Joanna James
Turquoise blue waters, pristine white sands and blissful seaside experiences aren't the only things the island of Phuket has got on offer. Awaiting your exploration is a host of historical places, guaranteed to make for some delightful sightseeing and touring on your time on the idyllic Thai island.
Sitting serenely atop Nakkerd Hill, overlooking Chalong, Big Buddha, Phuket, is one of the island's most distinctive landmarks and visited tourist attractions. Dating back only to 2004, the Buddhist temple may not be that rich in history, but it certainly is one of Phuket's most important places of worship and historical sites. A visit to Phuket Big Buddha or The Great Buddha of Phuket will not only afford the admiration of its majestic big white seated Buddha but also mind-blowing panoramic views at the base of the 45-metre-high monument.
The island of Phuket is home to 29 temples and Wat Chalong basks in the glory of being the largest, most popular, and arguably the most beautiful of them all. Wat Chalong or formally Wat Chaiyathararam is dedicated to two highly respected monks back in the day — Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang — whose life-sized wax figures take centre stage in the temple. Besides that, the temple also hosts a precious relic — an actual bone fragment of Lord Buddha himself.
An ornate Buddhist temple located in Thalang, Phuket, Wat Phra Thong is best known for its gold statue of a half-buried Buddha, which, unfortunately, was broken during the Burmese invasion. The temple sees a good number of tourists who come to lay their eyes on the striking Buddha statue as well as locals who come to make their prayers at this sacred place of worship. Adding to the temple's appeal is a museum on the same premises, which takes you back through the island's history.
Come 26th December 2004, the Boxing Day Tsunami hit Thailand as it did to many other Asian nations. 300 locals and tourists in Phuket lost their lives to the tragic waves, making it go down as one of the most harrowing days in the history of the Southeast Asian nation. The Tsunami Memorial Park was built in remembrance of the tsunami victims, which also hosts an annual event in commemoration of the lost souls.
In the vicinity of Phuket's popular Karon Beach, Wat Suwan Khiri Khet is an incredibly striking temple complex that sees a good number of visitors every week who come to experience its magnificence. The highlight of the temple complex is the two green dragons that encircle the compound. Treat your eyes to this striking work of ancient architecture and retreat to a luxury hotel in Phuket the likes of SAii Laguna Phuket.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
