By Nom - 8 September 2024
Best Places To Visit In Phuket
Phuket is known as "The Pearl Of The Andaman" and it is easy to see why.
This popular island destination in Thailand is famous for its stunning natural beauty featuring lush tropical landscapes, pristine beaches and clear turquoise waters.
Phuket also offers a vibrant mix of culture and leisure, a bustling nightlife scene, numerous water sports and outdoor activities and rich culinary experiences.
Catering to a wide range of travellers, from those seeking relaxation in luxury resorts to adventure enthusiasts looking for diving, snorkeling, or exploring diverse wildlife, Phuket is a destination that effortlessly blends tradition and modernity, making it a captivating and multifaceted place to visit.
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Phuket offers multiple places to visit and activities to indulge in, making it a perfect destination for explorers and adventure seekers.
The island is renowned for its stunning beaches, where you can bask in the sun, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or partake in thrilling water sports like snorkeling, diving and kayaking.
For those seeking cultural experiences, a visit to the iconic Big Buddha, Wat Chalong or Phuket Old Town is a must, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant heritage of the island. Additionally, Phuket is home to a vibrant nightlife scene, with countless bars, clubs and entertainment venues to choose from, ensuring that the fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down.
Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure or a taste of Thai culture, Phuket has it all.
With so many different activities and places to visit to choose from, it can feel overwhelming. To assist, here is a list of our favourite activities and the best places to visit in Phuket. If you are travelling with children or teenagers, head over to our dedicated page Top 10 Activities For Teenagers In Phuket for inspriation.
Best Places To Visit In Phuket
Keep your travel plans flexible, all of these tours come with free cancellation and you can reserve your spot now and pay later.
Hanuman World is the biggest zipline park in Thailand located in the lush rainforests of Phuket. The park offers Ziplines, Abseiling, a unique exhilarating High Speed Roller Zipline and a Sky Walk.
Hanuman World is an excellent destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of Phuket's rainforests while participating in exciting outdoor activities. These thrilling experiences are suitable for visitors of all ages and skill levels making it a great choice for families and individuals looking for an adventure in this tropical paradise.
Our family had immense fun at Hanuaman World, with teenagers it is a perfect way to spend a day. We really liked the way you can select the package that suits your wishes and budget. We completed all 32 Platforms and 16 Ziplines and added the Roller Zipline (which was terrifying!) and Sky Walk.
Our package included a lunch buffet and water. There are drinks and snacks available to purchase separately and of course you can buy your photographs and videos at reception afterwards.
The experience is extremely professionally run and the guides were super fun!
Take the hassle out of waiting in line by pre-booking your entry ticket and optional transfer to Hanuman World here
Hanuman World Zip Lining
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A trip to Phuket is not complete without visiting the iconic Big Buddha or 'Phra Puttamingmongkol Akenakkiri'. The Big Buddha is a massive statue located on Nakkerd Hill in the southern part of Phuket and can be seen for miles around.
The Big Buddha itself is a breathtaking sight, standing at 45 meters (148 feet) tall and the elevated location on Nakkerd Hill provides stunning panoramic views of the island and the Andaman Sea, perfect for stunning photographs. You can find other stunning viewpoints in our Complete Guide to the Best Viewpoints in Phuket here.
Receive a blessing at Big Buddha
Thrill seekers may wish to combine an exhilarating ATV adventure through the jungle with a visit to Big Buddha. This tour offers a unique blend of adventure and spirituality making it a must-do experience for those who seek an exhilarating way to explore Phuket’s natural beauty and cultural significance.
Reserve your tour now and pay later with free cancellation here.
Big Buddha is open from 06.00 – 18.30 daily. Entry is free but donations towards ongoing contractions and maintenance are appreciated. Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon to witness a beautiful sunrise or sunset, which adds an extra layer of magic to your visit.
There is plenty to do and see at Big Buddha, it is an active temple so you may hear chanting and music. You can receive a blessing from a Monk and make a wish with the 32 monk's alms bowls for good luck and healthy 32 organs. Is your soul pure enough to make one of the gongs 'sing'?
