Prince of Chumphon Monument
Perched on a hilltop overlooking Pattaya, the Prince of Chumphon Monument pays tribute to Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, widely regarded as the father of the Royal Thai Navy. The site holds genuine historical and cultural significance, drawing both local visitors who come to pay their respects and travellers seeking a deeper connection to Thai heritage beyond the city's beaches and entertainment strips.
The monument's elevated position is its defining feature, offering some of the most expansive views available of Pattaya city and the surrounding bay. Visitors can take in the full urban panorama stretching down to the coastline, making it a popular spot for photography. The atmosphere tends to be calm and reflective, with a mix of Thai locals and international tourists sharing the space. It sits within the Tamnak Hill viewpoint area, adding further scenic appeal to the visit.
Entry is free of charge, making it an accessible addition to any Pattaya itinerary. The monument is open daily from 07:30 to 19:00, and visiting earlier in the day or late afternoon generally offers softer light for photographs and cooler temperatures. Parking at the top of the hill is limited, so those arriving by car should plan accordingly. Visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully, as this is a site of cultural reverence for many Thai people.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Prince of Chumphon Monument, round out your day in Pattaya with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
Review Title: Best View of Pattaya & a Piece of Thai History If you're looking for the ultimate spot for panoramic photos of Pattaya, this is it! The Prince of Chumphon Monument is located at the top of Pratumnak Hill, offering a bird's-eye view of the entire bay. Historical Significance: The monument honors Admiral Abhakara Kiartivongse, revered as the "Father of the Royal Thai Navy". It has a deep spiritual atmosphere for locals; you’ll often see people praying and lighting incense. Unique Design: The statue of the Admiral in his naval uniform stands on a black marble base, and the entire area is designed to resemble the bow of a ship. The Views: Bring your camera! From here, you can see the Bali Hai Pier, and Koh Larn island in the distance. My tips for visitors: Entrance Fee: Entry to the grounds is free of charge. Best Time to Visit: Aim for early morning or late afternoon before sunset to avoid the midday heat and catch the best photography light. Dress Code: As this is a sacred site, please dress respectfully (cover shoulders and knees). Accessibility: The area is wheelchair accessible, and the Wat Khao Phra Bat temple is right next door and worth a quick visit. Enjoy :)
The best top view of Pattaya city!! Drive car to the top hill and parking limited.
Nice area to put up a monument. Many local tourist come here to pay their respect to this monument and also to enjoy the fantastic view at Pattaya and the Bay Area. You should go see this when you go see the viewpoint anyway. Also because the view from the monument area is a bit different than from the viewpoint area even though they are only like 150 meters apart
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 1,390 reviews on Google.
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Prince of Chumphon Monument: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Prince of Chumphon Monument worth visiting?
Prince of Chumphon Monument holds a 4.7★ rating from 1,390 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Pattaya.
What are the opening hours of Prince of Chumphon Monument?
Prince of Chumphon Monument is typically open 07:30-19:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Prince of Chumphon Monument?
The best months to visit Pattaya are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – October (rainy, rough seas).
Where is Prince of Chumphon Monument located?
Prince of Chumphon Monument is at WVC8+QCH, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand, in Pattaya. Getting around Pattaya: Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes); Grab (widely available).
Location Info
WVC8+QCH, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, ThailandVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: June – October (rainy, rough seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minibus from Suvarnabhumi Airport (~1.5 hrs). Bus from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal Ekkamai (~2 hrs). No direct train.
Getting around
- •Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes)
- •Grab (widely available)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Ferry to Koh Larn island
Where to stay near Prince of Chumphon Monument
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places
Khao Phra Bat Pattaya
A hilltop temple offering panoramic views of Pattaya Bay, free to enter and open daily until 6pm.
Love In Museum
A bold, adults-only art museum in Pattaya celebrating love and intimacy through sculpture, painting, and installations.
Clock Tower
A recognisable Pattaya landmark near the Bali Hai Pier, serving as a gateway to Koh Larn island tours.
Chaloem Phra Kiat Park
A hilly, shaded park on the slopes of Big Buddha Hill, popular with joggers, locals, and wildlife.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
Wat Arun
Porcelain-covered spires best seen late afternoon, and yes, the midday heat on those grounds is brutal.
Where to stay near Prince of Chumphon Monument
Find hotels in Pattaya on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: June – October (rainy, rough seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Minibus from Suvarnabhumi Airport (~1.5 hrs). Bus from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal Ekkamai (~2 hrs). No direct train.
Getting around
- •Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes)
- •Grab (widely available)
- •Motorbike taxis
- •Ferry to Koh Larn island