Joanna James
While most holidaymakers head to Phuket for the white, sandy beaches and the delectable seafood, there's more to a vacation in paradise than these vacation aspirations. Here are ten iconic temples that should be part of every traveller's Phuket itinerary.
Ranked among the island's most noteworthy landmarks and photographed sites, the Phuket Big Buddha Temple is no ordinary religious edifice in the beach hub. Best known for the 45m high sculpture of Lord Buddha, which towers above the surrounding landscape, this charming temple occupies a special place in the hearts of local Buddhist devotees and visitors with a love of panoramic views.
Occupying the fringes of Phuket Town is the breathtaking Wat Wichit Sangkaram. Spread out across a vast expanse, this active place of worship is a hotbed of activity during religious festivals every year but is largely ignored by tourists due to its off-the-beaten-path location in a back street.
Another obscure and lesser-known temple in Phuket Town is the Khao Rang Temple. While most tourists do not venture down to this particular area due to the inherent difficulties of finding the road leading to this sacred venue, those who do will be regarded with one of the most charming religious institutions on the island.
Tourists based at Travelodge Phuket Town or any similar family hotel in Phuket should also pay homage to Wat Putta Mongkon, which is also called Wat Mongkol Nimit by locals. While it may not be the most visually stunning temple in Phuket Town, it is one of the most historical temples in the area and is located near Thalang Road.
With its main gate located between two discreet shophouses, it is easy to miss the entrance and the flight of stairs leading up to this beautiful place of worship in Phuket. This temple is seemingly built to face Wat Khao Rang, which lies on the opposite side of town. Only local pilgrims seem to frequent this idyllic little temple.
Wat Naka or Wat Nakaram may not have any distinguishing qualities but is worth the visit just to gaze upon the golden Chedi that has become a main attraction. This temple is conveniently located opposite the bustling Phuket Weekend Market, and a tour of the temple also affords one the chance to shop at this busy market.
Wat Suwan Khiri Wong is often a temple that most visitors explore on their way to or from the airport. Located near the northern edge of Patong Beach, it is a visually captivating sight that's not just reserved for culture buffs.
Recognisable from the white walls surrounding the temple, Wat Tha Rua is another gem of a sacred venue to tour on the drive to the airport.
Dating back to the 19th century, Chalong Temple is the biggest and most frequented temple on the island. Although the official name of the temple is Wat Chaithararam, all the signs on the way to the locale identify this grand structure as the Chalong Temple.
Known for its tiny golden Chedi, Wat Thepnimit is another temple to visit during a stay in 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.
