If you thought that all there is to see in Phuket are the beaches and islands, think again! Sure, these are what make this destination a must-visit for world travelers in the like but there's more to this island than coastlines. In fact, it'd be a shame if that's what you only focus on when you go here yourself. Thailand has such a rich and colorful culture and Phuket offers all of that too.
Just like Bangkok, this place has its own fair share of beautiful temples you simply have to see. Gilded, opulent, yet serene and solemn, going to any one of them is quite an unforgettable experience.
Wat Chalong
As the largest temple in Phuket, it's only natural that Wat Chalong is a must-see! With such a gilded and opulent exterior, it's no wonder so many people go here just to marvel at its beauty. And when they go inside, they'll get to learn more about the history of Buddhism in Thailand. Most notably, they also get to know more about Luang Pho Cham and Luang Pho Chuang, the two monks who established the temple. They're two of the most venerated monks in all of Southeast Asia are instrumental to the spread of Buddhism in the country.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Pekka Oilinki
The Big Buddha
Phuket's Big Buddha is truly a marvel worth seeing. Named the 'Maravija Buddha,' you can see this 45-meter tall white Burmese marble statue from a mile away. As it sits atop the Nakkerd Hills, you can't help but feel the majesty of Buddha and its imposing effect on Thailand as a whole. Furthermore, when you actually get near its feet, the view from up there is second to none. All the efforts of climbing up such a steep flight of stairs won't be in vain. From here, you'll get to see all the
different districts, coasts, forests, and more of Phuket in all their glory.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Wat Srisoonthorn
Still want to see a huge Buddha in Phuket? Then head on over to Wat Srisoonthorn. Located in the Thalang district, this place is famous for its 29-meter-long reclining Buddha. While it's a lot shorter than the more iconic 46-meter-log reclining Buddha in Bangkok's Wat Pho temple, this version is just as majestic. Its golden sheen exhibits its heavenly glory while a mischievous smile reminds visitors of the diety's gentle nature. Scattered around the monument are smaller Buddha statues, dragons, and phets. For those who don't know, phets are creepy thin ghosts that, according to Thai myths, are used to be souls of criminals.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Wat Phra Thong
Another golden Buddha you just have to see for yourself is the half-buried statue in Wat Phra Thong. Seeing it for yourself is one of
the best things to do in Phuket. Interestingly enough, the mystery behind why this luminescent Buddha was buried in the first place remains unsolved. In fact, it has even stayed at its exact spot for a couple of centuries now. There were attempts back in the 1700s when Burmese invaders wreaked havoc on the island but every time they tried to move it, a horde of locusts would attack. And unlike other temples where Buddha statues were built afterward, Wat Pha Thong is one that was built around the half-buried Buddha instead.
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Chainwit
Wat Phra Nang Sang
Wat Phra Nang Sang stands as one of the oldest temples in all of Phuket. It's actually been around for over 200 years and remains one of the most well-visited of them all. It helps that, compared to other temples, the appearance of the place itself stands out. While other temples mostly depict Thai culture and heritage, Wat Phra Nang Sang is distinct for its Chinese aesthetics. Red is a lot more prominent than gold throughout the temple and Chinese dragons even decorate the many pillars and towers here. If not for the warm Phuket weather and the ancient Siam architecture, you'd sooner think you were in China when you go here!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Wat Cherngtalay
Located near the bustling Cherngtalay village, Wat Cherngtalay is pretty easy to get to via both private and
public transport. However, since it's near the more famous heroines’ monument, you can easily pass it on the way. And it'd be a shame if you do because this temple is among the most majestic on the island. With its stark white and gold color scheme, it truly exhibits the beauty of the Siam culture of Thailand. From the triangular roofs to the opulent exterior, you can tell this temple's heritage even from a mile away!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Wat Nakaram
Finally, there's Wat Nakaram! This is arguably the most unique temple of them all in Phuket, as well as one of the most popular. Its fame is thanks to two main reasons. Firstly, Wat Nakaram is near Phuket's Weekend Market, a must-see for locals and tourists alike. And the tourists who do go and shop here often visit the nearby temple while they're at it. Secondly, the shimmering golden
Chedi, with its fuller and rounder shape and sparkling ruby accents, is truly a sight to behold. It's a viral Instagram post waiting to happen!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Phuket's beaches and coastlines are all well and good, but they're not the be-all and end-all of the island. If you want to see the more cultural side of Phuket, you'll want to go to many of its beautiful temples. They represent the heritage of this beautiful island.
Once you've gone to any or all of these Phuket temples, a great way to end the day is to head back to your
luxury home here and relax!