There are several pavilions, a meditation center and smaller statues to admire. Head over to our Complete Guide To Visiting Big Buddha for detailed information here
When visiting a Buddhist Temple, it's essential to dress modestly and respectfully. This means covering your shoulders, knees and midriff (no swimsuits, short skirts, strapless tops, tank tops, wide neck tops, crop tops, short pants or mini-skirts for women, and sleeveless t-shirts for men) You can buys sarongs or shawls to cover up at the entrance THB100-150.
When visiting Phuket we always make at least one trip up to Big Buddha and it has become something of a family tradition.
While in the area, you can easily explore other nearby attractions, such as Wat Chalong, Windmill Viewpoint and the Promthep Cape.
This Tour includes a stop at Big Buddha and combines Phuket Old Town and Wat Chalong
CLOSED 2ND SEPTEMBER 2024
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Wat Chalong, also known as Wat Chaiyathararam, is the most important and revered Buddhist temple in Phuket. It is a beautiful and culturally significant site that you should consider visiting to explore the rich religious and architectural heritage of the region.
Wat Chalong is about 8 kilometers south of Phuket Town. You can easily reach it by car, taxi or motorbike. The temple is typically open daily from around 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's a good idea to check the specific opening hours before your visit, as they may vary during national holidays or religious festivities.
The main attraction is the 60-meter-tall pagoda which is decorated with paintings portraying the life of Buddha. Inside the pagoda, which has a three-level roof, you can see images of a seated, reclining and meditating Buddha. Wat Chalong even contains Buddha’s bone splinter relics, a must visit in Phuket if you’re interested in Buddhist culture.
As you approach Wat Chalong there are several kiosks where you can purchase drinks and snacks or colourful flowers, aromatic incense sticks or candles which are the most common offerings for Thais to make to Buddhist Monks or Buddha images.
Our sons were delighted by the lighting of firecrackers in a large brick built chimney which is another way to make merit, supposedly to show gratitude when one of your wishes come true. A person stands by the chimney to light the firecrackers for you, the large ones are pretty scary but make great photographs.
When visiting a Buddhist temple, it's essential to dress modestly and respectfully. This means covering your shoulders, knees, and midriff. If you're not appropriately dressed, you can borrow or rent clothing at the temple.
Entrance is free and donations are greatly appreciated.
A great way to visit Wat Chalong is to take a guided tour which also includes Big Buddha and Phuket Old Town. There are many different combinations to suit all requirements, check out your options here.
Wat Chalong
Exploring Old Phuket Town is a delightful experience that allows you to immerse yourself in Phuket's rich history and culture. The Old Town area of Phuket showcases a unique blend of colonial architecture with Chinese and Thai influences and a vibrant street art scene.
Wander along Thalang Road and its charming side street, Soi Romanee. Admire the colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings that house quaint shops, cafes and guesthouses. This area is famous for its Instagram-worthy facades and street art.
As you stroll through Old Phuket Town, you'll come across various historic buildings and mansions, including the former Standard Chartered Bank and the Thai Hua Museum. Many of these buildings have been beautifully restored. Step back in time at the On On Hotel, Phuket's first hotel. The facade is beautiful and you can wander inside the reception area where you'll feel like you have been transported back in time.
To learn more about Phuket's history visit the Peranakannitat Museum located at the old Standard Chartered Bank intersection of Phang Nga Road and Phuket Road. The museum is split into two buildings. Inside the iconic Clock Tower building you will find the small Phuket Nagara Museum (free entry 09.00-16.30) where you can take a look back at Phuket's history through a small exhibition of photographs. You can also climb up inside the clocktower. On the opposite corner is the Baba Museum (free entry 09.00-16.30) which has interactive displays and much more historical information.
You can also admire the intricate architecture and pay your respects at some of the local temples including Wat Mongkol Nimit, Wat Phud Mongkol and the Jui Tui Shrine.
Take a stroll around the gardens at The Blue Elephant Restuarant. Here you will find a colonial-style mansion, lush gardens and a centuary old Banyan tree in the historic centre of Phuket Town. The mansion is a former Governors house, known as Phra Pitak Chinpracha, which has been beautifully restored showcasing its Sino-Portuguese architecture. You can take cookery classes here as well as sample rare Peranakan dishes made with top quality ingredients.
