Sawadika! A pleasant, smiling flight attendant greets with folded hands. Welcome! This word will become a part of your dictionary by the time you leave Pattaya. This coastal city attracts visitors from around the world for its laidback and relaxing atmosphere.
Where
Pattaya lies on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand. Located 165 km east of the capital, Bangkok, Pattaya’s beaches are part of South China Sea. The Chao Phraya is one of the largest rivers in this region.
How to get there
Bangkok is very well connected by air. There are daily flights to Bangkok from all major airports in the world. Several Thai airlines, including Thai Air and Bangkok Airways operate daily flights. It takes two hours by road to reach Pattaya. The drive is comfortable and relaxing.
Weather
Pattaya enjoys tropic climate with average temperature of 29 degrees Celsius, although the months between February and May might see the mercury touch an average of 34. The period from November to February is ideal to visit Pattaya. This is the winter season and the city is flooded with tourists.
Must See Must Do
Pattaya Gems Factory
The gems factory is touted to be the biggest jewellery store in the world. You will be stunned by the array of precious stones and metals. The highlight of the visit is the “Dark Ride”, a small tour that gives you a glimpse of how precious metals and stones originate. The audio and visual effects and imagery are literally bedazzling.
The tour ends at the jewellery gallery and store. You will find every conceivable shape, size and stones on display. The attendants are knowledgeable and friendly. You can purchase off-the-shelf or place an order. Each purchase comes with a guarantee certificate.
Entry is free and you will be served complimentary coffee/tea/drinks. The gems gallery is an excellent place to pick up gifts for friends and family and of course for li’l ol’ you. Pearl and jade pieces are great buys. And, hone your bargaining skills – it will help you tremendously!
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum
We have seen hundreds of episodes on TV. But, this is nothing like you have seen. The franchise in Pattaya has more than 300 amazing attractions spread across 10 galleries. Look for the Titanic which has been made with 1 million matchsticks. Don’t miss the ‘Thrill Ride’ at the Ripley’s Motion Master Theatre. It is sheer horror and adventure for both kids and adults.
The museum is open between 11 am and 9pm. Keep about 2-3 hours aside for a thorough visit. Entry fee varies depending on the gallery.
Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and Resort
The Nong Nooch Tropical Garden and Resort, located about 15-kilometres south of Pattaya, is one of the biggest landscaped properties in South-East Asia. Spread across 500 acres, the variety of flowering plants and trees found here are feast to one’s eyes. You can also see the largest collection of orchids here.
There is something for everyone here – elephant shows, sports car museum, botanical garden, a zoo, Thai cultural show. The villas at the resort are comfortable. However, you can make a day-trip from Pattaya and avoid staying over. The restaurants at Nong Nooch are multi-cuisine with a variety of Indian dishes.
The Thai cultural extravaganza is the highlight and entry fee for adults and children is 600 Baht and 500 Baht respectively.
Coral Island
No trip to Pattaya is complete without a visit to Coral Island. This place offers a variety of water sports to suit everyone’s taste. A jetty ride from Pattaya will take you to one of the several “on-the-sea” platforms.
Parasailing is one of the high points. The exhilaration of flying combined with the breathtaking view of Pattaya from above is something you will cherish for a long time. Parasailing can cost you about 450-500 Baht per ride.
The underwater walk is another water activity you must try. For all non-swimmers, this is the closest you will get to scuba diving. The underwater visuals are stunning and nothing like you would have seen before. The fee is 1,300 Baht and you can also opt for a video of your underwater walk at extra cost.
Please carry towels and change of clothes. Wetsuits are not provided.
The next stop is Coral Island. If you still have the adrenalin rush, go for the water scooter, banana boat or just have fun on the beach. For those who have had their fill, the beach front has several small shops selling local handicrafts, T-Shirts and gifts.
Alcazar Show
The Alcazar cabaret show is a must visit. The show has become a legend, drawing tourists from around the world. The lady-boys will charm you with beautifully choreographed dances, over-the-top costumes, dazzling performances and breathtaking backdrops.
There is one show every day between 5.30 pm to 7.00 pm. Entry fees is 550 Baht.
The performances woo audiences from different nationalities. You will be surprised to see a dance number performed to our own “Aaja Nachle”. Plan your trip and buy tickets since the performance is sold out weeks in advance.
If you don’t get tickets to the Alcazar Show, try Tiffany’s. You should not leave Pattaya without viewing one of the two shows. It is worth the watch!
Wat Phra Yai (Big Buddha Hill)
After all the adventure and fun, you can unwind and relax at Wat Phra Yai. Located about 2.5 km from Pattaya City, the 300-feet statue was completed in 1977. The solemn, peaceful Golden Buddha statue will be visible even before you reach the destination. Once you reach the foothill, you will be greeted by a riot of colours and beautiful structures. There are more than ten smaller Buddhas around the statue. There is a stairway which takes you to the top of the hill. Click a picture of the city and the coastline – it will make a beautiful postcard.
And, for those who believe in destiny – try this. There are long wood strips with numbers 1-28. You will find them in a circular container. When you shake them, one of them will pop out. On the nearby wall, you will see charts with each of the numbers, which will tell you your destiny. It is fun to try!
Entry is free and the statue is only about 15 minutes from the main city. You will find several motor taxies willing to take you there and wait for you to return. You will have to bargain on the rates.
Elephant Village
If you are travelling with kids or you are an animal lover, then the elephant village is a must on your itinerary. There are different tours and activities to suit your needs and budget. You can opt to watch the elephant show or go on an hour long elephant trek.
The Elephant Village also offers day-long activity package which includes trekking, jungle walk, rafting, silk making, Muay-Thai boxing show, Thai sword fight show, Thai dancing and authentic Thai lunch and dinner.
Where to eat
You will find every kind of eatery, food joint or cuisine in Pattaya. The city caters to every palate. If you would like to sample authentic Thai delicacies, try small hole-in-the-wall eateries in the city. The fresh, hot dishes will be handed out with courtesy and a smile. Fresh seafood and authentic international cuisine is served at many restaurants facing Pattaya Beach. If you are a staunch Indian foodie, don’t fret! Pattaya has several Indian restaurants. You will be spoilt for choice. Try Veda, Zaika or Indian by Nature.
Pattaya has so much to offer. All it needs is the time to look beyond the obvious. You will come back with not only happy memories but also the lingering feeling of cordiality, courtesy and hospitality.