Joanna James
The places of worship that you will easily stumble upon when traversing through Phuket feature a mix of Buddhist temples (wats) and Taoist temples (Chinese shrines). Provided below is a list of temples that are well worth travelling to.
A fascinating temple replete with eye-catching design facets, Wat Chalong or ‘Wat Chaitararam’ as it is officially referred to is a great way to learn about Buddhism and watch as locals pray and engage in ritualistic practices. Within the temple’s westerly old hall is where you will encounter the Buddhist statue of Poh Than Jao Wat while inside the four walls of a neighbouring hall, statues of two former abbots are kept. Worthy of commentary is the grand pagoda, which contains detailed wall paintings that depict the life of the Buddha and a splinter of a bone of the revered spiritual leader.
Located some 13.5 km from Phuket International Airport is one of the Phuket’s most intriguing temples. Called Wat Phra Thong, patrons and devotees setting foot here will be warmly welcomed by a sight for sore eyes – a partially protruding golden image of the Buddha, which is by far, the main draw at the temple. Rated as one of the island’s oldest temples, it is believed that the temple received its name after a visit by Rama VI in 1909.
Named after a canal that once flowed in front of the shrine’s gates, Jui Tui Shrine is one of the many Taoist shrines in Phuket. Found in Old Phuket Town, Jui Tui Shrine is a work of art with colourful gates and colossal pillars adorned with golden dragons adding to the allure of the attraction. A good time to visit Jui Tui Shrine will be when the Phuket Vegetarian Festival is celebrated in October and November as this is when you can learn more of the region’s history and at the same time tuck into flavoursome street fare.
An architectural marvel that is serenely positioned along Dibuk Road, Talat Yai, Muang, spending time at Wat Putta Mongkon is a must. Functioning as a school for educating young monks, this Buddhist temple comprises a central hall that is beautified in the Sino-Portuguese design style, a yellow chedi and a small bell tower that you may visit. Also, walking into the temple garden will ensure that you pass several trees inscribed with Buddhist scripture.
Referred to as Karon Temple, Wat Suwan Khiriket is emblematic of how Buddhist and Chinese architectural elements can work together. To those wanting to get acquainted with local mannerisms and beliefs, then a trip to Wat Suwan Khiriket beckons. Making your way from M Social Hotel Phuket, which is treated as a well-equipped Phuket luxury hotel to be at will soon have you in awe of the temple’s gold-plated spires and 2 green nagas, positioned at its entrance. The best time to visit will be during the morning where you may witness monks go through their daily rituals.
Located in Thalang is Wat Srisoonthorn, a place of faith and culture that is characterised by an impressive 29-metre-tall statuette of a sleeping Buddha at the summit of its central building. Figurines of a giant and lions that are associated with Thai mythology are found around the temple and are thought to be its guardians. Ascending the bell tower will grant you an opportunity to view Wat Srisoonthorn from an elevated position.
Laying claim to a history nearing one and a half centuries, the sacred Wat Kosit Wihan, nestled north of Phuket Town is encircled by verdant environs and moving scenery. Part of its design is its 3-roofs and dazzling architecture that extends across all nooks and crannies. Among its highlights is a statue of the shrine’s 1st abbot – Lung Por Lod and a laughing Buddha statuette that will easily make you pause and take notice.
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.
