Thailand is a very popular destination among lovers of beach and sea holidays. And, of course, Phuket enjoys special love. When going on a trip, many tourists think in advance about where to go in Phuket. Since Thailand is a place where exotic things are concentrated, it is worth getting to know this wonderful country better.
Beaches of the island
Having arrived at the hotel after a long journey, you want, on the one hand, to relax, but on the other hand, you don’t want to waste precious minutes of rest on sleep. After all, Thailand is so beautiful that there is a lot to see. Don’t even think about where to go in Phuket. The first place worth visiting is the beach. After all, it is precisely for the sake of the sandy coast and warm sea that thousands of tourists fly here every year.
The choice of beaches on the island is incredibly large, we will list only the best of them: Karon, Kata, Surin, Nai Harn, Kata Noi, Kamala, Rawai, Bang Tao, Panwa, Mai Khao, Yanui, Kalim, Nai Thon, Nai Yang, Liberty , Pansy. Each of them has its own characteristics and charms.
The most convenient places for swimming are the west coast and the southern part of the island. But quieter places can be found in the northwest of Phuket and in the south. The most noisy and cheerful are the famous Kata, Karon and Patong. There are discos, shops and hotels. The largest number of people appear here during the high season. If you are visiting the island for the first time, it is worth exploring as many beaches as possible. This is possible if you move actively. After all, to form your opinion about the coast, it’s worth seeing it. Then next time you will have no doubts about where to go in Phuket. Tourists who visit the island not for the first time already consciously return to their favorite places.
Party beaches
When wondering where to go in Phuket, focus on the purpose of your trip. If you are looking for active parties and entertainment, then there is a direct road to Patong Beach. It is he who leads the list of party places along the entire coast. Here, guests can enjoy diving centers, nightclubs, massage parlors, nightclubs for adults, transvestite shows, etc. The question of where to go in Patong (Phuket) is simply inappropriate. There are so many attractions in the area that one vacation is clearly not enough to try them all. The main party spot is the incredibly famous Bangla Road. This is where the main nightlife spots are concentrated.
Young people love to relax on the equally famous Karon Beach. Its northern part with developed infrastructure is especially interesting.
Another beautiful place on the coast is Surini Beach. Of course, it can't compare to Patong, but it's still a lot of fun.
Beaches for families with children
Party places are not very good for families with children. For parents, what is important, above all, is cleanliness and convenient entry into the sea. Phuket has several beaches that are most suitable for children. One of them is Kata. Despite the fact that there are no bars or nightclubs, the coast is perfect for a family holiday. The shore has a smooth slope without vegetation and stones; the ebb and flow of tides are extremely rare here. And shallow water is a great place for kids.
Another place worth recommending for children is Nai Harn. This is where the Thais themselves prefer to relax. There are practically no loud establishments here, and in the evenings it is completely quiet and calm. In the southern part there is a warm undercurrent; as a rule, many children are always milling about in this place.
Bang Tao is also worthy of attention, its length is about seven kilometers. Sufficiently long shallow water is formed here during low tides. The beach has a calm and peaceful atmosphere.
Nai Yang has an incredibly long and gentle entry into the sea. During periods of serious low tides, the sandbank becomes so long that it is difficult to reach the depths. For holidays with children, we can also recommend Mai Kak, and not because it has a flat coastline, but because there will be no question of where to go with a child in Phuket. After all, on the beach itself there is a water park called “Splash Jungle”. By the way, this is the only water park on the entire island.
Family holiday
Where can you go in Phuket with children? The choice of entertainment facilities is quite large. It’s not for nothing that the island is one of the world’s best resorts for couples with children. There is so much entertainment here that there will be enough for more than one vacation.
All kinds of amusement parks are very popular in Phuket. Fanta Sea is in particular demand. There are playgrounds and attractions for guests of the park, and there are also animators who conduct entertainment events for children. On the territory of Fanta Sea there is a beautiful pond with carp and catfish, a tiger kingdom and other interesting places. Visitors can ride elephants and enjoy food at local cafes.
