Joanna James
Phuket is the largest and the most idyllic of all Thai islands, and its host of historical sites are just as incredible as the palm-dotted shores, excellent snorkelling and top-class entertainment that are characteristic of the island. Come, savour a dose of fascinating history in charming Phuket.
Standing guard over the city of Phuket, sitting atop Nakkerd Hill so dramatically is the majestic Big Buddha, one of the most sacred places of worship and top tourist attractions in Phuket that draws tourists in droves almost every day. The 45-metre high, white jade marble statue embellished with remarkable craftsmanship set against the backdrop of the azure blue sky — it is a sight that has to be seen to be believed. The majestic white Buddha alone is a sight that is worth contemplating, but the real treat lies on the summit, at the base of the statue, where you are afforded mind-blowing panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
The aforementioned Big Buddha may steal the spot as the most popular temple in Phuket, but it is widely considered that Wat Chalong or formally Wat Chaiyathararam is the largest and the most important of all the 29 Buddhist temples that call Phuket home. The outstanding architectural magnificence boasted throughout the temple also make it one of the most beautiful of the bunch. Wat Chalong is dedicated to two highly respected monks in the history of Thailand — Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang — whose life-size wax models can be seen housed in the temple.
Visitors to the ornate Buddhist temple in Thalang, Phuket, have a lot to treat their eyes to, but the temple is best known for its half-buried, golden Buddha — the temple’s star attraction that puts Wat Phra Thong on the map for tourists to the island of Phuket. Aside from the renowned Buddha statue, the striking carvings and the overall architectural splendour also add to the delight of both templegoers and tourists.
Among the whole host of temples that call the island of Phuket home, Jui Tui Shrine is a temple that truly sets itself apart from the bunch. While the majority of Phuket temples are Buddhist temples, Jui Tui Shrine is a temple of Chinese gods. The sacred place of worship houses a number of sculptures of Chinese gods. The architectural magnificence that embellishes the temple is absolutely remarkable, so much so that it is more popular as an architectural landmark than a place of worship.
Take a break from all the temples and sacred sights and make your way to the Old Phuket Town for an appealingly different dose of history. Take in the old-world charm as you meander through the atmospheric historical quarter. Vacationing tourists could also avail themselves of a slew of attractive Phuket resort deals offered by properties such as 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.
