Overview

The seaside resort of Pattaya is located on the Eastern Gulf Coast of Thailand. The sleepy fishing town was first discovered in 1959, when some US army personnel fighting in the Vietnam War came here for rest. Tourism gradually picked up and by the 1980s a large number of resorts developed along its beaches. Today this resort town attracts more than five million visitors to its shores every year. The main action is concentrated along the Pattaya beach but beyond the beach, there are many attractions that you can visit and explore. Listed below are just some of them.

Wat Khao Phra Yai

This small temple complex is situated high above the town to the south, on a steep hill. From here you can enjoy the scenic vistas. The temple houses a 10 meter gold Buddha statue serenely surveying the scenic surroundings.

Alangkarn

This high-tech entertainment complex is uniquely Thai and features the Thai Extravaganza Show with laser and lighting effects. The show is includes famous historical events, elephant battles, and Thai dancing. There is also a Thai restaurant within the complex which serves dinner before the show. Visitors can also shop for local products in the shopping complex.

Ripley’s Believe or Not

Located on the 3rd floor of Royal Garden Plaza Building in Central Pattaya, Ripley’s Believe it or not features unusual exhibits from around the world including puzzling facts, curios, and illusions, and more that prove that fact is stranger than fiction. You can also enjoy the hi-tech simulator ride in the moving theatre and hi-tech laser game.

Pattaya Elephant Village

The Pattaya Elephant Village is a not-for-profit sanctuary which was set up to save former working elephants. The village offers treks and a 90-minutes show to raise funds the running of the sanctuary. While there, you can also witness elephant-training techniques.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

The Nong Nooch Tropical Garden, spread across a 202-hectare (500-acre), comprises a botanical garden and elephant park located about 18km (11 miles) outside Phuket town. Apart from the greenery and the flora, you can also witness shows that are held here regularly. These shows feature elephants performing alongside dancers, musicians, and other acts. Other activities include cultural performances, music, Thai boxing, and also audience participation.

Sri Racha County

Sri Racha County is a tiger zoo located north of Pattaya City. You can hold, feed and take photos with baby tigers. Besides, you can also pet and feed camels and see deer, elephants, donkey and especially the tiger cubs. A crocodile show is also held here.

Accommodation in Pattaya

Tourism is a flourishing industry and many of the visitors come here for an extended holiday. While there are several hotels available, private Pattaya villas are in great demand by the people traveling with their families or friends and are looking to enjoy a slice of tropical life away from the crowds.