Another wonderful place in Phuket (Thailand), where you should definitely go, is the Dinopark. On its territory you can see many incredibly realistic stuffed dinosaurs and other ancient creatures. Photos taken in the park will surprise all your friends. The children are incredibly happy with this walk.
It is worth going to the butterfly park with schoolchildren. Very interesting excursions are held around its territory. In the park you can see butterflies that live only in untouched tropical forests. During the fascinating excursion, the guides will tell you a lot about insects and their benefits.
Where to go on Karon (Phuket)
At Karon, as at any resort, there are many water activities - skiing, banana boat, parasailing, etc. The beach is very good for snorkeling and diving. Surfers love to relax here, since the sea periodically pleases them with big waves. Among the local attractions, it is worth seeing the “Here is Karon” temple. Despite the fact that the building is a little over a hundred years old, it is incredibly beautiful. Ceremonies are still held there today. In the southern part of the beach there is the Dinopark, which we mentioned earlier.
There are many massage and spa parlors in the Karon area that are also worth a visit.
Where to go to Kata (Phuket)? You should definitely go to the Karon observation deck, which was previously called Kata. From here you have stunning views of the entire coastline. All tourists try to get here.
Surf House is no less interesting. Every surfer dreams of visiting this place, because here you can ride the waves in any weather. The establishment's pool is something amazing. Waves are created using generators, so they are always there. Even inexperienced surfers can ride them.
To the east of Kata Beach is the Kata Temple. It is built at the very foot of a mountain covered with tropical greenery. The temple was erected in 1832. But despite its considerable age, the building is maintained in excellent condition and appears to tourists in bright colors among lush greenery.
Sights of Phuket
The island is famous not only for its beaches, therefore, when going on vacation, it is worth thinking about the route in advance, where to go and In the list of “must-sees” of any tourist, the statue of the Big Buddha, which is located in the Chalong area, is in first place. The Buddha figure is so impressive that it can be seen from almost anywhere on the island. Its height reaches 45 meters. Buddha guards the entrance to the temple and the observation deck, where all the tourists crowd, wanting to take amazing photos.
The Shell Museum is a place that will appeal not only to children, but also to adults. Its exhibition includes more than two thousand shells, which were collected over forty years. Very rare exhibits are presented here. The collection of shells is displayed so that visitors can clearly see the differences between different objects. Here you can see the world's largest gold pearl, 140 carats.
Phuket Aquarium
If you are considering ideas of where to go in Phuket, then it is worth remembering such an interesting place as the aquarium. Those who want to see the underwater world, but do not want to dive under water, will like it here. The establishment's aquariums are home to several hundred fish, as well as other underwater inhabitants. The aquarium is divided into different parts, each of which has its own theme. Thus, in the “coral reefs” you can see living creatures that became the prototypes of the characters in the cartoon about the fish “Nemo”. On weekends, visitors can witness predatory sharks feeding. The highlight of the aquarium is a long tunnel, walking along which you feel like you are on the seabed.
Pearl farm
Women and girls love to go to the pearl farm. A trip to the Nakha farm allows you to learn a lot about the technology of growing jewelry.
Guides show guests the main stages of pearl formation. And the farm's jewelers demonstrate the main stages of processing and making jewelry. At the end of the excursion, tourists are given the opportunity to purchase pearl products in a local shop.
Snake farm
Tourists flock to Phuket for the exotic. Oddly enough, trips to the snake farm are very popular among vacationers. Here guests can watch a show with pythons and cobras. At the end of the show, tourists are invited to visit a local store with snakeskin products, which are very popular among guests.
Sirinat Park
If you are looking for where to go on your own in Phuket, then one of the options you can consider is a trip to Sirinat Park. Not only tourists, but also local residents love to relax on its territory. The park has three well-maintained beaches, as well as tropical forests untouched by human hands. The Sirinat coast is washed by the purest waters of the sea.
