Not every tourist came to Pattaya armed with a water gun for Songkran. Some went to see the big Buddha.
The crowds were thick April 15 at Khao Chee Chan, where a large image of Lord Buddha is carved into the side of the mountain. Operations officers Somphote Phantanun said the entire long Thai New Year weekend was packed with visitors from Bangkok and abroad, with many praying at the shrine there for prosperity and good health for Thailand’s new King.
Chanyawan Homchan, 36, and Janesarin Shelim, 29, said they normally visit Nonthaburi Province for Songkran, but this year decided they’d like some time off from relatives for a couple’s weekend in Pattaya.
They said they’ve been to Khao Chee Chan before, but are always impressed. They’re agenda also called for stops at the nearby Silverlake Vineyard and temples.
They paid homage to the carving on the cliffside, washed Buddha relics and paid homage to the two Bodhi trees planted by the two kings Rama IX and Rama X long ago.
Shop vendors around the area stated that because this Songkran there are many tourists who are visiting Khao Chee Chan and other nearby attractions in such large numbers, they will make a lot more profit than usual.
