Wat Chai Mongkron

Ten acres of calm sitting right in south Pattaya is not something I'd have predicted, but that's what this place is. A Royal Monastery founded in 1937, still a working temple with monks in residence and a traditional massage school on the grounds. There's no entry fee. Wander the courtyards, sit somewhere shaded, let the temple cats get on with their business. Afternoons are usually near empty.

The one thing that trips people up is the closing. Buildings start shutting around 4pm, so turning up at half three means you'll see some of it and miss the rest. Go in the morning or early afternoon and give yourself proper time. There's a cafe on site selling drinks cheaply if the heat gets to you. The main temple involves steps, worth knowing if stairs are an issue.

Cars and motorbikes park right in front of the temple buildings, which does spoil the view a bit. Nobody's fault, it's a functioning monastery in a city, but don't expect postcard framing.