The park is home to the famous Jungle Splash water park. On the territory of the complex, tourists can try a variety of water attractions. Treks into mangrove forests are also organized for visitors. Tourist routes pass through the most beautiful places. If you like these places, you can stay in a bungalow in the park for several days.
Where to go for a walk in the evening?
Many tourists go to Thailand for the nightlife. Where to go in the evening in Phuket? In this regard, the island is a kind of entertainment center. Each beach area has its own beer bars, nightclubs and other establishments. The leader in nightlife is Patong. This beach is chosen by most tourists coming to Phuket. Patong is definitely the best place for active entertainment.
The main street where the center of nightlife is located is Bangla Road. During the daytime, the street looks exactly the same as other streets in the city. But with the onset of evening it changes dramatically, turning into one big nightclub. When visiting Bangla Road for the first time, any tourist is immersed in an atmosphere of fiery fun. True, there are a lot of transsexuals in local bars and discos. This is quite common in Thailand.
Go-go bars are also very popular among tourists. If you don’t like such places, then you can go to any nightlife establishment to listen to music and order drinks. In rock bars you can enjoy the best rock works performed live.
Instead of an afterword
Phuket is an incredibly interesting place, which is of interest not only from the point of view of a beach holiday, but also the opportunity to see interesting places of the famous resort. boasts a large number of attractions that are worth seeing. Don't forget about shopping. Thailand is famous for its leather goods, jewelry, cosmetics and medicines. While vacationing in Phuket, you can buy wonderful gifts for your loved ones.
A wonderful vacation, undoubtedly, can be organized by visiting the island of Phuket, Thailand. A tour to this resort costs an average of two and a half thousand dollars for two. The amount depends on which hotel you intend to check into, how far from the sea it is located and what kind of food plan is provided. Most of the cost of the trip is the flight. You most likely won’t find a ticket cheaper than two thousand dollars. It is logical to assume that now you are wondering what to see in Phuket.
Where can you stay during your vacation?
The first step in your journey will be a stop at a hotel. On the island of Phuket there are many establishments for any person with both a high and an average income. There are hotels with their own huge territory for vacationers, similar to those in Egypt (mostly five stars), and there are those that look like ordinary five-story houses with a pool on the roof. A little advice: do not set yourself the goal of checking into a five-star hotel (especially if you are a person with an average income).
You don't have to stay in the most expensive hotel
Believe me, there is something to see in Phuket and outside the hotels. After all, you came to relax and get impressions from this amazing place, and not to spend all your time in a five-star hotel. So it is better to opt for hotels with three stars. Moreover, the living conditions there are by no means bad, as one might initially think. There is one condition when moving in: you must pay a hundred dollar deposit for the duration of your stay, this is, so to speak, insurance. In the event that property is damaged, the hotel will keep this money for itself. But if there is no damage during your stay, they will be returned to you upon departure. The rooms in such hotels have a standard set: a large bed, a balcony, air conditioning, a safe, a TV, a kettle, a refrigerator. All available drinks in the bar are paid.
How to get around the city?
It is worth noting the transport that tourists use. In Thailand, traffic is on the left, so it is a little unusual to sit in the driver's seat and be a passenger at the same time. By the way, taxis are quite inexpensive. About two dollars, for this price you can get to almost any coast. It's better to travel as a group or meet someone from your hotel so you can pay the fare together. This will also save you money. Riding a tuk-tuk leaves a pleasant impression. This is a small minibus without windows and only has handrails. Some drivers, seeing that the passengers are Russian, turn on Rosenbaum. It's nice to hear familiar performers during a trip. Thais love to get busy, so you are guaranteed adrenaline along the way.
