Phuket Thailand Travel Guide A Vagabond Life
Travelling to Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, unveils a world where vibrant nightlife, serene beaches, and rich cultural heritage coalesce into an unforgettable tropical getaway. Renowned for its stunning coastline, Phuket caters to every kind of traveller, from those seeking the solitude of hidden beaches like Banana Rock Beach to party-goers drawn to the pulsating energy of Patong Beach. The island’s interior is just as compelling, with lush rainforests and mountains offering a perfect backdrop for adventure activities, such as hiking and zip-lining.
Phuket’s cultural tapestry is vividly displayed in its historic old town, characterized by Sino-Portuguese architecture, bustling markets, and colorful shophouses. The local cuisine, a blend of Thai and Chinese influences, promises a gastronomic journey with dishes like Mee Hokkien noodles and fresh seafood.
Moreover, Phuket serves as a gateway to the enchanting islands of the Andaman Sea, making it an ideal starting point for island-hopping excursions. Whether it’s exploring the majestic Phi Phi Islands or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Similan Islands, Phuket provides a base for diverse experiences, embodying the beauty and spirit of Thailand.
Phuket Thailand Map
Getting To Phuket Thailand
By Air
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is the primary gateway to the island, handling both domestic and international flights. The airport is located about 32 kilometers (20 miles) north of Phuket Town. Major airlines connect Phuket with key cities across Asia, including Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Hong Kong, as well as other international destinations.
- From Bangkok: Multiple daily flights operate between Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Phuket. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hours.
- From Other International Cities: Direct flights are available from various international hubs. Travel times vary depending on the departure city.
By Land
For those traveling from mainland Thailand, Phuket can be reached by bus or car. The island is connected to the mainland by the Sarasin Bridge.
- By Bus: Buses run regularly from Bangkok and other major cities to Phuket Town. The journey from Bangkok takes about 12-14 hours.
- By Car: Driving to Phuket is feasible via Route 4, which links Phuket with other southern Thai provinces. The drive from Bangkok takes approximately 10-12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
By Ferry
Phuket is accessible by ferry from nearby islands and coastal towns. Ferries regularly operate from Krabi, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phi Phi.
- From Krabi: The ferry ride to Phuket typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.
- From Koh Phi Phi: Ferries from Koh Phi Phi to Phuket take about 2 hour
Getting Around Phuket Thailand
By Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services:
- Taxis: Phuket has a fleet of metered taxis, although many operate on a fixed-rate basis. It’s advisable to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
- Ride-Hailing Apps: Services like Grab and Bolt are popular in Phuket and offer a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
By Tuk-Tuk:
- Tuk-Tuks: These are a common and fun way to get around Phuket. They are ideal for short trips and are often found around tourist areas. Always agree on the fare before starting your ride.
By Rental Car or Motorbike:
- Car Rentals: Renting a car offers flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. Numerous rental agencies are available at the airport and throughout Phuket.
- Motorbike Rentals: Motorbikes are a popular choice for solo travelers and couples. They provide easy access to local attractions and are generally more affordable. Ensure you have a valid motorcycle license and wear a helmet for safety.
By Public Bus:
- Local Buses: Phuket’s public bus system, known as the “Phuket Smart Bus,” operates routes connecting major areas like Patong, Phuket Town, and the airport. It’s a cost-effective way to travel around the island.
By Boat:
- Boats: For island-hopping and exploring nearby islands like the Phi Phi Islands and James Bond Island, boat tours and charter services are readily available. Tours often include snorkeling, sightseeing, and lunch options.
By Bicycle:
- Bicycles: Cycling is a great way to explore Phuket’s scenic areas and enjoy the local environment. Bicycle rentals are available in tourist areas, and some hotels provide bikes for their guests.
Overall, Phuket offers a variety of transportation options to suit different preferences and needs, making it easy to explore this beautiful island and its surrounding attractions.
Things To See & Do In Phuket Thailand
Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga Bay, located in southern Thailand, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and dramatic landscapes. This picturesque bay is part of the Andaman Sea and is situated between the mainland of Thailand and the island of Phuket. The bay is famed for its striking limestone karsts, which rise dramatically from the turquoise waters, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring seascape. These towering rock formations are a result of millions of years of geological activity, and their unique shapes have become iconic symbols of the region.
