Khao Chi Chan: Pattaya’s Golden Beacon of Peace

Rising 130 meters above Pattaya’s landscape, the awe-inspiring Khao Chi Chan (Buddha Mountain) is more than a landmark—it’s a testament to Thailand’s fusion of technology and spirituality. This colossal golden Buddha, laser-carved into a limestone cliff, draws visitors seeking both wonder and tranquility just outside the city’s bustling energy.

What Is Khao Chi Chan?

This man-made marvel features a 30m-tall x 70m-wide seated Buddha in the "Subduing Mara" pose, symbolizing enlightenment. Created in 1996 to honor King Bhumibol’s 50-year reign, the laser-carved image is gilded in gold leaf, radiating serenity over Pattaya’s bustling streets.

The Laser Buddha’s Creation

Origins as a Quarry
Buddha Mountain gained its distinctive shape through decades of mining - first for U-Tapao Airport during the Vietnam War, then through illegal limestone extraction. The site's destruction halted in 1976 by royal decree, leaving a dramatic cliff face that would later become sacred.

Laser-Carved Tribute
In 1996, engineers used laser technology to etch a 130-meter-tall Buddha image commemorating King Bhumibol's 50th reign. Inspired by Sukhothai-era art, the "Earth Touching" pose (symbolizing enlightenment) was digitally designed and cut into the rock over two nights, with workers leveraging darkness to enhance laser visibility.

Gilded Transformation
The laser grooves were painstakingly filled with gold leaf over several months, creating a shimmering visage visible for kilometers. The 150 million baht project transformed a war-scarred quarry into one of Thailand's most unique religious landmarks, blending ancient symbolism with space-age technology.

Why Khao Chi Chan Matters

More than a tourist attraction, this site embodies Thai Buddhist values—peace, harmony with nature, and reverence for the monarchy. Locals cherish its calming aura, offering respite from city chaos. The mountain also symbolizes national pride, merging technology and spirituality in a way uniquely Thai.

For visitors, it’s a chance to witness living devotion. Offerings of lotus blooms and incense at the base temple reveal how deeply Buddhism shapes daily life here.

Nearby Attractions

• Wat Yansangwararam: A sprawling temple complex with Khmer, Thai, and Chinese architectural influences.

• Viharn Sien: A Chinese museum-temple showcasing rare artifacts, just minutes away.

• Nong Nooch Garden: Pair your visit with these famed tropical gardens en route from Bangkok.

Plan Your Visit

• Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM daily | Fee: Free

• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds.

DID YOU KNOW?
You can get your Thai eSim card before you arrive…

Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices. You can grab your esim on the go before you arrive to Thailand to save expensive mistakes upon your arrival.