Imagine standing at the base of a monumental statue, so vast and serene it seems to capture the very essence of tranquility and wisdom.
This is no ordinary sightseeing spot; this is the Big Buddha Phuket, the iconic white statue on the beautiful island of Phuket in Thailand.
I have visited several Buddha statues across Asia, and this site is one of those places where you can truly feel the tranquility of the surroundings.
In this guide, I will cover the dress code, entrance fee, and other important tips you need to know before visiting the Big Buddha.
I will also compare the different ways to get there, including driving, hiking, or even using an ATV.
Lastly, I will share how you can truly experience Phuket Phuket by meditating inside or experiencing the serenity across its stunning sunset spots!
Big Buddha Phuket History
The Big Buddha statue in Phuket, officially known as Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Akenakakiri or simply Ming Mongkol Buddha, translates to “the gloriously honorable Buddha on the top of the hill of Naga“.
It was built in 2004 as a symbol of hope, spirituality, and shared values for the people.
The statue is 45 meters tall and spans 25 meters at the base, and it was built entirely with donations from locals and foreigners.
You can contribute to its ongoing construction and maintenance by making donations at the nearby boxes or purchasing a marble tile with suggested donations starting at 100 baht.
How old is Big Buddha Phuket?
This 2024, the Big Buddha in Phuket is celebrating its 20 years since it was built.
Big Buddha Phuket Entry Price
You can visit Big Buddha Phuket for free. There is no such thing as Phuket Big Buddha tickets. If someone is offering one, politely refuse.
The site is open to all visitors who are interested in exploring its cultural and religious importance.
The temple and the surrounding grounds are properly maintained through donations.
While admission is free, it is highly appreciated when visitors make a small contribution towards the maintenance and upkeep of the site.
Big Buddha Phuket Parking
We visited the Big Buddha with our scooter and there is enough parking for both cars and scooters near the base of the statue.
The parking space is also free. A guard will point you to a spot to park. Unless you are visiting at a hectic time, expect a well-organized parking area and a hassle-free start to your visit.
Big Buddha Phuket Opening Hours and Timings
The Big Buddha Phuket is open from 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily. Opening times may change during public holidays.
Best time to go to Big Buddha Phuket
The best times to visit the Big Buddha in Phuket are early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
In the morning, before 6:15 AM, you can witness a breathtaking sunrise or meditate with fewer tourists around.
Not a morning person? Visit before 6:00 PM and enjoy stunning sunset views.
It’s best to avoid visiting around noon when the sun is at its peak and the heat can be unbearable.
How long to spend at Big Buddha Phuket
One hour is enough to walk up the statue, visit the temple, meditate inside, and even enjoy the viewpoint.
Big Buddha Phuket Dress Code
As you visit the Big Buddha in Phuket, remember to dress respectfully.
This is a religious site, and cultural norms must be observed. Here is a guide on what to wear:
Big Buddha Dress code: Men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders, arms, and knees and loose-fitting.
- Dress Code for females: No tank top, cropped, see-through clothes, mini-skirts, and shorts. If you’re wearing any of this, you have to use a scarf to wear over it and a shawl to cover the waist.
- Dress Code for males: Not wearing a shirt is not allowed.
Footwear: It is necessary to remove shoes before entering the temple. Wear easily removable footwear, such as sandals or flip-flops, that are also sturdy and comfortable enough for the climb and steps, especially if you’re doing a hike to get there.
Hats and Sunglasses: Wearing a hat and sunglasses can help protect you from the sun. Definition, one of the must-haves clothing in Thailand. However, it is customary to remove them when entering temple buildings.
Carry a Scarf: If you are not wearing clothing that covers your shoulders or knees, carry a scarf or shawl that you can use as a cover when needed. Free shawls are available at the entrance.
No Swimwear: In temple areas, wearing swimwear or revealing clothing is disrespectful.
If you come from a nearby beach, bring your Big Buddha Phuket clothing and change for your temple visit.
Avoid Heavy Perfumes: Go easy on strong perfumes to ensure a peaceful visit for everyone. While it is not mandatory, it is a consideration to avoid distracting others with strong fragrances.
Remember the time when all you could focus on was the strong scent you smelled?
Where is Big Buddha Phuket Located?
The Big Buddha in Phuket sits on the top of Nakkerd Hill between Chalong and Kata. This elevated location not only provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for the statue but also offers panoramic views of the island.
If you stay in Kata and Chalong, you’ll see this giant figure that stands as a symbol of spirituality and scenic beauty.
How to Get to the Big Buddha Phuket
There are plenty of ways to get to the Big Buddha. The roads to the statue are well-maintained and paved so you can expect a smooth drive depending on where you are coming from.