Keep an eye out for the vibrant street art and murals that adorn Old Phuket Town's walls. They provide a creative and artistic dimension to your exploration.
On Sunday afternoons Thalang Road comes alive with the Walking Street Market (Lard Yai Market) hosting 30+ stalls offering endless things to browse and snacks to try. Open 16.00-21.00.
A tour of Phuket Old Town is often included with a trip to Wat Chalong and Big Buddha. Find out more here.
Explore Phuket Old Town
Andamanda Water Park is a tropical paradise for those seeking aquatic adventures and family fun. This popular water park has five colorfully themed zones and offers 29 thrilling waterslides, 12 extreme waterslides, a wave pool and a lazy river.
Andamanda is the perfect escape from the tropical heat with its variety of thrilling water slides, tube rides, pools and kid-friendly splash zones. So, whether you're looking to relax poolside or indulge in some adrenaline-pumping water activities, Andamanda Water Park is a fantastic destination to beat the heat and create lasting memories.
Adults can enjoy a drink at one of the 2 swim-up bars, the perfect way to relax. You can savour a dining experience at the unique floating village restaurant, reminiscent of the Thai floating markets. Tuck into local dishes and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
We spent a whole day at Andamanda and apart from eating lunch, we were on the go all day! The rides are amazing fun and terrifying at the same time!
Andamanda has all the facilities you would expect from a large waterpark: changing rooms, toilets, showers, lockers and towel hire (fee payable for lockers and towel hire). You can preload your electronic wristband with money to spend on food and drinks to save carrying cash with you.
There are also 'add-ons' available such as hiring a private cabana or VIP seats for the day or even a deluxe water villa.
You can purchase the professional photographs of yourselves at reception on your way out.
Skip the queues by booking online with reserve now pay later. Includes optional transfer. Find out how here.
Andamanda Water Park - The Great Water Kingdom
Take a day a trip to the Phi Phi Islands
A day trip to Phi Phi Islands is a popular and breathtaking adventure. The Phi Phi Islands consist of a group of six stunning islands, with Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh being the most famous. Here's a general outline of what you can expect during a day trip to Phi Phi Islands:
Most day trips to Phi Phi Islands start early in the morning depending on your starting point. You'll be transported to the pier where you'll board a speedboat for the 40-60 minute transfer.
You'll visit Phi Phi Leh the smaller of the two main islands which is the location of Maya Bay (famous for the movie "The Beach"). In recent years, Maya Bay has been closed from May - October to allow the marine environment to recover, so check before you book.
One of the highlights of this trip is snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters exploring vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life.
You may also visit the Viking Cave, where swiftlet nests are harvested for bird's nest soup and Pileh Lagoon, a stunning emerald lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs. Your tour may inclufde Monkey Beach, where you can observe wild monkeys in their natural habitat as well as Nui Bay.
There are many tours available to the Phi Phi Islands, you can choose to take a ferry or a speedboat and an island itinerary that suits you.
A day trip to the Phi Phi Islands is one of the most popular tours to take from Phuket, reserve your tour now with book now pay later here.
Recommended Day Tour: Maya Bay Phi Phi Island with Buffet Lunch - Click Here
James Bond Island, also known as Koh Tapu, is located in stunning Phang Nga Bay. It became famous after it was featured in the 1974 James Bond movie "The Man with the Golden Gun."
There are many organised tours to this breathtaking location which include a stop at Koh Tapu and Khao Phing Kan with it's amazing vertical rocks. Most tours will also include a visit to Panyee Island, a floating Muslim village and kayaking through the Lot sea caves marvelling at the wonderous limestone formations.
Explore James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay
Panyee Island is unlike anything you've seen before in Thailand, it is an old Muslim community of around 1,600 people descended from 2 seafaring families that came from Java in the 18th Century.
Within the same period that they migrated here, the law that limited land ownership solely to people of Thai national origin went into effect, and in order to evade that, the community started building houses on stilts and continued to expand into the bay.
