Listly by Anastasia Smith
From awe-inspiring viewpoints, stunningly ornamented Buddhist temples to incredible beaches, Phuket provides ease of access to a slew of holiday escapes that are well worth capturing and admiring.
Sandwiched between the glorious beaches of Kata Noi and Nai Harn is one of Phuket’s most photographed destinations – Karon Viewpoint. Looking out over the Andaman Sea, Karon Viewpoint is perhaps, best known for affording outstanding vistas of the three beaches of Karon, Kata Noi and Kata Yai. Having arrived here, travellers will be presented an opportunity to take in many a highlight which ranges from white sandy beaches, emerald blue ocean and the greenery draping the mountains of Phuket.
Noted for being a cultural landmark that draws in many a local and tourist, the sought after Wat Chalong is the biggest Buddhist temple in all of Phuket. To those who fancy taking pictures and posing against historic sites, then ample time ought to be reserved for Wat Chalong which is found on Chao Fa West Road. Housing a remarkable collection of statuettes, Wat Chalong will surely complement history buffs and those visitors who take immense pride in a nation’s culture and religious beliefs. Among the temple’s distinct facets is the grand pagoda which contains a splinter of the Buddha’s bones along with various wall paintings that expertly capture the life of Lord Buddha. Further, the well-paved walkways that snake their way through green gardens will be hard to miss out on during your time at Wat Chalong.
To the carefree voyager, time spent at Phuket Town will be time well spent indeed for the sights and sounds will have you overwhelmed at every turn and corner. In fact, consider exploring the delightful section titled ‘Old Town’ where you will be well placed to unearth the riches of yesteryear. Characterised by Sino-colonial mansions which were once occupied by tin barons, Phuket Old Town allows the holidaymaker to pick and choose from a splendid collection of backdrops and stopovers that extend across public and private museums, ancient temples, ornate shophouses and charming café establishments. Should you be on the lookout for a decent mode of lodging that is in close proximity to Phuket Town, then consider Anantara Layan Phuket Resort where you may enjoy a luxury suite Phuket experience.
Brimming with many a spectacular scene is Phuket’s Kata Beach which encompasses 1.5 km of golden sands. Dotted with verdant stretches that add to its allure, Kata Beach is best visited during the evening for the sunset here is simply too stunning to be summed up in words alone. Known as an ideal haven to soak up the sun, swim and test out your surfing skills, this stretch of beach is a magnet for beach bums but is never too crowded.
Surround yourself with sweeping panoramas of Phuket’s eastern and southeastern portions from one of its most cherished vantage points which is referred to as Promthep Cape. Worthy of mention is the lighthouse here which doubles as a museum where you may enter and inspect a fascinating array of maritime objects that go back centuries. If lady luck is on your side, then head out to the outdoor terrace from where you will be able to make out the shapes of Koh Racha Yai and Phi Phi Islands. Back at the carpark, do allocate time for the stalls from where you can purchase snacks, beachwear, batik garments and eye-catching handicrafts.