Wat Chaimongkol Royal Monastery
A serene 10-acre Buddhist monastery founded in 1937, home to 186 monks, offering a peaceful escape and cultural immersion.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See all buildings before closing
Wat Chaimongkol Royal Monastery
Best Time
See all buildings before closing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 10-acre Buddhist monastery founded in 1937, home to 186 monks, offering a peaceful escape and cultural immersion.
"This temple is my favourite place in Pattaya, my gateway to heaven."
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the monks and sacred space. :pray:
Arrive Early
To see everything, visit before 3:30 PM as some buildings close by 4 PM. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Main Temple Sanctuary
Central complex
Experience the spiritual heart of the monastery, a place of deep peace and cultural significance.
Monastic Living Quarters
Throughout the grounds
Observe the daily life of 186 Buddhist monks, including 45 young novices.
Temple Architecture
Various structures
Admire the beautiful and culturally rich temple structures that adorn the grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the monks and sacred space. :pray:
Arrive Early
To see everything, visit before 3:30 PM as some buildings close by 4 PM. :clock:
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
No cost to enter, but donations support the monks and temple. :moneybag:
Quiet & Relaxing
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance, perfect for quiet contemplation and photos. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the monks and sacred space. :pray:
Arrive Early
To see everything, visit before 3:30 PM as some buildings close by 4 PM. :clock:
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
No cost to enter, but donations support the monks and temple. :moneybag:
Quiet & Relaxing
Enjoy the peaceful ambiance, perfect for quiet contemplation and photos. :camerawithflash:
Cafe On-site
Grab a cheap drink or snack at the cafe located within the temple grounds. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Wat Chaimongkol Royal Monastery to be a surprisingly peaceful and relaxing sanctuary in Pattaya, offering beautiful temple structures and a glimpse into monastic life. While some note potential accessibility issues with stairs and occasional parking obstructions, the free entry and serene atmosphere make it a highly recommended cultural experience for all.
"It's the Royal Monastery but so peaceful and relaxing. I often walk into the complex and take pics which I post on my Facebook.
I live here in Jomtien Pattaya so it's a good place to just chill out( as the youngsters say) I can't manage the steps into the main temple anymore
There is no cost to enter"
Keith Kendell
"It was a beautiful temple to visit 🙏🏼❤️ Im so grateful to have visit the place I did arrive late 330- and at 4pm it was closing some building so I wasn’t able to see everything but i was still satisfied with all I seen"
dbory77
"This temple is my favourite place in Pattaya The temple is home to 186 Buddhist monks, including 45 young Buddhist monks. I organise lunch for this temple everytime I visit Pattaya. This temple is my gateway to heaven. For some reason I was drawn to this temple, and I love this place."
Ash Ko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Chaimongkol Royal Monastery is conveniently located adjacent to the main road in Pattaya, making it very easy to visit. You can reach it by taxi, songthaew, or private vehicle.
Yes, there is parking available. However, some visitors have noted that cars and bikes can sometimes be parked in front of the temples, which can detract from the view.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no cost to enter Wat Chaimongkol Royal Monastery. It is a place open to all visitors.
While specific hours aren't always advertised, visitors have noted that some buildings may start closing around 4 PM, so it's best to arrive earlier in the day to explore the entire complex.
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. You can visit anytime during their operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It is important to dress modestly out of respect for the monks and the sacred nature of the temple. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged, as many visitors find the temple structures beautiful and worth capturing.
Some visitors have mentioned difficulty with the steps into the main temple, so it's worth being aware of potential accessibility challenges for those with mobility concerns.
The monastery is described as a very peaceful and relaxing place, offering a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of Pattaya.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located within the temple grounds that sells drinks at affordable prices.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to consume food and drinks purchased on-site or outside the main temple areas to maintain the sanctity of the place.
📸 📸 Photography
The beautiful temple architecture and the serene grounds offer numerous photo opportunities. Visitors often capture the intricate details of the structures and the peaceful monastic life.
While photography is generally permitted, it's always best to be discreet and respectful when photographing individuals, especially monks. Avoid intrusive behavior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting earlier in the day to ensure you can see all the accessible areas before closing. The peaceful atmosphere might also be a good way to introduce children to a different cultural and spiritual environment. There's also a cafe on-site for a quick refreshment break.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers Seeking Peace
Take your time to wander through the grounds, admire the architecture, and observe the monastic life from a respectful distance. The free entry makes it an accessible option, and the on-site cafe offers a convenient spot to relax. Many solo visitors find this monastery to be a deeply satisfying and calming experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Heart of Pattaya
This monastery is a place of deep cultural significance and offers a serene environment for contemplation. The beautiful temple structures are a testament to Thai Buddhist architecture, and the grounds themselves are designed for tranquility. It's a place where one can feel a sense of calm and connection, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking a moment of peace.
Experiencing Monastic Life
Some visitors have expressed a deep personal connection to the temple, with one reviewer stating it's their 'gateway to heaven' and that they organize lunch for the monks during their visits. This highlights the personal impact the monastery can have. It's a place that draws people in, offering a sense of spiritual fulfillment and a chance to contribute to the well-being of the monastic community through donations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit