If travelling is a passion, and you enjoy immersing yourself in the culture and heritage of the places you visit, then Phuket will certainly not disappoint. This beautiful destination should be at the top of your list – if it isn’t already – where you can explore tropical islands and seek out vibrant cultural attractions. While many visitors book Phuket boat tours to stunning beach and island locations, cultural aspects of this island paradise are often overlooked.

In this guide, we will discuss Phuket’s top cultural  attractions that should be on any tour itinerary.

A] Phuket’s Five Unmissable Cultural Attractions

Phuket is a cultural hub with many attractions that will leave you spellbound. 

  • The Big Buddha, a majestic landmark and the most celebrated cultural attraction in Phuket, is a seated Maravija Buddha statue. It is testament to the Island’s Buddhist faith and offers a panoramic view of the breathtaking coastline. To reach the statue, you must climb the road to Nakkerd Hills summit, where this experience of spiritual and visual grandeur awaits.

  • Wat Chalong Temple, a sacred jewel in Phuket, is home to more than 20 Buddhist temples. The architectural splendor of this temple is undeniable with its ornate structure, intricate cravings, and vibrant murals. It stands as the Island’s most revered and significant temple, making it an unmissable destination for people who want to absorb Phuket’s culture and heritage in its truest form.

  • The Heroine’s Monument, situated between Phuket Town and the international airport, immortalizes the extraordinary bravery of Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon. Each year in March, this cultural attraction honors these two women who led a local resistance against the invading Burmese army.

  • Phuket Old Town, famed for its Sino-Portuguese architecture, offers a colorful journey through time. Vintage houses painted in vivid colours line the streets of this historic quarter, and is a haven for cultural enthusiasts and photographers alike. Old Phuket Town is also famed for its charming cafés, boutiques, and art galleries, while on Sundays the area transforms into a walking street market.

  • Siam Niramit offers an immersive Phuket cultural experience like no other. This spectacular show is a journey through the Island’s heritage, history, traditions, and beliefs. You can learn about their legends and folklore as the performance unfolds across three acts, each showing a different aspect of Thai culture.

B] The Scenic Places in Phuket

Phuket is known for its stunning islands, crystal-clear water, limestone karsts, and sunset views. Here are some island tours that are worth taking on your Phuket trip. 

  • A Phi Phi Island Tour offers a trip to the popular Thai islands of Koh Phi Phi, making it one of the top tours to go for. You can experience the scenic Maya Bay, go to Monkey Beach, and immerse yourself in the picturesque backdrop of Bamboo Island. In addition to sightseeing, you can spend a relaxing and fun day snorkeling, swimming, or diving in crystal-clear waters.

  • One of the most famous tours offered by various tour operators is the Phang Nga Bay tour. Simba Sea Trips is renowned for their early morning departures and offers the Phang Nga Bay tour, where you can view the iconic James Bond Island amongst  other attractions in a high-quality speedboat, while avoiding the crowds. You can spend a day kayaking through ancient caves, explore lagoons, and wonder at the breath-taking seascapes.

  • You can hop on a join-in tour to Coral Island from Phuket and spend a day exploring this popular destination. This island has white sand beaches, coral reefs, and a small cove, making it the perfect tour for your Phuket trip. You can take the Coral Island tour on a private speedboat or yacht to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing day with your friends and family.

  • Another tour you can enjoy on your Phuket trip is a boat tour to Krabi. Explore Hong Island and other destinations, including Phi Phi. There are various island-hopping tours from Phuket to Krabi, such as the 4-Islands tour. You can book a private luxury long-tail boat to spend the day in comfort while eating gourmet meals and indulging in water activities. 

As you can see, there is no shortage of attractions in Phuket, and the island has everything in store for every traveler. Include these destinations when planning your itinerary to enjoy the best of Phuket’s culture and incredible islands.

FAQ

What are the must-see cultural attractions in Phuket?

The must-see cultural attractions in Phuket include the Big Buddha, Wat Chalong Temple, the Heroine’s Monument, Old Phuket Town, and the Siam Niramit cultural show.

How do I get to the Big Buddha in Phuket?

To reach the Big Buddha, you must drive or take a taxi to the base of Nakkerd Hill and then climb the stairs to the summit. You can also hire a local guide for a more informative experience.

What can I expect to see in Old Phuket Town?

Old Phuket Town is famous for its colourful Sino-Portuguese architecture, vintage houses, quaint cafés, art galleries, and vibrant street markets. On Sundays, it transforms into a bustling walking street market.

What is included in a Phi Phi Island tour from Phuket?

A Phi Phi Island tour includes stops at scenic locations like Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Bamboo Island. You can also enjoy activities such as snorkelling, swimming, or diving in crystal-clear waters.

What are the benefits of booking a private boat tour in Phuket?

Booking a private boat tour in Phuket offers more comfort, flexibility, and privacy. You can tailor the tour to your preferences, avoid crowds, and enjoy personalized service, making for a more intimate and relaxing experience.