Pattaya Hindu Selfie City Tour with Lunch

Exploring Pattaya’s Sacred and Scenic Sights: A Balanced Look at the Hindu Selfie City Tour with Lunch

If you’re visiting Pattaya and want a quick overview of its most notable Hindu temples, scenic viewpoints, and some of its famous attractions, this Selfie City Tour might catch your eye. Offered by Way to Bangkok, it promises a five-hour journey through some of the city’s key sites, accompanied by a guide, air-conditioned transport, and a lunch break. But while it covers many highlights, there are a few things worth keeping in mind before booking.

What we appreciate about this tour is its convenience — a guided visit that includes transportation and entrance fees, making it a straightforward way to see Pattaya’s top Hindu landmarks without stressing over logistics. We also like that it features photo-worthy stops like the Big Buddha and Pattaya Viewpoint, ideal for travelers keen on capturing memories. The inclusion of lunch adds value, especially for those visiting on a tight schedule.

However, a potential drawback is that the tour tends to be quite rushed — some reviews note it ends early or involves additional costs unexpectedly, which could impact your overall experience. Also, the itinerary includes popular spots but may not allow for deeper exploration at each site. This tour suits visitors looking for a quick, guided overview of Pattaya’s religious and scenic highlights rather than a comprehensive or immersive experience.

If you’re a first-time visitor wanting a snapshot of Pattaya’s most iconic Hindu temples and viewpoints, this tour offers a practical option. Just keep in mind that it’s best for those comfortable with a busy schedule and short visits.

Key Points

• Convenient Guided Experience: Includes transportation, entrance fees, and a guide, making it easy to see multiple sites in half a day.
• Photogenic Stops: Offers great photo opportunities at Buddha Mountain, Pattaya Viewpoint, and the Big Buddha.
• Limited Time at Each Site: Expect brief visits; some sites like the temples are only around 30 minutes.
• Potential Extra Costs: One reviewer mentioned an unexpected demand for additional transportation money, so keep your budget flexible.
• Rushed Schedule: The tour might be cut short, with some participants noting it ended earlier than the scheduled 5 hours.
• Authentic Highlights: Visits to the Goddess Durga and Shiva Temples provide a glimpse into Hindu culture in Pattaya.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Buddha Mountain (Khao Chi Chan)

Our tour begins at Buddha Mountain, famous for its giant carved image of Lord Buddha, etched into a cliff face. Constructed in 1995, it’s a striking sight and offers a peaceful start to your day. With a 30-minute stop, you get just enough time to admire the sculpture and snap some photos. Visiting this site offers a sense of serenity and a chance to appreciate Buddhist art and devotion, even if only from a distance.

One reviewer noted the significance: “It’s built on a giant cliff and makes for a great photo op,” which is true — the scale and craftsmanship are impressive. The visit is included in the tour fee, so you won’t need to worry about extra charges here.

ISKCON Pattaya Temple (Goddess Durga & Shiva Temples)

Next, you’ll visit ISKCON Pattaya, where the focus is on Hindu temples dedicated to Goddess Durga and Lord Shiva. This stop is particularly meaningful for those interested in Hindu culture and spiritual architecture. It’s a free visit, and you’ll have about 30 minutes to explore the temples, take photos, and absorb the atmosphere.

One review highlights that this stop is a “famous Hindu landmark,” which might be a highlight for travelers interested in religious sites. For some, this part of the tour was a quieter, more contemplative experience compared to the busy city stops.

Jomtien Beach

The tour includes a brief visit to Jomtien Beach, a popular seaside destination. While the stop is only 30 minutes, it provides a scenic break from the temples and city sights. You might find this is a quick peek, with time mainly for photos rather than lounging on the sand.

This stop offers a chance to see one of Pattaya’s well-known beaches but isn’t designed for a relaxing beach day. It adds variety to the itinerary, giving a taste of Pattaya’s coastal vibe.

Big Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Yai)

One of the most iconic landmarks in Pattaya, the Big Buddha is a towering 300-foot-high statue. Recognized as Wat Phra Yai, this site is a must-see for visitors interested in religious sculpture and panoramic views. With a 30-minute visit, you’ll get to appreciate the grandeur of the statue and perhaps make a quick prayer or take photos from the surrounding area.

