You can't really get to know Thailand without visiting Phuket Island. For a thorough acquaintance, it takes a lot of time, at least 4-5 days, to go around all the sights and have time to lie on the beach. If 1, 2 or 3 days are allocated for a visit, then it is better to answer the question in advance: "what to see in Phuket?"
Big Buddha statue
The symbol of Phuket, the most visited and famous location. The Big Buddha temple complex is still under construction, but it is already striking in scale. Each visitor can donate money for the construction, sign a plaque and forever remain in the history of those who had a hand in the creation of the famous monument. You can also talk with a monk, receive a blessing and a red ribbon, learn to meditate.
Temple of the Reclining Buddha
Despite the fact that the Temple of the Reclining Buddha is not in the tourist part of the island, it is the second most famous and visited. Legend has it that in this position the Buddha met the Demon who had arrived from the underworld. During the conversation, the visitor wanted to look the sage in the eyes, and for this he had to constantly bend over. Today the Reclining Buddha gives peace and fulfills the wishes of the guests.
South Cape Promthep
From the highest point, a beautiful view of the nearest islands opens up, but you should not limit yourself to the observation deck, as most tourists do. Walk down the path as close to the water as possible and enjoy the beauty of the island. The best time to visit is sunset. They also say that if you leave a coin to the statue of Buddha and make a wish, it will definitely come true!
Abandoned hotel on the northeastern headland
The once luxurious hotel in the northeastern part of the island is now empty. First, it offers stunning views of the island. Secondly, it's interesting to see how nature destroys a structure that no one needs. Empty rooms, a leafy pool, dilapidated gazebos - everything in the hotel evokes special emotions.
Bangla Road
While making a list of “what to see in Phuket”, many people ignore Bangla Road due to its specific reputation. Yes, this is indeed the so-called "red light district" and yes, there is a lot of entertainment aimed at the respective tourists. However, it is not at all necessary to watch a ping-pong show or striptease.
On Bangla Road, you can eat and buy inexpensive food, as well as clothes, shoes, accessories and souvenirs. There is a special atmosphere of endless fun reigning there, you can dance, sing in karaoke, have a drink at the bar and take cool photos in neon as a keepsake.
Streets of Phuket Town
And if the noise of Bangla Road does not appeal, then you can go to quiet Phuket Town, where there is never crowding. This is an area of the island, densely built up with colorful little houses in which the locals live. There are no typical tourist attractions, but you can try the food that Thais themselves love for little money. Phuket Town is great for photo shoots.
Temple on Karon
A bright and colorful temple on Karon attracts the eye. It is small, authentic and less popular with tourists than other temples and pagodas. But it is worth considering that locals often go there, especially on weekends when the market is open. It is important to remember that you can enter the territory of the temple only in closed clothes.
Cape Panwa Oceanarium
The huge Phuket Aquarium is home to thousands of marine abodes brought from the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. It is worth stopping in the ten-meter tunnel to see big and small sharks, rays, turtles, which literally swim by or overhead. It is better to visit the aquarium in the morning, so as not to get bogged down in the crowd of tourists.
Kingdom of Tigers
If it seems that all the sights of the island are already familiar, and there are no more ideas of what to see in Phuket, then you should go to the tiger zoo. There you can get to know large predators, watch teenagers, and pet small kittens.
Elephant farms
Elephants are sociable animals that are friendly to humans and easy to train. Most Thai elephant farms exist to ensure that animals that can no longer be exploited receive proper care. On the farms, you can watch shows, feed and pet elephants, and ride them through the jungle. All the money raised goes to the maintenance of animals.
Upside Down House
Adults and young travelers will like the fun Upside Down House ride because it’s fun to walk on the ceiling and look at pieces of furniture from the bottom up. The photos are fantastic! Also on the territory of the "Upside Down House" there is a quest in which visitors cannot leave the location until they solve logic problems, and an evergreen labyrinth.
Bang Pae waterfall
When deciding what else to see in Phuket, it is worth going to Bang Pae waterfall in Khao Phra Teo park. Height - 15 meters, swimming is allowed, but the water is very cold. More often people go to the waterfall in order to feel the natural power, and enjoy the spectacle that will take your breath away.
Botanical garden in Phuket
The Botanical Garden is an amazingly beautiful place where it is pleasant just to walk among tall trees, spreading palms and artificial ponds in which golden carps live. The atmosphere is conducive to inner relaxation, creates a contemplative and peaceful mood. In the garden, you can learn how tropical fruits are grown by Thai farmers and how themed gardens such as English, Japanese and Chinese are created.
Aerial Tramway Flight of Hanuman
Ropeway Flight of Hanuman is not an attraction for the faint-hearted tourists, but it leaves an indelible impression. The entrance ticket is valid for three hours, during which the visitor can try all the cable cars, that is, fly over the jungle and look at their beauty from a bird's eye view, as well as just walk around the park.
Night markets
You cannot visit Thailand and not visit at least one night market! Every evening, dozens of Thais go to the beaches to set up tents and stalls to the delight of numerous shoppers. Famous Thai street food can be found there, as well as meat, seafood, vegetables, fruits, spices, and more. Prices are democratic, bargaining is always appropriate. Helpful Hint: Find a free table and dine at the night market. You can either buy ready-made food, or buy fish and ask the seller to cook them right away.
Now you know what to see in Phuket first, and therefore you will be able to organize an unforgettable trip. But be prepared for the island to call you again, and you cannot refuse it!
