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Wat Huai Yai

A large, ornate working temple in Huay Yai south of Pattaya, busy with Thai families making merit.

4.6(1,914)
Directions

Plan your visit

Hours
Daily 05:00–20:00

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.

Details

Full opening hours
Monday05:00–20:00
Tuesday05:00–20:00
Wednesday05:00–20:00
Thursday05:00–20:00
Friday05:00–20:00
Saturday05:00–20:00
Sunday05:00–20:00

Why go, and how to do it well

Wat Huai Yai is a big working temple in Huay Yai, the countryside district south of Pattaya, and it's where local families come to make merit. The grounds are full of gilded statues, ornate shrines and chedis.

That's the appeal. It's not a sight built for visitors like the Sanctuary of Truth, but a temple in daily use, and two of the Pattaya temple guides I checked include it.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Oct 2026

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Experience hints

Visitor favorite

Pair your visit. After Wat Huai Yai, round out your day in Pattaya with contrasting stops nearby.

2 Toongklom-Talman, Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung

Open in Google Maps

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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture

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.

Go Early Morning

Big-name temples are dramatically less crowded in the first hour after opening. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.

Wat Huai Yai: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Wat Huai Yai worth visiting?

Wat Huai Yai holds a 4.6★ rating from 1,914 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Pattaya.

What are the opening hours of Wat Huai Yai?

Wat Huai Yai is typically open 05:00–20:00 — 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 Wat Huai Yai?

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: September – October (wettest months).

Where is Wat Huai Yai located?

Wat Huai Yai is at 2 Toongklom-Talman, Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, in Pattaya. Getting around Pattaya: Baht buses (songthaews on fixed routes); Grab (widely available).

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