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Viharn Sien
Temples & Culture
Pattaya

Viharn Sien

4.6(3,314 reviews)

Officially known as Anek Kusala Sala, or "The Abode of the Gods," this ornate cultural attraction sits just 20 minutes from central Pattaya and holds one of the most remarkable collections of Chinese art and antiques in Southeast Asia. What appears modest from the outside reveals itself across three floors as a genuine imperial-style complex, featuring life-size Terracotta Warriors, a jade Goddess Guanyin, golden dragon sculptures, and ceramics dating back 3,000 years. The sheer scale and quality of the collection regularly surprises visitors who come expecting a simple temple. The atmosphere is ceremonial and serene, with the architecture and artefacts working together to create an immersive sense of Chinese imperial culture. The building itself is richly decorated in traditional Chinese style, and the collection spans religious iconography, ancient pottery, and dynastic relics that reward patient, curious visitors. Those who engage a local guide report a significantly richer experience, as the history behind the foundation and individual pieces adds considerable depth to what is on display. Admission is 50 baht per person, payable in cash at the ticket booth located across the road from the entrance. Opening hours run daily from 08:00, closing at 17:00 on weekdays and 17:30 on weekends. Visitors are advised to arrive on an empty stomach, as there is a great deal to see across all three floors and the visit can easily fill several hours. Ample parking is available on site.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Viharn Sien, round out your day in Pattaya with contrasting stops nearby.

Visitor Reviews

🚨 Just 20 minutes from Pattaya is a REAL Chinese imperial palace hidden in plain sight! 🏯 Golden dragons, a jade Goddess Guanyin, life-size Terracotta Warriors and… ceramics that are 3,000 YEARS old! Viharn Sien (Anek Kusala Sala) isn’t just a temple-museum. It’s one of the most impressive collections of Chinese artifacts outside China. Built in 1987 as a gift to the King of Thailand for his 60th birthday. The Chinese government donated statues, and inside you’ll find ancient Shang dynasty vases, bronze, jade, and replicas of Qin Shi Huang’s warriors that look incredibly real. Entrance fee — only 50 baht. Less than a Starbucks coffee. But the experience? Absolutely priceless. If you’ve been there — drop your photos in the comments and let’s blow up the feed! 🔥

You should visit this place with the local guide. They had long story of setting up the foundation establishment. Besides, there are a lot of valuable antiques from China. If you have luck you could pray to the Goddess of Mercy Guan Yin.

There's a lot of parking. Ticket 50THB per person (cash only) at ticket booth across the road. Suggest having lunch before get inside, because there's a LOT to see. We went through all 3 floors and that's worth every steps.

Location Info

1000 หมู่ที่ 11 Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150, Thailand+66 38 343 555www.facebook.com/viharnrasien
Opening Hours
Monday08:00-17:00
Tuesday08:00-17:00
Wednesday08:00-17:00
Thursday08:00-17:00
Friday08:00-17:00
Saturday08:00-17:30
Sunday08:00-17:30

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

High

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

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.

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