Khao Chi Chan – Buddha Mountain

Khao Chi Chan, also known as Buddha Mountain, is a famous beautiful destination located in Chon Buri province, just 15 km from Pattaya - Thailand's paradise island. Prominent among the majestic nature and unspoiled beauty of Khao Chi Chan is the famous statue of Shakyamuni Buddha meditating on a high cliff. The bas-relief is over 100 m high, about 70 m wide and is made entirely of 24-carat gold.

The relief of Khao Chi Chan was built in 1996 on the 50th anniversary of the reign of King Rama IX of Thailand. King Rama IX is extremely respected and worshiped by the Thai people as a living saint even though the country's power is in the hands of the prime minister and parliament. King Rama IX is also famous for his great contribution to the development of agriculture - the main economic sector of the country - when he successfully bred many high-quality crops and famous fruits for the country. In addition, he also often helps people in difficult circumstances, so most people love him.

An ancient legend has it that, at night, on this sacred mountain, a halo appears on the top of the mountain. This glow only appeared for a moment and then disappeared. Many people believe that this halo has the image of Buddha sitting on a lotus. In 1996, when King Rama IX fell seriously ill, his son tried to find the best doctors to treat him but failed. Remembering the legend of the sacred mountain, the Crown Prince and 30 elders in the country made a pilgrimage and proceeded to split the mountain in half, then sculpted a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha weighing 999kg to make merit for the king. The crown prince also wished that the light of the statue would spread around the world and bless all mankind.

The 24-carat gold-plated Buddha statue was completed after many months of construction, majestically standing on the mountain, under the strict preservation of the Thai Royal Family. The statue is created in Sukhothi style with very sharp and meticulous lines, the highlight is the Buddha statue right in the middle of the sacred mountain. From a distance, the sparkling statue highlights the solemnity of the country of golden pagodas. Every year, many visitors come to Khao Chi Chan to admire the majestic beauty of the gilded Buddha statue as well as enjoy the fresh, peaceful atmosphere, amidst the surrounding unspoiled scenery.

It takes about 30 minutes to reach Khao Chi Chan by taxi. Opening hours are from 6am to 6pm. The best time to visit Phat Ba Mountain is early in the morning when there are not many tourists or late in the afternoon to admire the romantic sunset.