Picture courtesy of Wikipedia

 

In a monumental achievement for Pattaya, the Sanctuary of Truth has been crowned the world's largest wooden museum by the World Book of Records in London. A momentous certificate presentation was held at the Sanctuary on 12th May 2025, marking a new chapter in the museum's storied history.

 

The ceremony saw Mr. Worakorn Viriyapan, Vice President of the Sanctuary of Truth Museum, extend a warm welcome to Dr. Apinita Chaichana of the World Book of Records, alongside her team.

 

Additionally, the event was graced by Mr. Pichan Viriyapan, the founder and chairman, and museum staff, all celebrating the landmark recognition.

 

Mr. Worakorn expressed overwhelming pride and joy, highlighting that this feat reflects the relentless dedication of the Sanctuary’s personnel. “Being recognised by the World Book of Records reinforces our mission to present a living museum of art and cultural philosophies,” he stated.

 

This accolade spotlights the Sanctuary as a true cultural jewel of Pattaya, enchanting visitors from around the globe.

 

Founded on 31st August 1981 by visionaries Mr. Lek and Mrs. Praphai Viriyapan, the Sanctuary of Truth embodies their dream of merging Eastern wisdom with intricate artistry.

 

The masterpiece is a wooden edifice, intricately carved, celebrating Thai heritage. It's a testament to the founders' mission to preserve Thai culture while showcasing it to the world.

 

Visitors worldwide are captivated by the Sanctuary's stunning craftsmanship and cultural essence. This world record title strengthens its allure as an essential destination, ensuring that Pattaya remains a beacon of cultural heritage.

 

This newly acclaimed status underscores the Sanctuary's role in promoting the rich artistic and spiritual heritages of Thailand, securing its place on the global map.

 

The Sanctuary of Truth now stands not only as a symbol of Pattaya's historical richness but also as a proud representation of Thailand's artistic grandeur and cultural glory.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Pattaya News 2025-05-13

 

 

Any pics of the certificate ?

 

WBR has not updated the website yet.

 

Biggest wooden tourist attraction, big deal

Have they stopped using the dual pricing system yet?

I've lived in Pattaya for 25 years and I wouldn't have a clue where it is and really I don't care. I've been told it's frequented by Thai politicians who are noted for their truth, especially the likes of Teflon Tony.

3 minutes ago, Mason45 said:

I've lived in Pattaya for 25 years and I wouldn't have a clue where it is and really I don't care. I've been told it's frequented by Thai politicians who are noted for their truth, especially the likes of Teflon Tony.

That is a shame really. It was a little overpriced I thought, but definitely worthy of a visit. Really makes the idea that Pattaya is a one trick pony nonsense. 

1 hour ago, jacko45k said:

That is a shame really. It was a little overpriced I thought, but definitely worthy of a visit. Really makes the idea that Pattaya is a one trick pony nonsense. 

I visited in around 2016, don’t remember the price but thought it was worth while . The detail in the carving is very impressive.

8 hours ago, jacko45k said:

Have they stopped using the dual pricing system yet?

No

Construction , hammering banging, all day long, it's never is quiet

Have taken visitors there.

what a total waste of time.

And don't forget to keep your hard hat on. 

and silly rules about shorts and skirts , like its a temple .

P.O.S. tourist trap.

But I'm sure the original builders never meant it to be like it is now.

Is it even finished yet?

This place is not worth the time and money.   

Just now, TedG said:

This place is not worth the time and money.   

 

Yes it is.

7 hours ago, Andrew Dwyer said:

I visited in around 2016, don’t remember the price but thought it was worth while . The detail in the carving is very impressive.

For anyone thinking of visiting, shield your young children's eyes from intricate carvings such as these😋:

 

7 hours ago, TedG said:

This place is not worth the time and money.   

