Wang Sam Sien
Dedicated to the Chinese deity Guan Yu, this free-entry temple combines Buddhist and Taoist spiritual traditions, making it a culturally distinctive site among Pattaya's religious landmarks. Situated beside the famous Big Buddha, it draws visitors interested in Chinese imperial history and worship traditions, with multilingual captions explaining the stories of Chinese emperors and warlords displayed throughout the grounds. The elevated setting also offers views over Pattaya, adding a scenic dimension to the cultural visit. Visitors consistently describe the atmosphere as calm, clean, and uncrowded — noticeably quieter than the neighbouring Big Buddha site. The temple is an active place of worship that attracts both devotees and curious travellers, and the open grounds provide enough space to move around comfortably without feeling rushed. Its blend of Chinese spiritual iconography and Buddhist temple architecture gives it a character distinct from the more commonly visited Thai-style temples in the region. Good to know: Entry is free. Dress respectfully — shoulders and knees should be covered, and shoes should be removed before entering sacred areas. Specific opening hours are not listed, so visiting during daylight hours is advisable. The temple is conveniently combined with a visit to the Big Buddha next door, and having private transport arranged beforehand makes access straightforward from central Pattaya.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Wang Sam Sien, round out your day in Pattaya with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
As usual, I am avoiding posting images of worship statues as much as possible. This place is an important place for the Chinese, not just taoist. It's free to visit so do drop by too on your trip to wat phra yai. It's my second time visit and glad to see this place well maintained. Plenty of parking spaces outside.
Lovely Chinese spiritual location with wonderful views over Pattaya, combined with Buddhist temple and guest Buddha statue nearby.
I'm not religious, but it's a very nice place.. temples are beautiful. Must visit if you are in Pattaya.. right beside the big Buddha. Not many people when I came, much quieter than the Buddha place.
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.
Also Popular in Pattaya
Ko Samet
White sand beaches, tranquil, clear waters & coral reefs are the draw to this compact island.
Koh Chang
Large Thai island with dense jungle, hiking trails, waterfalls, coral reefs & scenic beaches.
Ko Mak
Laid-back Thai island known for its long, quiet beaches, beer bars, bungalows & resorts.
JK Thai Inter Language School (ED visa)
Pattaya language school offering Thai courses and ED visa support, open daily 9am–8pm in Pratumnak.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha
Doi Suthep Temple
Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi
The Grand Palace
Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
Monumental Buddhist temple right on the river, with an iconic, ornately tiled central prang (spire).
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