Phuket: The Big Buddha Phuket - Complete Guide
Read our complete guide to visiting the iconic Big Buddha of Phuket. The magnificent Big Buddha is a colossal marvel that not only graces the landscape but also captures the essence of tranquility, making it a must-visit destination for seekers of enlightenment. Find out how to receive a blessing and discover things to do at Big Buddha. Enjoy the stunning 360 degree panoramic views from on top of Mount Nakkerd.
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When planning a trip to Phuket, it is inevitable that the iconic Big Buddha will make its way onto your must-visit list. If it hasn’t already – add it now!
This incredible white marble statue, on top of Mount Nakkerd near Chalong, is visible from most parts of south Phuket and is one of Phuket’s top attractions. Although the statue is a beautiful attraction in its own right, another reason to visit is the stunning 360 degree panoramic views from on top of Mount Nakkerd!
The Big Buddha is the third-tallest statue in Thailand behind the Great Buddha of Thailand and Luangpho Yai. The statue is made of concrete and covered with Burmese white marble and is 45 metres tall and 25.45 metres wide. Construction started in 2002 and is ongoing.
The complete name of the Big Buddha in Phuket is “Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Akenakiri“, which translates to “The Cherished Auspicious Lord Buddha atop Nāga Hill”.The Big Buddha is a popular religious landmark for both Thai’s and tourists, with over 1,000 people visiting the impressive monument on a good day.
How To Get There
Reaching The Big Buddha is fairly easy, the roads are well maintained and many tourists choose to drive there by car or motorbike or by taking a taxi.
If you decide to drive, whether by car or by scooter; it is essential to have an idea of the distance from where you are staying on the island to where the Big Buddha is located:
Patong to Big Buddha: 23km
Phuket Town to Big Buddha: 17km
Nai Harn to Big Buddha: 15km
Rawai to Big Buddha: 10km
Kata to Big Buddha: 13km
Tip: the cheapest way to get to the Big Buddha is by renting a scooter, around 200THB per day. (Make sure you have a motorbike license from your own Country and an International Driving Permit, remember to wear a helmet and a T-shirt – It’s the law!)
Tours
Explore over 10 tours with validated reviews. Hotel pickup included, multi-lingual guides and free cancellation.
You can also book an organized tour with the benefit of a tour guide and visiting other famous destinations such as Wat Chalong, Phuket Town and the Promthep Cape.
Check all of the different options for visiting Big Buddha - Click here
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 families who seek an exhilarating way to explore Phuket’s natural beauty and cultural significance.
Reserve your ATV tour now and pay later - Click here
Walking / Hiking: There are also two ways to walk up to The Big Buddha.
The first option is to walk up the main road leading to The Big Buddha, beginning at Chaofah Road East, Chalong. Many people choose to run or walk this route this route solely for fitness, training and to challenge themselves. Walking this route gives you the opportunity to see some fantastic views over Chalong Bay and Karon Beach from the roadside and check out some scenic restaurants. If you go early, you will see the elephants still at rest and their mahouts gathering their foods. The distance is 5.7km and the elevation is 367m.
If you’re more adventurous and want to earn those breathtaking views, it’s also possible to hike to the Big Buddha from Kata. You can start your hike anywhere in Kata but the uphill climb starts in Soi Patak 14 and the top is 1.7km from there. It is a beautiful and challenging route. Some of the steep ascents are supported by ropes. Remember to take water, insect repellant and wear proper footwear.
Dress Code and Opening Times
The Big Buddha opens from 06.00 – 18.30 daily. There is no entrance fee but donations towards ongoing contractions and maintenance are appreciated.
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.
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When is the best time to visit the Big Buddha?
As the Big Buddha is open from 06.00 – 18.30 it is accessible during both sunrise and sunset time. Opening times may vary during public holidays.
If you would prefer visiting this beautiful location when it is less crowded, sunrise is an idyllic and peaceful time to visit. We would recommend arriving no later than 06.15 to catch the majestic glow of the sun rising.
If you are not a morning person – do not worry! The Big Buddha is just as stunning throughout the day.
What To Do At Big Buddha
The Big Buddha is an active Temple, meaning you will often hear services and melodic chanting. Be aware of your surroundings, be respectful and do not cause disruptions during your visit.
Enjoy the views over Chalong Bay, Kata Noi Bay and Kata Bay. If you are lucky and the skies are clear, you can spot Phang Nga Bay, just beyond Chalong Bay, and possibly the Windmill at Promthep Cape.
There is a one-way system in place: Use the 94 step sweeping staircase leading up to the Big Buddha, once you have finished in this area there is a separate staircase leading down to the temple underneath the Big Buddha and the exit. There is a security guard is on duty to remind visitors comply with this policy. Don’t worry if you missed a ‘selfie’, you can go back up the main stairway again. There are usually monkeys around the descending staircase so hold on to your possessions as they can grab loose items.
Try rubbing one of the gongs with your hands, if it “sings” it means you have a pure soul.
At quieter times it is possible to get blessed by one of the many monks at the temple. If you get the opportunity to be blessed by a monk, remember to be courteous and treat them with respect, deliver a Wai (a traditional Thai greeting) to them, and if you are a woman in particular, do not touch them as it is highly inappropriate in Thai culture. Remember to make a donation in return for the blessing and a small bracelet.
Remember to remove shoes before entering the Big Buddha, a courtesy in Thai culture when entering any active temples. And do not point your feet towards Big Buddha as it is regarded as highly offensive. The feet are viewed as the dirtiest and lowest point of the body, so the soles in particular should never be pointed at anyone, especially a monk.
You can make a wish with the 32 monk's alms bowls for good luck and healthy 32 organs. Make a donation for a small pot containing 32 coins and deposit one into each bowl.
You can purchase a small gold coloured disc for THB100 and write a few words then hang it in a tree.
Amulets are available for purchase or can buy a small marble tile, inscribe it with a marker pen and this will be used for the continuing building work. For those feeling a bit more generous, donations can also be made for the upkeep and maintenance of the Temple.
The Temple also functions as a museum depicting how the Big Buddha was constructed which is a great way to learn more about the local culture.
There are plenty of kiosks selling cold drinks and snacks and there are toilets on the lower level.
You will probably spend an hour at Big Buddha.
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