5 Sacred Buddhist Sculptures: Gateway to Faith and World-Class Art at Nongnooch Garden Pattaya

Beyond its world-renowned botanical landscapes, Nongnooch Garden Pattaya is also a cultural sanctuary and spiritual haven. Visitors are invited to pay homage to 5 sacred Buddhist sculptures from around the globe, masterfully crafted to reflect profound spiritual heritage, cultivate inner peace, and bring auspicious blessings to all who visit.

1. Guan Yin Bodhisattva Stepping on a Dragon (Guan Yin Bodhisattva Stepping on a Dragon for Bestowing Blessings)

• Significance & Origin: Represents the Mahayana Buddhist Bodhisattva of Boundless Mercy and Compassion. In Eastern symbolism, the dragon signifies immense power and divine protection. Standing atop the dragon while bestowing blessings symbolizes overcoming obstacles, securing prosperity, and safeguarding devotees from misfortune.

• Artistic Highlights: Graceful and delicate contours harmonized with powerful poise, radiating unconditional benevolence and spiritual virtue.

2. Korean Buddha Statue, Bongwonsa Temple

• Significance & Origin: Modeled after the sacred icon at Bongwonsa Temple, an ancient historic center of the Jogye Order in South Korea.

• Artistic Highlights: Characterized by the refined simplicity of traditional Korean Buddhist aesthetics, inspiring deep serenity, meditative focus, and pure devotion.

3. Phra Sangkajai / Budai (The Laughing Buddha)

• Significance & Origin: Commemorates Maha Kaccana (Phra Sangkajai), a chief disciple of Gautama Buddha celebrated as foremost in elucidating profound teachings. In Chinese Buddhist tradition, he is often venerated as Budai (the "Cloth-Bag Monk") or an incarnation of Maitreya, embodying fortune, wisdom, abundance, and joy.

• Artistic Highlights: A cheerful countenance and warm, welcoming smile that impart an immediate sense of contentment, optimism, and kindness.

4. Laykyun Sekkya Buddha, Myanmar

• Significance & Origin: Replicated from the monumental "Laykyun Sekkya" in Monywa, Myanmar—one of the world's tallest standing Buddha statues—standing as a testament to the enduring faith of the Land of Golden Pagodas.

• Artistic Highlights: Classic Burmese Buddhist artistry marked by towering dignity, conveying solemn grandeur, tranquility, and profound reverence.

5. Daibutsu (The Great Buddha), Japan

• Significance & Origin: Inspired by Japan's historic monumental statues, such as those at Kamakura (Kotoku-in Temple) and Nara (Todai-ji Temple). These icons represent Amitabha and Vairocana Buddha, embodying supreme enlightenment, wisdom, and spiritual purity.

• Artistic Highlights: Meditative, introspective posture and harmonious proportions that invite visitors into stillness, mindfulness, and inner peace.

Visitor Information

• Location: Nongnooch Garden Pattaya, Chonburi, Thailand

• Opening Hours: Open daily, including public holidays (08:00 AM – 06:00 PM)

• Visitor Tips: Modest attire is recommended when paying respects at sacred grounds. Visitors can comfortably combine paying homage, photography, and garden sightseeing throughout the day.