Anastasia Smith
Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is best known for its idyllic beaches, exciting nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Beyond the usual offerings, Phuket has so much more to offer its visitors, so keep reading this article five cultural gems that are sure to elevate any holiday on this island!
Widely known as Soi Rommanee, tourists are encouraged to step back in time by wandering through the charming streets of Phuket Old Town. This street is lined with Sino-Portuguese shophouses which are home to many local businesses such as guesthouses, shops and restaurants. Start the experience by tucking into some crispy roti and hearty chicken curry with a tall glass of iced Thai milk tea before moving on to some shopping for local souvenirs or clothes. A tip: Don’t forget to bring a camera along for the adventure as Soi Rommanee offers several stunning backgrounds for that perfect picture.
Want to learn more about Phuket’s vast Sino-Portuguese history? Consider visiting the Phuket Thai Hua Museum, which is housed within a beautifully restored century-old building and offers visitors a fascinating journey through the island’s cultural heritage. Spend time delving into exhibits showcasing Thailand’s early Chinese settlers, the tin mining industry, and vibrant Peranakan culture. Explore the intricacies of Baba-Nyonya heritage through artefacts, photographs, and interactive displays which narrate the tales of Phuket’s multicultural roots.
Don’t forget to visit the Heroine’s Monument in Phuket, which is a significant historical landmark marking the bravery of Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon – two local women who led the defence of Phuket against Burmese invaders in 1785. The monument is located at a busy roundabout on Thepkasattri Road and features statues of the heroines, whose successful efforts in organising Phuket’s defences have become a source of local pride and inspiration. Hungry after sightseeing? For a truly exquisite dining experience, make a trip to one of the Phuket restaurants the likes of Age Restaurant Phuket for a delightful steak dinner paired with wine from the cellar.
Located in Phuket’s Chalong Bay, Wat Chalong stands as a revered symbol of spirituality on the island. This elaborate Buddhist temple is dedicated to two well-respected monks – Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, who played pivotal roles in healing the sick and settling disputes among the local community. Take in the stunning views of the temple pagodas and pay homage to the revered statues of the monks enshrined within. Visitors to Wat Chalong Temple can also join local devotees in prayers and lighting incense sticks. A tip: Be sure to dress appropriately when visiting Wat Chalong as it is a religious site.
Located in Kathu, the Phuket Mining Museum is one of the island’s most interesting museums and offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Phuket’s extensive tin mining history, which significantly shaped its economy and culture. Built in a Sino-Portuguese architecture style, the Phuket Mining Museum showcases important artefacts, detailed exhibits, and life-sized dioramas, providing visitors with an immersive experience of the tin mining era and its significant impact on the development of the island.
