Joanna James
Surprisingly enough, Thailand’s undisputed island destination, Phuket, still has a few wonders under the radar, yet to be discovered by the frequent tourists to the island. Venture beyond the beaten path, where scores of underrated sights abounding with excitement await your discovery.
Among the palm-fringed shores of Freedom, Kata, and Karon Beaches that put Phuket on the map, this slice of beach heaven nestled between Nai Thon Beach and Layan Beach National Park hardly ever sees a tourist. Although not as popular as the Thai island’s renowned beaches, this hidden gem sure does boast the attributes of a world-class beach, from the powdery white sand to the turquoise blue waters. Banana Beach, while the cause for whose rather amusing moniker isn’t apparent, one thing is absolutely certain, that is the beach’s tranquil ambience. Lounge on pristine sands in the shade of swaying palms, basking in the sun and immersing yourself in the boundless seaside serenity.
Island hopping is no stranger to tourists to Phuket, but it’s the likes of Koh Phi Phi and James Bond Islands that always grab the spotlight. Away from the island-hopping hotspots, Bon Island is an undiscovered drop of paradise amidst the majestic Andaman Sea. Hop aboard a traditional longtail boat and set sail into the wide-open seas to embark on an adventure to explore the untouched scenic island.
Away from Phuket’s string of picture-postcard beaches, the island’s rainforested, mountainous inland afford quite a few scenic outlooks that extend far into the turquoise seas, but Black Rock Viewpoint is one that hardly ever lands on a Phuket travel itinerary. While the likes of the renowned Karon Viewpoint may easily appeal to the typical tourist, this lesser-known vantage point offers more than just breathtaking views — tranquillity with the absence of thronging crowds.
Everyone passes by the oldest temple on the island of Phuket, which incidentally has no shortage of temples whatsoever, but Wat Phra Nang Sang is one of the least visited temples on the Thai island. Visitors to the ancient Buddhist temple have oodles of splendour, vibrance and architecture awaiting them, where the host of rather bizarre Buddha sculptures is clearly the highlight. Take a wander around the sacred religious site and take in the unbounded magnificence all around you.
Halfway between Phuket town and Patong Beach, Kathu Village is a small, traditional village, steeped in authenticity, well off from the island’s tourist hotspots. Beauty and scenery aren’t certainly the laid-back quarter’s strong suit, but visitors are treated to abundant serenity and oodles of authentic experiences, unlike anywhere on the Thai island. After a day of delightful touring, retreat to a 5-star resort in Phuket the likes of SAii Laguna Phuket, and continue your exploration of undiscovered and underrated attractions the tropical island has to offer.
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.