Beautiful places on the island
Beaches are something that everyone can see on their own in Phuket. There are many sandy areas on the island, and almost each one is different from the other. For example, the nearby beaches Beach), Karon Beach, Kata Beach. Patong has a sandy beach, but there are often large waves here. It is better to relax on this beach in groups, since all the infrastructure located nearby is aimed at entertaining large groups of people. Unfortunately, it is quite heavily polluted.
Kata Beach is suitable for both relaxed couples and cheerful groups of friends. One of the best places is Karon - snow-white sand, emerald water, the surroundings of vacationers do not cause negativity. This beach is suitable mainly for married couples with children, for couples who would like to retire and have a quiet time. The place is quite clean, there are a lot of gazebos. There are no noisy entertainment venues here, only stunning scenery and calm swaying waves.
People come to relax on these beaches both in summer and winter. The only thing that can upset spending time in Phuket in winter is that at such a time plankton breeds en masse, which stings unpleasantly. It does not cause any irritation on the skin, but you will still feel an unpleasant burning sensation (like after nettle).
What can you say about excursions?
Of course, there is something to see in Phuket, besides hotels and beaches. You cannot fully enjoy your holiday on the island without taking advantage of all kinds of excursions. They are offered by local excursion companies. You will be offered a vacation to a stunning place where you can spend time with your family. Newlyweds will especially like these islands. There are no entertainment facilities there, but there is a beautiful coastline with snow-white sand, the color of the water is turquoise, and the purity is such that it seems as if you are floating on air.
Another popular excursion is the city of Khao Lak. It usually includes a trip to a pineapple farm, a trip to a cave containing a huge Buddha statue, a bamboo raft ride, an elephant ride and a visit to a small waterfall. All this is included in one excursion for little money, but the impressions from it will last you a lifetime.
Traveling to neighboring islands
There are other things that are definitely worth seeing in Phuket. An excursion to the Phi Phi Islands should not bypass you. Firstly, the legendary film “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed here, and secondly, they are included in the UNESCO list as the most beautiful place on earth. But there is also an unpleasant side to this excursion. Since it is widespread throughout almost all of Thailand, the flow of tourists here is enormous. Usually people are brought here in the very morning, and by lunchtime there is no place for an apple to fall on the islands. At the same time, the excursion includes diving with equipment, access to the coast with monkeys, where you can feed them directly from the boat, and on the way back you will be taken to an island that appears at low tide and disappears at high tide. No less attractive is an excursion where you will not be bored.
So, we figured out what to see in Thailand. Phuket is an island with many places where you can eat delicious food. You probably won’t be able to find such a variety of restaurants anywhere, but mainly, of course, this is Thai cuisine. There are establishments on almost every corner that offer a wide variety of dishes to suit any wallet size. Of course, since this is an island, seafood will dominate the menu. But if you are a lover of meat dishes, then there will be no disadvantage in this regard.
Every tourist is convinced that one of the most frequently visited establishments - the Jang Ceylon shopping center - is a must see in Phuket on your own. You can buy absolutely everything here; the complex is simply huge. For people who want to save money on food, this establishment will be a godsend. The fact is that you can buy quite large sea fish there for very little money and ask for it to be cooked right on the spot. This is very convenient for those who have spent almost all their savings at the beginning of their vacation, and need to somehow get out of it in order to survive until departure. And in general, in this shopping center you can walk for hours and not notice how time passes, while you have not even walked around half of this building.
For those for whom a leisurely holiday is not suitable
If you are not a fan of a measured and relaxing holiday, be sure to check out Phuket Town. "What to see?" - this question will disappear by itself when you find yourself in this place. Phuket Town has many parks, Chinese and Thai temples, attractions such as Soi Romani, Chinpracha House, City Administration, On-On Hotel, Phuket Museum, Philatelic Museum, Museum of Chinese Life.
