One of the most popular temples of Phuket, Chalong Wat is an impressive building almost always flocked with devotees and tourists. Phuket houses numerous Buddhist temples dotted all across the island but the Wat Chalong remains the largest and the most striking in terms of architecture.
Big Buddha is a 45 m high statue of Buddha visible from miles away showcasing an impressive e work of craftsmanship and dedication. Nestled high up on the famous peak of Phuket above Chalong Bay, the 45 meters high Big Buddha or officially known, as Ming Mongkol is one of a major and newest tourist spot of the island.
Jui Tui Shrine is one of the most important temples in Phuket. It features red-washed exteriors and dragons constructed in honor of Tean Hu Huan Doy - the god of dancers and performers. Throughout the history of Phuket, the temple has been serving as a ground base for locals to celebrate the good and bad times. T firecracker house and fortune sticks are also located here.
The legendary Wat Phra Thong temple or the Golden Buddha Image Temple holds a special place in the hearts of the people because of its magical history. After being accidentally discovered, the beautiful temple and gardens had to be constructed around the majestic golden buddha because it just could not be moved!
The temple of Wat Khao Rang in Phuket is home to the majestic and famous sitting golden Buddha statue. Set amidst green hills, both tourists and locals often frequent this little temple with its quiet charm and beautiful view in the worship of Buddha.
The Wt Sri Suthon temple in Phuket is popular for its majestic recline Golden Buddha statue, the best view of which you get before entering the temple through the surrounding trees. The Buddha is believed to be in the Pang Sai Yat posture or the realizing Nirvana posture. The temple grounds also have many other interesting, eccentric statues pink elephants and the legendary Pret or demon ghost.
The Wat Phra Nang Sang is 545 years old, making it the oldest temple in Phuket. Literally translating to mean - temple built by a queen, this temple has beautiful golden statues of Buddha and murals depicting traditional Thai culture. The temple also has a large open ground, where the locals had fought to prevent a Burmese invasion many years ago.
The Wat Suwan Khiri Ket or the Karon temple is a colourful, attractive shrine located in Phuket. It has richly decorated and painted interiors depicting the life of the Buddha, with statues of huge coloured serpents and and other beasts erected in various places around the temple premises. Monks can often be found here in meditation, making it an ideal place for spending some time in quiet reflection.
Wat Sireh is located on Koh Sirey island in the east of Phuket. This rustic, remote temple hosts many golden Buddha idols, as well as one huge reclining Buddha. With its elevated floors, one has to climb a ladder to reach the sun-burnt little temple to enjoy its quiet serenity and solitude.
Also known as Samnak Song Nai Harn, the Wat Nai Harn on Nai Harn beach is a small Buddhist monastery. It is ideal for an early morning spiritual retreat, where you can see villagers coming with donations to seek blessings from the monks. It is the perfect start to your day, by being a part of this calm and holy atmosphere.
How many of these temples have you been to? Let us know in the comments below!