Joanna James
Situated less than 200 kilometres away from Thailand's capital Bangkok, Pattaya is a coastal city that attracts tourist from across the globe. Here 7 of the top tourist attraction in Pattaya.
The Nong Nooch Tropical Botanical, which stretches out for miles and miles has lots of things that the entire family can enjoy. Winding walkways lead to theme specific gardens such as gardens that are species- specific (e.g.: bonsai, tropical palms and succulent), a 17th-century French themed garden (topiary garden) and a European Renaissance themed garden.
The Jomtien Beach which stretches out for 6 kilometres is a good way to escape the bustling main city that is located 4 kilometres away. You can take refuge amongst the trees growing at the edge of the beach or sunbathe on its golden shores. Water sports enthusiasts can engage in a range of activities like kitesurfing, jet-skiing, windsurfing and parasailing. There are plenty of restaurants and café on this beach that offer fresh seafood and the local delicacies.
This huge wooden monument which is also known to be "the beauty of heaven recreated on Earth," is a good example of Thai architectural styles. Wooden carvings that are intricately decorated cover every vacant space of this structure which was constructed to pay tribute to ancient philosophies and religions. While visiting this sanctum you can also enjoy Thai boxing and cultural shows, horseback riding, elephant hiking or even a speedboat ride.
Koh Larn, which is also known as Koh Lan is an island which is 45-minute ferry ride or 30-minute speedboat ride from Pattaya. Things to do on this relatively peaceful island (compared to the tourist-packed Pattaya beach) include engaging in water sports such as banana boat rides, parasailing and underwater sea walking, watching monkey on the Nual Beach and renting a motorbike to explore the island.
The Four Regions Floating market or the Pattaya Floating Market is situated between AVANI Pattaya Resort & Spa and the Pattaya Dolphin World is the only one of its kind in Pattaya. The bustling market which is divided into different sections and sells goods from the four major areas of Thailand. While Crafts, arts, souvenirs and clothing are among the many items that can be found here, it's also a good place to indulge in some exotic local cuisine such as crickets, scorpions and crocodile meat. While you have to pay admission to see this floating market unlike most floating markets, renting a boat is a great way to explore the market.
The Ramayana Water Park which is advertised as "the best and biggest water park in Thailand," offers an exciting day of fun for tourists of all ages. The park offers 21 water-themed rides such as the freefall, aqua coasters, Python and the aqua loop which are more suited for teenagers and adults the park also offers attractions such as the aqua splash, aqua play and the river slide which are more suitable for kids. Daily activities like fish feeding, water polo, volleyball and Zumba add to making a trip to the Ramayana Waterpark a memorable experience.
The Wat Phra Yai or the Big Buddha is a statue made of gold of the Buddha looking relaxed and peaceful which is 18 meters in height. It lies on the top of the Pratamnak Hill, which is located south from Pattaya. Climb up the stairs which are decorated with Naga snakes made of gold on both sides to observe the statue more closely and also admire smaller Buddha statues that surrounding it. Locals visit the Wat to pray for happiness, good health and prosperity. Climbing to the summit of the hill will also give you a glimpse of a gorgeous view of the Pattaya city its bay.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