According to reviews, this site is a highlight, with some noting it as “one of the largest Buddha images in the world.” The included entrance fee makes it accessible, and the views from this temple are quite spectacular.

Pattaya Viewpoint (Khao Pattaya Viewpoint)

Next, a quick trip to Khao Pattaya Viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the city and the Gulf of Thailand. The stop is ideal for snapping photos of Pattaya’s skyline and coast. It also features Wat Kho Phra Bat, a nearby temple on the hill, adding a spiritual element to the panorama.

One reviewer appreciated the “spectacular panoramic views,” making this a worthwhile visual highlight. The 30-minute stop is brief but perfect for a quick photo session.

Bali Hai Pier and Walking Street

The tour makes stops at Bali Hai Pier, where you witness Pattaya’s lively harbor and bustling activity. Following this, a visit to Walking Street reveals the city’s energetic nightlife — neon lights, street performers, and busy bars. These stops may be more about soaking in the city’s vibe than sightseeing, and they’re mostly free.

One insight from a reviewer is that Walking Street is a “full kilometre of nightlife,” which could be fun for some but overwhelming for others seeking a quieter experience. The stops here are brief, about 30 minutes each, providing a quick taste of Pattaya’s vibrant atmosphere.

Beach Road

Finally, Beach Road is the city’s main strip, lined with shops and restaurants. It’s a lively area to observe daily life in Pattaya, with plenty of opportunities for shopping or grabbing a snack. This concludes the tour, giving you a glimpse of the city’s commercial heart.

Practical Details

Transportation and Guide

Travel is in an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a plus, especially considering Pattaya’s heat. The tour includes a local guide who provides commentary on the sites, adding context to the sights. Reviewers mention that guides are generally knowledgeable, helping to enrich the experience.

Duration and Schedule

The official duration is around 5 hours, but some reviews note it often ends after about 3 hours, which can be disappointing if you’re expecting a full half-day. The quick pace suits those who want a snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration.

Cost and Value

At $91.92 per person, the tour offers convenience and a lot of highlights. The included lunch and entrance fees add to the value, but watch out for unexpected costs — one reviewer reported being asked for 500 Thai Bhat extra for transportation, which is not ideal.

Booking and Availability

On average, this tour is booked about 45 days in advance, indicating steady interest. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with limited mobility, as it’s designed to be accessible and mostly involves short stops.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Selfie City Tour in Pattaya is best suited for first-time visitors eager to see the city’s most recognizable Hindu temples and enjoy some scenic viewpoints without much effort. It’s perfect if you’re after quick, guided sightseeing that covers religious sites, panoramic vistas, and some lively city spots.

Travelers who prioritize authentic cultural insights will appreciate the visits to the Hindu temples, especially if guided by knowledgeable local guides. The convenience of transportation, entrance fees, and a provided lunch makes it a cost-effective package for those pressed for time.

However, if you prefer in-depth exploration or a more relaxed pace, this tour might feel too rushed. Be prepared for some surprises — like the extra transportation fee mentioned by one reviewer — and consider whether this quick overview matches your expectations.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a meal, making it convenient for travelers who want a sit-down option without additional costs.

How long do the visits last at each site?
Most stops are around 30 minutes, which is enough for photos and brief exploration but not for a deep dive into each location.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all listed attractions have their entrance fees covered in the tour price, except the Hindu temples which are free.

What transportation is used?
Travel is by air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the short transfers between sites.

Can I expect a small group or a private experience?
It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, offering a more personalized experience.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
One reviewer mentioned a demand for an extra 500 Thai Bhat for transportation, so it’s wise to have some extra cash on hand just in case.

To sum it up, this Pattaya Hindu Selfie City Tour offers a practical way to see some of the city’s major landmarks in a few hours, especially for first-timers. It provides a mix of religious sites, city views, and lively spots, all with the convenience of a guided vehicle and included lunch. Just keep in mind the quick pace and potential extra costs, and you’ll find it a decent, affordable introduction to Pattaya’s vibrant spiritual and urban life.