The Sanctuary of Truth in Pattaya, Thailand is a massive wooden temple covered with intricate carvings in the Buddhist and Hindu tradition. Also known as Wang Boran, the Sanctuary of Truth is technically not an official temple, but rather a work of art. There is a 500 baht entry fee. Since the Sanctuary sits right next to the ocean and is assaulted by salt water continuously, it is safe to say that the funds go primarily to maintenance and upkeep. The Sanctuary seems to be in a constant state of repair.
The Sanctuary of Truth is absolutely impressive and well worth a visit. According to the official website, the Sanctuary’s purpose is to use art and culture as “a reflection of the Ancient Vision of Earth, Ancient Knowledge, and Eastern Philosophy. Within this complex, visitors will understand Ancient Life, Human Responsibility, Basic Thought, Cycle of living, Life Relationship with Universe and Common Goal of Life toward Utopia.”
The style of the Sanctuary is evocative of Khmer architecture, displaying hand-carved wooden sculptures reminiscent of ancient Angkor. There are four gopura (towers in the Hindu style), representing images from the Buddhist and Hindu religions and mythologies of Cambodia, China, India and Thailand.