Driving via car or motorbike
We drove to the Big Buddha on a motorbike and found the site easy to navigate using signposts and Google Maps. There’s ample parking space available for both cars and scooters near the entrance.
PRO TIP: Renting a scooter is the cheapest way to get to the Big Buddha, at around 200THB ($5.6) per day. However, you’ll need to drive uphill for a long time, so make sure you’re confident in your driving abilities.
By Taxi, Tuk-Tuk, or Grab/Bolt
If you’re not confident driving, consider taking a taxi, tuk-tuk, or booking with Grab or Bolt. Make sure to negotiate and agree on the fare beforehand to avoid any surprises. Drivers are generally familiar with the destination and can provide insights during the journey.
PRO TIP: Book your ride to your accommodation before it gets dark because most taxi and tuk-tuk drivers would be hesitant to accept a booking going to the top of the hill at night.
By Bus
Phuket’s local buses and songthaews (converted pick-up trucks serving as shared taxis) can also get you relatively close to the Big Buddha, although they’re more challenging to navigate.
From Phuket Town, take the bus to Karon and alight at the turning to the Chalong Chalet Resort & Longstay before you reach Kata Beach. From there, it takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to walk 5.2 km to the statue.
Guided Tours
If you’re only in Phuket for a few days, consider joining a guided tour that includes the Big Buddha along with other attractions in Phuket. Joining a tour can help you divide the transportation cost and maximize the places you can visit in a short time.
Plus, learning more about history and culture from your knowledgeable guides is fun and meaningful. Who knows, you might also find cool new friends on these tours.
Here are some of the best Big Buddha Phuket tours:
🤩 Get 5% off on these Big Buddha Tours with code “GLADISKLOOK”
Hiking
If you’re up for adventure and want to earn those breathtaking views, it’s also possible to hike to the Big Buddha in Phuket.
There are two trails leading up to the statue. The first and longer Big Buddha Phuket trail is from the main road of Chaofah Road, Chalong, which offers exceptional views and an opportunity to visit some scenic restaurants.
This route is around 9 km long and takes around 2 and a half hours to complete.
Alternatively, you could take the hillside route, starting opposite Baan Karon Resort, on Patak Road, Karon Beach. The climb is approximately 2.5 km and takes about an hour with rest breaks.
It’s a moderately challenging hike, with one short and steep section that’s slippery and requires the use of ropes.
Both trails can be taken going up and down.
PRO TIP: whichever route you choose, make sure you’re well-prepared with adequate water, sun protection, and suitable footwear (at least running shoes with good grip), and try to start early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Big Buddha Phuket Trail Map
Want to hike with a group? Join this Big Buddha Phuket hike tour.
ATV to Big Buddha
A unique way to reach the Big Buddha is via ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle). Perfect for those looking for a bit of thrill while exploring the island.
Tours include a short course on safety briefings and equipment, making it a fun and secure experience for all skill levels. Just remember to book with a reputable tour operator like this one to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
How many steps to Big Buddha Phuket?
There are 94 steps to climb up to the Big Buddha in Phuket, and you cannot go down these stairs.
On the way down, you’ll see boxes for donations for the construction, where you can buy amulets, and where monks hold ceremonies.
Then you’ll see the viewing point for – Phuket town, three bays (Phuket Town, Kata, Karon, Chalong Bay), and some islands.
How long does it take to walk up the Big Buddha Phuket?
You can walk up to the statue in less than 3 minutes. However, take your time to appreciate the statue and experience the serenity of the place.
I even walk up the statue twice. Just note that you can not walk down the same stairs. Walk down at the back and from there, you’ll see the Big Buddha Phuket viewpoint.
Best Things to Do at Big Buddha Phuket
Visiting the Big Buddha in Phuket offers an opportunity to dive deeper into spirituality or enjoy the 360-degree views of the island. Here are some of the best things to do:
- Explore the Big Buddha Statue: This Burmese white marble statue is not only a spiritual landmark but also an architectural marvel. I was in awe looking at it from afar on our motorbike, up to the time we saw it up close.
- Enjoy the Panoramic Views: The site provides breathtaking views of Phuket and the Andaman Sea. It’s a perfect spot for photography, enjoying stunning sunsets, and slowing down to take in the beauty of Phuket.
- Visit the Smaller Buddha Statues: Surrounding the main Big Buddha are several smaller statues, each with its own significance, offering a quieter space for reflection and admiration.
- Participate in a Meditation Session: Inside the temple, you’ll see tarpaulins with printed sayings about meditation from famous personalities like Carl Jung and Albert Einstein. There’s also a guide for a 7-minute happy meditation, which I highly encourage you to try!