 

It definitely is. Yeah it's not something super-impressive AF like I don't know Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

 

But this place that's called "Sanctuary of Truth" in a city where old fat balding men are called sexy, is a hell of an impressive temple 😆👍

But this is not news. It has been telling us this for years if not decades. It's a BRILLIANT place to visit. Absolutely stunning. People who criticise it are just bitter old men who have been Thailand too long but can't get out.

17 hours ago, proton said:

Biggest wooden tourist attraction, big deal

You sound a tad bitter. LOL If you were correct that initself would be remarkable 

7 hours ago, jcmj said:

Is it even finished yet?

It won't ever be finished.  That's the beauty of it. It employs dozens of young carvers and trains them.

7 hours ago, quake said:

Construction , hammering banging, all day long, it's never is quiet

Have taken visitors there.

what a total waste of time.

And don't forget to keep your hard hat on. 

and silly rules about shorts and skirts , like its a temple .

P.O.S. tourist trap.

But I'm sure the original builders never meant it to be like it is now.

Rubbish. Nonsense.  Why are you so bitter? It's a really interesting place. Unique. Extraordinary I recommend to my all my friends and family who come to visit me in Pattaya 

16 hours ago, jacko45k said:

That is a shame really. It was a little overpriced I thought, but definitely worthy of a visit. Really makes the idea that Pattaya is a one trick pony nonsense. 

Absolutely correct. People who denigrate the SOT are bitter old men who are stuck in Thailand and can't afford the entrance price.

16 hours ago, jacko45k said:

Have they stopped using the dual pricing system yet?

No. We don't care. We can afford to pay to see the one of the wonders of the world, hand carved, often by Thai teenagers. If you can't afford to come to Thailand please stop whining about the pricing system!

16 hours ago, Mason45 said:

I've lived in Pattaya for 25 years and I wouldn't have a clue where it is and really I don't care. I've been told it's frequented by Thai politicians who are noted for their truth, especially the likes of Teflon Tony.

It's easy to see from the top of any high building.  But you don't really see it until you bother to go there and be amazed.

24 minutes ago, ViajeroLA said:

 

It definitely is. Yeah it's not something super-impressive AF like I don't know Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

 

But this place that's called "Sanctuary of Truth" in a city where old fat balding men are called sexy, is a hell of an impressive temple 😆👍

Is it a "Temple" its called: "The Sanctuary of Truth"

18 minutes ago, Magictoad said:

You sound a tad bitter. LOL If you were correct that initself would be remarkable 

 

Facts are not bitter, it's a tourist attraction, not a real temple

18 minutes ago, proton said:

 

Facts are not bitter, it's a tourist attraction, not a real temple

 

It is a museum.

 

There, does that make you feel better about it.

 

 

It certainly is worth a visit, especially if you have a Pattaya lady with you.

26 minutes ago, Magictoad said:

No. We don't care. We can afford to pay to see the one of the wonders of the world, hand carved, often by Thai teenagers. If you can't afford to come to Thailand please stop whining about the pricing system!

 

 

Goodness, you have extensive knowledge, where were you before 8th April? 😉..

 

Your comments are spot on though, welcome back.

1 hour ago, hotandsticky said:

 

It is a museum.

 

There, does that make you feel better about it.

 

 

It certainly is worth a visit, especially if you have a Pattaya lady with you.

 

Tourist trap and nothing to do with truth

28 minutes ago, proton said:

 

Tourist trap and nothing to do with truth

 

Don't go. 

 

Far from a tourist trap, sensible pricing and a good couple of hours out. 

16 hours ago, hotchilli said:

No

I await with bated breath.....might visit Nong Nooch!

8 hours ago, Magictoad said:

No. We don't care. We can afford to pay to see the one of the wonders of the world, hand carved, often by Thai teenagers. If you can't afford to come to Thailand please stop whining about the pricing system!

Who is 'we', the proverbial mouse in your pocket?

I do care. I am not a tourist here and dislike this rather discriminatory practice. The extra cost for non-Thais is sometimes a bit too much.