Today there is an entire community of over 360 families, complete with a mosque, a school and a football field all built on stilts. You will be astonished strolling around the maze that is the crisscrossing streets of Panyee Island discovering restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops.
Lot Cave is a collection of small caves that barely surface above the water under a large limestone mountain. It is a popular place to go kayaking around and sliding under these caves, full of amazing stalactites.
Some of the caves are extremely low and you will need to lie flat on your kayak in order to pass through. For us, the most exciting part was passing through an extremely small opening in pitch darkness to emerge into a small, quiet cavern illuminated by sunlight through the ceiling.
A day trip to Phang Nga Bay including a stop at James Bond Island is a favourite day out from Phuket, reserve your tour now with book now pay later here.
Explore the various options for this tour here
Alternatively, you may wish to experience James Bond Island on a luxury sunset cruise. Enjoy a beautiful sunset ocean panorama while having dinner on board.
Recommended: James Bond Island Luxury Sunset Cruise - Click Here
Attending a Thai cooking class can be a delightful hands on and immersive experience, allowing you to learn how to prepare some of Thailand's most iconic dishes while gaining insight into the country's culinary culture.
Attending a Thai cooking class is not only a chance to learn how to cook delicious dishes but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country's food culture and traditions. It's a fun and memorable experience that will allow you to bring a taste of Thailand back home with you forever!
Using the freshest ingredients, often sourced from a local market, you can discover the secrets behind a mouth-watering Green Curry, Tom Yum Soup, Pad Thai or some of the many other delicious Thai dishes. If you didn’t know already, Thai food is so amazing and learning how to cook a real Thai dish is a skill you can take home with you forever!
Attend a Thai Cooking Class
Phuket has it's very own rum distillery using sugar cane to produce a truly remarkable tasting rum.
Gin lover's don't panic, they also distill gin!
On offer are distillery visits and cocktail masterclasses set in a luxurious sugar cane garden.
Find out more about visiting here.
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery
Learning about the key ingredients used in Thai cooking will give you a valuable insight into the rich and varied flavours of some of Thailand's most popular dishes.
Not only will you learn how to cook delicious Thai dishes, but you will also get to savor your creations at the end of the class.
Don't miss this opportunity to uncover the art of Thai cooking and take a piece of Thailand home with you.
There are many different options for cooking classes available in Phuket, some also include a market or garden tour. Explore your options here.
Book your half day Easy Thai Cooking Class and Local Market Tour here
Don't want to cook? Book Southern Flavours Food Tour with 15+ Tastings for a taste sensation
As an alternative to cooking yourself or taking a sampling tour, try the Night Markets where you can sample delicicous street food, soak up the lively atmosphere and shop for souvenirs:
Sample Local Dishes at the Night Markets
Classic Street Food to look out for:
Pad krapao moo (stir fried pork with holy basil)
Moo ping (grilled pork)
Jok (rice porridge)
Khao man gai (chicken and rice)
Pad see ew (wide rice noodles)
Som tam (papaya salad)
Kuay tiao reua (boat noodles)
Khao ka moo (stewed/braised pork with rice)
Pad Thai (fried noodles)
Khao niao mamuang (sticky rice with mango)
Naka Market in Phuket town is one of the largest and most famous night markets on the island. It offers a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories, souvenirs and a huge selection of street food. It's a great place to shop for affordable gifts and enjoy local dishes - Saturday and Sunday 16.00-22.00.
Chilva Market in Phuket town is a vibrant and lively night market where visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and enjoy a variety of street food, artisan crafts and live entertainment. This bustling market features a diverse array of stalls offering everything from delicious Thai dishes to trendy fashion items, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Phuket's evening scene - Wednesday - Saturday 17.00-23.00.
On Sundays Old Phuket Town (Lard Yai - Walking Street) transforms into a charming walking street market, offering local products, handicrafts, and delicious street food - Sunday 16.00-21.00. On Saturdays, Thalang Road and Soi Romanee host a smaller version of the market, where you can also explore the Sino-Portuguese architecture of the area.
