The top sights, highlights, tours & travel itinaries curated by our Travel Experts.
Although Phuket is quite manageable and you can visit most of the highlights in a few days, it is still the largest Thai island. Only a narrow waterway separates it from the mainland. Of course Phuket is especially known for its snow-white dream beaches and turquoise blue sea. But you should also get to know the unique culture of Thailand and visit the fascinating temple complexes like Wat Chalong.
Due to the tropical climate, Phuket is evenly warm all year round. The best time to visit Phuket is during the dry months of November to April. Less
The most impressive and largest temple on the island
Thrones majestically over the city
The temple of the golden monks
In the south of Phuket the biggest, most impressive and most visited temple, Wat Chalong, awaits you. It was dedicated to the two monks Luang Pho Champ and Luang Pho Chuang who were known for their knowledge in the medicine and herbal medicine. Their statues can be visited and honoured inside. The temple disposes of a big Chedi which one can climb up and from there enjoy the marvellous view of the surroundings. There are also outbuildings like the old wooden sala. It is air-conditioned and houses wax pictures of monks. Locals use this place for meditation.
Right in the heart of Phuket city is the picturesque old town. The architecture, influenced by the Sino-Portuguese colonial style and the influence of British architects, makes the old town so unique. While strolling through the alleys you will come across beautiful murals again and again. Colourful shops offer handicrafts and many small restaurants and cafes invite you to stay. There are also numerous sights like temples, the old clock tower or the golden dragon statue in the old town. Tip: Every weekend in the evening the Thalang Road turns into a charming old town market. With cozy stalls, comfortable seats on the street, music and delicious food, happy hours are guaranteed. A culinary highlight of your Phuket holiday!
The 45 meter high Big Buddha is the new landmark of Phuket, because you can see it enthroned on the mountain Nakkerd Hill from far away. Dressed completely in white marble, you will be presented with an impressive sight. To visit him is an absolute must when you are on holiday in Phuket. There is a Buddha museum in the temple and if a monk is present, he will bless you if you wish. The entrance to the temple is free of charge.
The temple of the golden monks is located north of Phuket city in Thalang. Here is one of the most famous (partly in the earth) Buddha statues of Thailand. In the temple hall there are several altars where believers come together with offerings to pray. A monk blesses them and ties a lucky bracelet around them. The rear part houses about 10 Buddha and monk figures covered with gold leafs, which give the temple its name.
In the northeast of Phuket is the Bang Rong Pier, from where you can take a boat to the nearby islands. There are also regular supply boats to the neighbouring islands, so you can watch the fishermen arriving with their boats and unloading their catches. A mangrove-lined jetty leads you to a floating restaurant where you can relax and eat freshly caught fish and enjoy the view of the river. Less
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