One of the bay’s most famous landmarks is James Bond Island, known for its role in the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun. The island, officially named Koh Tapu, is a popular tourist destination and is often visited by boat tours that explore the bay’s numerous caves, lagoons, and hidden coves. Another notable site in Phang Nga Bay is Koh Panyee, a floating village built on stilts by Muslim fishermen. The village offers a fascinating glimpse into local life and is a popular stop for visitors wanting to experience traditional Thai culture and cuisine.
Phang Nga Bay is also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Kayaking is a popular activity, allowing visitors to navigate through the bay’s serene waters and explore its many grottoes and mangrove forests. The bay’s rich marine life, including various species of fish and birds, makes it an excellent spot for wildlife watching. Additionally, the surrounding natural environment is perfect for hiking and trekking, offering breathtaking views of the bay and its dramatic landscape.
The best time to visit Phang Nga Bay is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is generally sunny and calm. This period is ideal for enjoying the bay’s natural beauty and engaging in outdoor activities. The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rains and rough seas, which can make travel and exploration more challenging. Despite this, the bay’s lush landscapes and dramatic scenery can still be appreciated during the rainy season, though visitors should be prepared for unpredictable weather.
Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi Island, an enchanting archipelago in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant marine life. Comprising six islands, the most famous are Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. Located about 40 kilometers southeast of Phuket, these islands are celebrated for their dramatic limestone cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and pristine sandy beaches.
Phi Phi Don is the largest and most developed of the islands, known for its lively atmosphere and extensive range of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget bungalows. The island’s main village, Ton Sai Bay, serves as the hub for tourism, offering a bustling scene with numerous bars, restaurants, and shops. Despite its popularity, Phi Phi Don retains its charm with beautiful beaches such as Patong Beach and Ao Ton Sai, where visitors can relax and soak up the sun.
Phi Phi Leh, on the other hand, is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty and more remote, pristine environment. The island gained worldwide fame as the filming location for the 2000 movie The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Maya Bay, the stunning cove featured in the film, is known for its spectacular setting, surrounded by steep cliffs and clear blue waters. Although Maya Bay was closed for a period to allow its ecosystem to recover from over-tourism, it has since reopened with new regulations to help preserve its natural beauty.
The Phi Phi Islands offer a wide range of activities for visitors. Snorkeling and diving are top attractions, with the surrounding waters rich in coral reefs and diverse marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. For adventure seekers, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding provide opportunities to explore the islands’ secluded coves and hidden lagoons. Hiking trails on Phi Phi Don offer panoramic views of the islands, particularly from the viewpoint located on a hilltop.
The best time to visit Phi Phi Island is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is warm, and the seas are calm, ideal for beach activities and water sports. The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rains and rough seas, which can affect travel plans and limit some outdoor activities. Despite this, the islands’ lush landscapes and vibrant green scenery can be quite appealing during the rainy season for those who don’t mind occasional downpours.
Big Buddha Chalong
The Big Buddha of Chalong is one of Phuket’s most iconic landmarks, towering majestically at 45 meters tall. Located on Nakkerd Hill, this impressive statue stands prominently above Chalong Bay, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. The Big Buddha is not only a significant religious monument but also a symbol of peace and tranquility for locals and visitors alike.
The statue, constructed from reinforced concrete and covered in white Burmese marble, depicts Buddha in a meditative pose, symbolizing enlightenment and serenity. The construction of the Big Buddha began in 2004 and was completed in 2015. Its serene presence and intricate details make it a focal point for spiritual reflection and a popular destination for tourists seeking both cultural enrichment and scenic vistas.
Visitors to the Big Buddha can enjoy a serene atmosphere as they explore the surrounding area. The site includes a small temple and a spacious platform where visitors can walk around the statue and take in the panoramic views of Phuket’s lush landscapes and coastline. The site is adorned with intricate decorations, including smaller Buddha statues, colorful mosaics, and inscriptions offering blessings and well-wishes.
In addition to its spiritual significance, the Big Buddha serves as a center for local cultural activities and ceremonies. The area around the monument is often used for religious gatherings and traditional Thai festivals, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the island’s cultural practices.
The best time to visit the Big Buddha is during the cooler months from November to April, when the weather is pleasant and clear, allowing for the best views of the surrounding landscape. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can also offer a more tranquil experience, with fewer crowds and a beautiful light for photography. The site is open daily, and visitors are asked to dress modestly as a sign of respect for the sacred nature of the monument.