- Learn About the History and Construction: Around the site, you’ll also find details about the history of the Big Buddha, its construction, and its importance to the local community. Learning more about the history of a place helps us appreciate it even more.
- Make a Donation for Good Luck: At the exit of the temple, you’ll see donation boxes. Contributing to the maintenance and ongoing development of the site through a donation is believed to bring good luck, in addition to supporting this important cultural landmark.
- Shop for Souvenirs: Small shops and stalls near the entrance sell a variety of souvenirs, from handcrafted items to religious artifacts, allowing you to take a piece of your experience home.
Restaurants near Big Buddha Phuket
There are some small food and drink vendors located in the car park before the entrance. However, we recommend instead that you stop by the sea-view restaurants below for breathtaking views. All are within 8 minutes away on the way to Nakkerd Hill.
Very important: Please refrain from feeding the monkeys around the Big Buddha. The groundkeepers work hard to keep the monkeys away from visitors, so it’s best not to interact with them.
- Authentic Thai Food: This traditional Thai restaurant has received an impressive 5-star rating 86 times and counting! The owner, Madam Nong, prepares homemade authentic Thai food with fresh local ingredients and time-honored recipes, filled with love. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Thailand and food made with love, this is the place to go.
- Star Mountain Sunset Restaurant: Famous for its breathtaking views, Star Mountain Sunset Restaurant offers diners a picturesque backdrop to enjoy a diverse menu of local and international dishes.
- Big Buddha Art Cafe & Restaurant: This small and cozy restaurant and cafe features artistic surroundings and serves a variety of delicious Thai and international cuisine. Please note that some of their juices are not freshly squeezed, but their Thai Tea Espresso is to die for!
- The Dreaming Tree Phuket: If you’re looking for a peaceful dining atmosphere, The Dreaming Tree Phuket is the place to go. It’s known for its health-conscious menu, vegetarian and vegan options, and uncomplicated, delicious, and nutritious food, all cooked with love.
- Our Cafe Our Cafe is a charming spot where you can relax on bean bags after you visit Big Buddha Phuket. It offers a delightful selection of coffee, light bites, and smoothies, with a view of the lush surroundings of Phuket, Thailand.
What to Do Near Big Buddha Phuket
After visiting Big Buddha, there are plenty of other attractions and activities to explore throughout the day. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Wat Chalong: Phuket’s most important Buddhist temple, Wat Chalong is a must-visit destination for those who love intricate art, grand pagodas, and a serene atmosphere that reflects Thailand’s spiritual heritage.
- Promthep Cape: This natural wonder is known for offering some of the most breathtaking sunsets on the island, where the sky and sea meet in a spectacular display of colors. We visited this place after Big Buddha and were truly amazed by the stunning views.
- Phuket Old Town: With its colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings, Phuket Old Town is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and delicious local food, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage.
- Karon Viewpoint: Often referred to as the Three Beaches Hill, Karon Viewpoint offers stunning panoramic views of Kata Noi, Kata Yai, and Karon beaches. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
- Nai Harn Beach: This secret beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, making it an ideal destination for swimming and sunbathing.
Read next: The most beautiful beaches in Phuket
Where to Stay in Phuket
Looking for the best hotels, condominiums, and resorts in Phuket? Here are some of the best options available:
Karon Beach Condo: This is where we stayed for a month in Phuket. Located near Karon Beach, this condo offers a comfortable and convenient stay with modern amenities such as spacious rooms, a gym, and an outdoor swimming pool.
We love its proximity to the beach, Thai restaurants, and the homey feeling it provides for remote work and fitness.
Lady Naya Villas: This boutique villa resort is perfect for couples and families who want to stay in a peaceful setting. Lady Naya Villas offers private pools, modern Thai decor, and attentive service, providing an intimate atmosphere for a relaxing stay.
Stay Wellbeing & Lifestyle Resort: If you’re looking for a world-class wellness and luxury experience, Stay Wellbeing & Lifestyle Resort is the perfect option.
This resort emphasizes holistic well-being, offering guests a range of health-focused amenities, including fitness classes, wellness programs, and nutritious dining options.
🤩 Stay in the BEST hotels in Phuket – take 5% off with code “GLADISKLOOK”
FAQs: The Big Buddha in Phuket
Can you wear slippers to Big Buddha Phuket?
Slippers are generally acceptable, especially for the stair climb, as it is customary to remove your shoes before entering any active temple. And remember to not point your feet towards the Big Buddha as it is considered highly offensive.
Also note that you need to be prepared for a good amount of walking and stair climbing, so comfortable and sturdy footwear is recommended.
Are There Toilets at Big Buddha Phuket?
Yes, there are toilet facilities available at Big Buddha Phuket. There is one toilet at the top with Big Buddha and another one on your way out at the souvenir shop. However, please note that you need to bring your own toilet paper.
