The Sanctuary of Truth
 View of the sanctuary from the upper viewpoint. |
Monumental projects in Thailand are almost always community-based, usually undertaken by temples. Rarely are they undertaken by a single individual, other than the king. One of the few exceptions to this rule was the eccentric billionaire generally known as "Khun Lek." First, he conceived the Ancient City as a place for Bangkok residents to see the rich architectural heritage of Thailand. Then, about 20 years ago he started construction on a temple-like structure near Pattaya, which he christened "the Sanctuary of Truth."
 Part of the team of 250 woodworkers carving away on the sanctuary. |
Construction was only begun after many years of research by Khun Lek himself. Although the overall shape roughly follows traditional Thai architecture, the temple is richly detailed with wood carvings depicting the four major philosophical and artistic influences that can be seen in Thailand: Hindu, Khmer, Chinese and Thai. In fact, the building is being constructed entirely of wood. Thats the main reason it is taking so long. A team of 250 woodcarvers are at work on the sanctuary at any given time, yet construction is not expected to be completed for another five years.
Each of the cruciform-plan building's four wings reflects a different one of the four styles. One wing recalls the monumental architecture of Angkor Wat, while another is decorated with Chinese motifs. The wing forming the main entrance is stylistically Thai. Much of the exterior appears complete, although some parts now have to be repaired due to their long exposure to the elements. Most of the new work being done now is on the interior. The inside is being covered in the same rich carvings as the outside. We hope they put some lights in when its done, otherwise it will be hard to make out the details.
 Overall view of the "Khmer" wing of the sanctuary. |
Sadly, Khun Lek passed away a few years ago, so he will never see the sanctuary completed. But the work goes on according to his meticulous plan.
Although incomplete, the building site is open to visitors who want to view the work in progress. The 500 Baht (about US$12) is a bit steep, but that appears to be intended to keep the number of visitors low so that they do not interfere with the construction. You do get a personal guide to take you through the complex, although they are generally not well versed in English. Hard hats are provided to protect you when inside the building.
 View of the sanctuary from the sea wall surrounding the complex. |
The Sanctuary of Truth (in Thai Prasat Sut Ja-Tum) is dramatically set on a rocky point of the coast just north of Pattaya, in the small town of Naklua. Its near the end of Naklua Soi 12. You could easily get a songtaew (a small pickup truck turned into a sort of taxi-bus) from Pattaya, as Pattaya 2 Road becomes the "main" street of Naklua. However, its a long walk from the mouth of the soi to the temple. You would best be advised to rent a car or motorcycle to make your way to this place from Pattaya.
The "master plan" for the sanctuary complex calls for additional small buildings and even guest houses to be built after the main sanctuary is completed. It will then probably find a place in the guidebooks. Until then, this is one of the least known attractions in Thailand.
Photo Gallery
For more photographs of this remarkable structure, visit our Photo Gallery.