Similan Islands Phang Nga
Similan Islands Phang Nga
The stunning Similan Islands are surrounded by amazingly clear blue seas and pristine white-sand beaches. Heaven for island-hoppers and scuba divers, the nine islands are about 30 km off the coast of Khaolak. They are ranked among the best dive sites in the world for their lively and colourful coral reefs and perfect visibility. For non-divers, the famous Sailing Boat Rock is on Similan No. 8 and is an iconic feature of this must-see archipelago.
Top 5 Similian Islands
Koh Similan (Island No. 8): The largest and most famous island in the Similan Islands archipelago, known for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Koh Miang (Island No. 4): A picturesque island offering pristine beaches, lush jungle trails, and abundant wildlife, including colorful bird species and monitor lizards. It’s also home to a national park ranger station and camping facilities.
Koh Payu (Island No. 7): A smaller island characterized by its unique rock formations and vibrant coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling and underwater photography.
Koh Ba Ngu (Island No. 9): Renowned for its breathtaking underwater scenery, including colorful coral gardens, submerged boulders, and diverse marine life, making it a favorite spot for scuba diving enthusiasts.
Koh Ha (Island No. 5): A secluded island known for its pristine beaches, hidden coves, and tranquil waters, providing an idyllic setting for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking in the shade of lush vegetation.
Phuket Beaches
Phuket Beaches
With more than 30 to choose from, the island is famous for its beaches. There’s a lot of variety available, ranging from little secluded coves to long and lively shores. Most of the best beaches in Phuket are along the west coast. They offer beautiful sunsets, along with their soft white sands and clean blue seas
Top 5 Phuket Beaches
Patong Beach: Phuket’s most famous beach, known for its vibrant nightlife, bustling atmosphere, and wide range of water sports activities.
Kata Beach: A picturesque bay with soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, popular among families and surfers alike for its gentle waves and scenic surroundings.
Karon Beach: Stretching over three kilometers, Karon Beach offers a peaceful retreat from the crowds of Patong, with ample space for sunbathing, swimming, and beachside dining.
Surin Beach: A favorite among locals and expats, Surin Beach boasts powdery white sand, calm waters, and a laid-back ambiance, perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun.
Nai Harn Beach: Nestled in a scenic bay surrounded by lush hills, Nai Harn Beach is renowned for its pristine beauty and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying spectacular sunsets.
Night Markets
Phuket has an large selection of night markets to choose from. Each has its own unique charms, but all offer interesting souvenirs at low prices. They are an excellent place to try local street food and snacks, and some also have street performances and music. Being open in the evenings means that you don’t get too hot while getting your shopping fix.
Top 5 Markets of Phuket
Phuket Weekend Market (Naka Market): One of the largest night markets on the island, offering a vast array of goods including clothing, accessories, handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food.
Phuket Walking Street (Lard Yai): Located in the Old Town area, this lively night market showcases local food stalls, cultural performances, and a variety of unique products such as handmade crafts and antiques.
Chillva Market: A trendy night market featuring a blend of modern and traditional elements, with hipster-style shops, live music, art installations, and a diverse range of food vendors.
Malin Plaza Patong: Situated in the heart of Patong Beach, this bustling night market offers a vibrant atmosphere, live entertainment, and an extensive selection of street food stalls serving both local Thai dishes and international cuisine.
Phuket Indy Market: A popular spot among locals and tourists alike, this night market boasts a laid-back vibe, with a focus on handmade goods, vintage clothing, and authentic Thai street food.
Wat Chalong and Phuket Temples
Wat Chalong, officially known as Wat Chaiyathararam, is the largest and most revered Buddhist temple on Phuket Island. Located in the Chalong Bay area, this temple complex is a significant spiritual center and a major attraction for visitors interested in Thai culture and religion.
Historical Significance: The temple was established in the early 19th century and has undergone several renovations over the years. It is dedicated to two highly respected monks, Luang Pho Cham and Luang Pho Chuang, who played crucial roles in aiding the local community during a turbulent period in Phuket’s history.