Watching the sunset at Promthep Cape is a popular and breathtaking experience in Phuket. Promthep Cape is also known as Laem Promthep and it is one of the island's most iconic viewpoints. It's elevated position with some small islands nearby make it a stunning backdrop for a sunset.
It is a beautiful place to enjoy the natural beauty of Phuket. This is where you will find the iconic palm trees. Remember to be respectful of the environment and other visitors to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable experience.
Watch the Sunset at Promthep Cape
This viewpoint also has a shrine surrounded by hundreds of elephant statues and carvings in all sizes and colours and the Lighthouse which is also a mini-museum.
There’s a line of colourful shops opposite the car park with reasonably priced clothing and souvenirs. You can also get cold drinks, coffee and snacks from here.
If you have the time you can take the short hike down to the end of the Cape.
You can read our Complete Guide to the Best Viewpoints in Phuket here
You can easily get to Promthep Cape with a motorbike, car or taxi or you may choose to take a guided tour.
Promthep Cape is a popular location for Instgram worthy photographs click here for more Instagram worthy locations.
Watching the sunrise at Samet Nangshe viewpoint in Phang Nga is a stunning experience. The viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Phang Nga Bay, with limestone karsts rising from the water and mangrove forests, creating a picturesque scene.
Samet Nangshe is just north of Phuket over the Sarasin Bridge. You can get there by motorbike, rental car or taxi.
Sunrise is the best time for photographs although at any time of day the view is spectacular.
Read our complete guide for everything you need to know about Samet Nangshe viewpoint
Watch Sunrise At Samet Nangshe Viewpoint
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Phuket Essential Infomation
Best time to visit Phuket - The best time to visit Phuket is during the months of November to February, which falls within the dry season. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant with mild temperatures and low humidity. It is an ideal time for beach activities and exploring the beautiful landscapes of the island. The sea is also calmer, making it perfect for snorkeling, diving, and other water sports. Additionally, this period coincides with several festive celebrations, such as Christmas and New Year, which add to the vibrant atmosphere of the island. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and activities. If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly experience, visiting during the shoulder seasons of March to May or September to October can be a good alternative.
How to get around in Phuket - Travelling around Phuket can be an enjoyable and convenient experience. Phuket is a popular tourist destination, and there are various transportation options available for getting around the island. Here are some common ways to travel around Phuket:
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Phuket, and you can either hail them on the street or ask your hotel to call one for you. Ensure the taxi driver uses a meter or agree on a fare before starting the journey. Check here for Airport transfers.
Tuk-Tuks: Tuk-tuks are three-wheeled vehicles commonly used for short trips. Always negotiate the fare in advance, as tuk-tuks typically don't have meters.
Motorbike Rentals: Renting a motorbike is a popular option for many travelers. It provides flexibility and is cost-effective. However, make sure you have the necessary exprience and a not only a motorcycle licence issued in your own country but also an valid international driver's permit. Remeber it is the law to wear a helmet and a T-shirt!
Car Rentals: Renting a car is another option if you prefer more comfort and privacy. Most major international car rental companies have offices in Phuket. Be aware of driving conditions and traffic rules.
Bicycles: Some tourists explore Phuket on bicycles. This is a great way to experience the island at a slower pace.
Songthaews: These are shared open-air minibuses that operate on fixed routes. They are an affordable way to get around, but they may not go to all tourist destinations.
Public Buses: Phuket has a limited public bus network, but it's not the most convenient option for tourists as the routes may not cover all the tourist areas.
Boats and Ferries: If you want to explore nearby islands or beaches, you can take boats and ferries. These are especially useful for reaching islands like Phi Phi or Similan.
Walking: If you're staying in a central area, many restaurants, shops, and attractions may be within walking distance.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Ride-sharing apps like Bolt and Grab are currently available in Phuket. Check if they are still operating and popular when you visit.
When using any transportation method in Phuket, be cautious about your personal safety. Ensure your belongings are secure, and negotiate fares in advance when necessary. Additionally, be aware of local traffic conditions and follow safety guidelines, especially if you're renting a motorbike or car.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.
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