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The Phuket Big Buddha is a seated statue of Guanyin, facing east toward Phang Nga Bay and back toward the Andaman Sea. The statue is located atop a hill in southwestern Phuket, Thailand, on what was once a rubber plantation. It is a popular tourist destination and is managed by the Phuket government.
The Phuket Big Buddha cost 30 million baht to build, with 10 million allocated by the Phuket government and 20 million donated by the Mingmongkol Faith 45 Foundation. The Buddha stands 45 meters tall, one meter shorter than the Statue of Liberty, and its lotus base is 25 meters in diameter.
November to April of the following year
The climate is relatively cool and comfortable, with less rain and plenty of sunshine, which is very suitable for various outdoor activities.
【Recommended Activities】
→Visit the Big Buddha
Appreciate the majesty and solemnity of the Buddha, feel the religious atmosphere, and take a walk around the Buddha and take photos.
→Overlooking the beautiful scenery
The Phuket Big Buddha is located on the top of a mountain with a wide view around it. It overlooks the beautiful scenery of Phuket, including the beach, mountains and ocean, and enjoys the charming natural scenery.
→Understand Buddhist culture
There may be some exhibitions or explanations near the Big Buddha that introduce Buddhist culture and history, which can increase your understanding of Buddhism.
【Recommended Play Time】
1-2 hours
Free and open
6:00-18:30 every day
The Phuket Big Buddha is a famous landmark and spiritual site located on Nakkerd Hill. Completed in 2004, it is a symbol of peace, serenity, and Buddhist values. The statue stands 45 meters tall and is made of white marble, offering visitors a stunning view of Phuket. It is a place of worship and a center for meditation.
The Phuket Big Buddha is located on Nakkerd Hill, between Chalong and Kata Beach in Phuket, Thailand. Visitors can reach it by taxi, tuk-tuk, or private car. It is not accessible by public transport, so taxis or private vehicles are the most common modes of transport. Walking is not recommended due to the steep hill.
The Big Buddha is open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and large crowds. Visiting at sunrise or sunset offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.
There is no official entrance fee to visit the Phuket Big Buddha; however, donations are encouraged to support the upkeep of the site. Visitors can contribute directly on-site or online through their official website.
No advance booking is required to visit the Big Buddha, as it is a free-to-visit site. Donations can be made on-site or online, but there is no need to pre-book a ticket for entry.
A visit to the Phuket Big Buddha typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows time to explore the statue, take in the views, and enjoy the surrounding grounds and shrines.
Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, Thai, and others, upon request. There is also a general information board on-site that provides context about the statue and its significance. Audio guides are not commonly provided, but local guides are available for a more in-depth experience.
Start at the base of the Big Buddha to appreciate its size and marvel at the marble details. Walk around the area to view smaller shrines and statues. Finish with a stop at the panoramic viewpoint for photos and to soak in the scenic views of Phuket. Spend time at the temple grounds to reflect and meditate if you wish.
Night visits are not available for the Big Buddha, as the site closes at 7:00 PM. However, the views during sunrise and sunset are highly recommended. There are no light shows or special tours offered at night.
The Phuket Big Buddha can get crowded, especially during midday and weekends. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends.
There are toilets and small shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks near the Big Buddha. There is also a rest area where visitors can sit and enjoy the view. However, there are no large restaurants or dining facilities on-site.
The Phuket Big Buddha is accessible for most visitors, but the steep hill may be challenging for elderly or disabled individuals. There are vehicles that can be hired to take you up the hill if needed. The site itself has a manageable path for walking and exploring, although there are some stairs leading up to the statue.
Cash is the preferred method of donation at the Big Buddha. While some small shops may accept cards or mobile payments, it is best to have cash on hand for any donations or purchases.
There are a few small cafes and restaurants around the base of the Big Buddha offering simple Thai food and beverages. However, for a wider variety of options, it's best to head to the nearby Kata or Chalong areas, where there are more dining options.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options can be found in the nearby Kata and Chalong areas, where several restaurants cater to international dietary preferences.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops at the Big Buddha offering a variety of items, including religious artifacts, Buddha statues, clothing, and handcrafted goods. Popular souvenirs include small Buddha statues, incense, and traditional Thai handicrafts.
Taxis, tuk-tuks, or private drivers are the best options for continuing your trip after visiting the Big Buddha. Alternatively, renting a scooter is a popular way to explore the surrounding areas and beaches at your own pace.