Architectural Features: The temple’s main hall, or ubosot, is an impressive structure adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals depicting scenes from the life of Buddha. The central stupa, or chedi, houses relics of the Buddha and is a focal point of the temple’s complex. The grand pagoda is beautifully decorated with gold leaf and features elaborate, colorful mosaics.
Cultural Experience: Visitors can witness various religious ceremonies and rituals at Wat Chalong. The temple grounds are also home to several smaller shrines and statues, including a large bronze statue of Luang Pho Cham. The serene environment provides a peaceful setting for meditation and reflection.
Visiting Tips: Dress modestly when visiting Wat Chalong, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect. The temple is open daily, and it is best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Phuket Temples
Phuket Island is home to several notable temples, each offering a unique glimpse into Thai religious practices and cultural heritage. Here are some of the most prominent ones:
Wat Phra Thong:
- Location: Situated in the northern part of Phuket.
- Significance: Known as the “Golden Buddha Temple,” it features a half-buried statue of Buddha, which is said to have been discovered by a local farmer. The legend associated with the statue adds to its mystique and significance.
Wat Srisoonthorn:
- Location: Located in Thalang, Phuket.
- Significance: Also known as Wat Lipon, this temple is famous for its impressive 60-meter-long reclining Buddha statue. The temple is less frequented by tourists, offering a more tranquil experience.
Wat Khao Rang:
- Location: Perched on Khao Rang Hill, near Phuket Town.
- Significance: This temple offers panoramic views of Phuket Town and the surrounding area. It features a large white Buddha statue and a serene atmosphere, ideal for contemplation and photo opportunities.
Wat Mongkol Nimit:
- Location: In Phuket Town.
- Significance: This temple is known for its vibrant murals and traditional Thai architectural style. It plays an important role in the local community and hosts various religious events throughout the year.
Wat Chalong:
- Location: Chalong Bay, Phuket.
- Significance: As mentioned above, Wat Chalong is the largest and most important temple on the island. It is central to Phuket’s spiritual life and attracts many visitors and worshippers.
Each of these temples provides a unique insight into Thai Buddhism and culture, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the island’s rich spiritual heritage and enjoy peaceful, scenic environments.
Old Phuket Town
Old Phuket Town, the historical heart of Phuket City, offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s colonial past and its cultural fusion. Located on the west coast of Phuket Island, this area is known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant street life, and rich history.
Historical Significance: Established in the 19th century, Old Phuket Town developed as a major trading hub during the tin boom. The wealth generated from the tin mining industry led to the construction of grand Sino-Portuguese buildings, which still characterize the area today. This blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles reflects Phuket’s historical role as a melting pot of cultures.
Architectural Features: Walking through Old Phuket Town, visitors encounter a colorful array of buildings featuring ornate facades, decorative tiles, and intricate wrought ironwork. The Sino-Portuguese architecture is particularly notable for its blend of European and Asian influences, with vibrant pastel colors and decorative details. Key streets, such as Thalang Road, Dibuk Road, and Krabi Road, showcase the best examples of this architectural style.
Cultural Attractions: The area is home to several cultural landmarks, including:
- The Phuket Thai Hua Museum: Housed in a historical building, this museum offers exhibits on Phuket’s history and cultural heritage, focusing on the island’s Chinese immigrant communities.
- Jui Tui Shrine: A prominent Taoist temple, known for its intricate carvings and vibrant festivals, including the annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival.
- Baba Museum: Showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to the Baba-Nyonya heritage, a result of the intermarriage between Chinese immigrants and Malays.
Dining and Shopping: Old Phuket Town is a hub for culinary delights and shopping. The area features a range of restaurants and street food vendors offering traditional Thai and international cuisine. Local markets and boutique shops sell everything from handicrafts and antiques to contemporary fashion and souvenirs.
Events and Festivals: The town hosts various cultural events throughout the year. The Phuket Old Town Festival, typically held in January or February, celebrates the local heritage with parades, traditional performances, and food stalls. The Phuket Vegetarian Festival, held in October, is another major event, renowned for its colorful processions and religious rituals.
Visiting Tips: Exploring Old Phuket Town is best done on foot to fully appreciate the architecture and ambiance. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for avoiding the heat and crowds. The area is also easily accessible by tuk-tuk, motorbike, or car, and many of the buildings are now converted into boutique hotels, cafes, and shops, providing a convenient base for exploring the town.
