Friday, July 11, 2008

Phuket's Big Buddha

Phuket's Big Buddha is still under construction but is already worth a visit as over 80% have now been completed. At 45 meters high, this will be the biggest Buddha image in Thailand. It is perched atop Nakkerd Hills and can be seen from much of southern Phuket and the views are just magnificient.

At the top of the hill is a Buddhist Shrine so you should dress appropriately (not singlets, sport shorts or short skirts). Beyond this you can climb the steps to the base of the Big Buddha. There is also a 5.5 meter high brass Buddha here.

There are absolutely magnificent views across southern Phuket. You can see across Chalong Bay and beyond Cape Panwa. You have great views of the islands in Chalong Bay. From the other side, you can see Rawai and Laem Promthep. Looking inland, you can see that Phuket does still have plenty of undeveloped hills and forest.

To get there, drive to Chalong Circle and take the road towards Wat Chalong. Approx 1kilometer from Chalong Circle is the left hand turn for the long climb up the hill to the Big Buddha.

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