What should I bring to Big Buddha?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat or sunscreen for protection against the sun, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees to adhere to the dress code, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
How long do you need at Big Buddha Phuket?
You need 1-2 hours for your visit to Big Buddha Phuket. This gives you enough time to explore the statue, enjoy the panoramic views, meditate, and soak in the serene atmosphere of the site.
Where is the biggest Buddha in Thailand?
The tallest Buddha statue in Thailand is the Great Buddha of Thailand, also known as the Wat Muang Buddha, located in Ang Thong Province. This statue stands 92 meters (approximately 300 feet) in height and 63 meters (about 210 feet) in width.
However, it can be quite challenging to get to the statue using public transportation. As a result, the Big Buddha Phuket, the third tallest statue in Thailand after the Great Buddha of Thailand and Luangpho Ya, is more popular and frequently visited because it is more easily accessible.
Is Big Buddha Phuket worth visiting?
Absolutely! The Big Buddha is a must-visit landmark in Phuket, offering not only cultural and spiritual insights but also panoramic views of the island. Whether you’re interested in local culture and Buddhism or simply seeking breathtaking views, the Big Buddha is an excellent destination.
Personally, I love the idea that we were able to meditate inside the temple. It has guides to follow and the temple is quiet and not crowded. The temple also features signs where famous people narrate their meditation experience and its effects on them.
Visiting the Big Buddha in Phuket was a truly enriching experience. It is a great opportunity to immerse oneself in Thai culture, witness breathtaking views, and find peace within the serene surroundings. What aspect of the Big Buddha inspires you to visit it?
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Read More Thailand Travel Guides:
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Slow Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance?
Absolutely YES! For just $5-10 USD per day, SafetyWing gives you peace of mind with its affordable coverage.
📲 Where to buy a local sim in Phuket?
I’ve switched to eSIMs for all my travels and it’s been a game-changer! Airalo’s eSIM offers cheap data in 200+ countries without roaming fees. Super easy to set up and top up! Get your Thailand eSIM here.
🏩 What’s the best way to book accommodations in Phuket?
It depends. Booking.com is my go-to platform for hotels and apartments. If I want to save money on hostels, I use Hostel World.
And for longer stays where I want a cozy home, I book VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
🗺️ How do I find local experiences and tours?
I find the best local tours with Klook, thanks to its vast selection across Asia. Get 5% off by using the code “GLADISKLOOK”
For truly unique and authentic local experiences, GetYourGuide is my go-to. I’ve taken cooking classes with local chefs and gone on guided tours of hidden places using both platforms. I’m really happy with how everything turned out.
🚗 Is renting a motorbike a good idea in Phuket?
Absolutely! If you can drive a motorbike, I highly recommend renting one through BikesBooking. Public transport in Phuket is not very good. We saved a lot of time and money by having our motorbike, and it was so much fun!
If you’re with friends or family, you can also rent a car from Discover Cars. The roads in Phuket are less busy than Bangkok’s, so you can enjoy a more relaxed drive.
✈️ How to find the best flight to Phuket?
I always use Skyscanner to find cheap flights. It’s a search engine that compares prices across many airlines to get you the best deals.
🚆 What’s the best way to get to Phuket?
The best way to reach Phuket is by plane, train, or bus. If you’re coming from Bangkok, check out my complete guide. I use 12Go to find the best deals.
🛳️ Can you get to other islands from Phuket?
Yes, you can easily travel from Phuket to other islands. Ferries from Phuket can take you to destinations like the Phi Phi Islands, Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, and Maya Bay.
🏦 What is the best way to withdraw money in Phuket?
I use my Wise card. Wise.com provides free global accounts and the most affordable money transfers. I can manage multiple currencies easily and withdraw cash at very low costs. Plus, I find their exchange rates are among the best available!
What a great article! It really answers questions I didn’t even think about. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for your kind words. Those were my exact questions, so I figured these tips will help others too!
How are the views from up there?
Aww, looks beautiful! I’ve been to many big Buddha shrines in Asia ( like in Bhutan) and always enjoy the experience as I do see travel as a spiritual experience where we can bless the land and people where ever we go.
Wow! This is so cool! I also love the tip on how to dress. It’s one of the things I worry most about when traveling as a crop top lover.
Thank you for appreciating my blog post, Bekah! I’m happy you found my dress code tips helpful. This is also my concern when traveling — I love crop tops too!
Big Buddha in Phuket is definitely on our must-see list! Pinning this post for when we finalize out SEA travel plans. Thank you for the detailed guide.
Thank you, Michele! Phuket (and Thailand in general) deserves a spot in your SEA travel plans. You may check out my other detailed guides if you need some insights on other SEA travels!