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Wat Phra Yai sits atop Phra Tamnak Hill and is instantly recognisable by its 18-metre-high golden Buddha statue in the Maravijaya (subduing Mara) posture. The temple is the spiritual heart of Pattaya. On clear days the viewpoint adjacent to the statue gives sweeping vistas over both Pattaya and Jomtien bays.
The temple was established in 1977 when the hill was still largely undeveloped scrubland. Local fishermen funded the initial Buddha image as a blessing for safe voyages. As Pattaya grew, the temple became a landmark for both residents and tourists.