Welcome to the enchanting island of Phuket, a destination renowned not only for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife but also for its rich cultural heritage. Among the many treasures that await exploration, the temples of Phuket stand as captivating landmarks that offer a glimpse into the island’s spiritual and historical tapestry.
Chaithararam Temple
As the largest and most renowned temple on Phuket, commonly referred to as Wat Chalong, this sacred site boasts walls adorned with intricate paintings and posters depicting significant events in the life of Lord Buddha. The temple’s focal point is a towering 60-meter stupa, known as Chedi, believed to safeguard a fragment of Lord Buddha’s bone. Additionally, the grounds host numerous grand golden statues generously donated to Wat Chalong, so consider visiting if you happen to be staying at a place like Travelodge Phuket Town.
Wat Phra Thong
The renowned Wat Phra Thong, translating to the ‘Golden Buddha Image Temple,’ is an ancient and well-visited temple that captivates both tourists and locals alike. Its widespread popularity is attributed to the intriguing tale surrounding the iconic half-buried golden Buddha. The origin of this captivating story dates back to a boy who unknowingly tethered the rope of his buffalo to what turned out to be the conical peak of an immense Buddha image, mostly concealed beneath the ground.
Wat Koh Sirey
Situated atop a hill in the Koh Sirey district, Wat Koh Sirey graces the landscape of this petite island, covering a mere 20 square kilometres. Perched at an elevation, the temple treats visitors to a breathtaking panoramic vista overlooking Sapam Bay and Tukkae Cape. To reach the temple, ascend the 100 stairs adorned with a symphony of bells and dragon motifs. Upon arrival, you’ll encounter the Nakas Architecture Ordination Hall, showcasing a colossal reclining Buddha stretching over 18 meters in length. Additionally, the temple boasts a grand golden Kyaiktiyo Pagoda.
Wat Kathu
Image via Wikimedia Commons – Максим Улитин, Kammala, Kathu District, Phuket, Thailand – panoramio (173), CC BY 3.0
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Tucked away as a hidden gem in Phuket, Wat Kathu temple remains a local secret accessible by navigating over the hill from Patong towards Phuket Town. Despite its serene allure, the temple’s location, set far off from the main road, keeps it undiscovered by many. The vibrant golden and red structure stands in stark contrast to the lush green palm tree surroundings, creating an ideal setting for traditional Thai weddings. It’s also relatively close to many choices of family hotel in Phuket.