so much more to explore in Pattaya. Let us know about your Pattaya travel experience.