Heaven on earth
In general, the island of Phuket, Thailand is something fantastic. You will never be bored, as the inhabitants of this island have done a lot to make everyone who visited the resort want to come back. We hope we were able to answer the question of what to see in Phuket, reviews of which are usually enthusiastic from tourists. Have a nice time on the shores of a little paradise!
It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Thailand. The popularity of the island is due to its excellent sandy beaches, high-quality conditions for tourism and developed infrastructure. Most tourists come to Phuket specifically for a beach holiday, although the island is an excellent place to get acquainted with Thai culture and appreciate national attractions. What to see in Phuket? - a common question that arises among tourists coming to the island for the first time.
Wat Chalong Temple
Upside Down House
Cape Promthep
Kata Observation Deck
Cape Panwa
Kathu Falls
Koh Geo Yai Island
Oceanarium
Butterfly garden
Show Fantasy
Theater-restaurant Palazzo
The advantages of an excursion program planned independently are that you can see all the sights that interest you in any quantity and in any order. If you still don’t know what is the best thing to see in Phuket, then find out about the most popular attractions of the island to make your holiday in Phuket bright, exciting and memorable.
Architecture of Phuket Island
The first thing you can see in Phuket for tourists is, of course, Big Buddha statue is one of the significant architectural landmarks. It is located on Mount Nakaked, near the Chalong area. The statue rises on a 400-meter mountain and is an excellent observation deck.
Construction of the temple began in 2002. The first to be erected was a white marble statue 40 meters high and 20 meters wide. The construction was timed to coincide with the anniversary of the current reigning king of Thailand, and in honor of the queen, exactly the same statue was erected, but covered in gold.
After the installation of the Big Buddha monument, the government decided to build temples at the foot of the Big Buddha . Today, this is the main place of pilgrimage for monks in Phuket. You can enter the temple complex every day, during daylight hours. the entrance is free, and for an additional fee you can purchase souvenirs or a marble tablet on which you need to write a wish, and it will be used in the further decoration of the temple.
Wat Chalong Temple
Wat Chalong is the first largest architectural monument in Phuket. The construction of the temple dates back to the 19th century, but it became famous only at the beginning of the 20th century. Wat Chalong brought popularity monk Luang Por, who had knowledge of treating people and healing illnesses. Wat Chalong is a whole complex of temple buildings. Each building in Wat Chalong has its own significance. Thus, in Ubosit, the main temple, services and religious events are held, and this building is completely closed to visitors, while ministers enter there only during the service.
The most important building in the temple is Chedi. This stupa contains a piece of Buddha's ashes , presented to the king in 2001. In the Cruciform Vihara there are 2 more statues of monks who were the abbots of the temple. At the entrance to the building there is a statue of an elephant, which the Thais believe will bring good luck if you rub the elephant's belly. The Luang Por House is the building where the abbot's staff is kept, but it is not a real monk's house, but a reconstruction. Every year a fair is held in the temple complex, when a market is laid out on the territory of the monastery and a large number of parishioners come here to watch this colorful action.
Upside Down House
The Upside Down House is a modern architectural landmark. This is an ordinary three-story cottage, upside down. This is a very exciting entertainment that evokes enthusiastic emotions. Here you can take a series of unusual photos and just have fun. Near the house there is a garden in the form of a labyrinth.
The area of the labyrinth is 1200 m2, and its peculiarity is that local workers constantly change the directions of the labyrinth, opening some passages and blocking others. You can visit the attraction every day from 10 am to 6 pm. Ticket price for adults 250 baht, and for children 150 baht.
Natural resources of the island
Cape Promthep
The site at Cape Promthep is a two-level platform with parking, souvenir shops and several restaurants. On the cape is lighthouse, which is still used by sailors today. Inside it contains museum exhibits , telling the history of the lighthouse, the cape and the entire island.
View from Cape Promtep From the top of the cape opens panoramic views of the beaches and nearby islands , so this is a great place for a romantic dinner or a secluded getaway. Entrance to the cape is free and you can visit the observation deck 24 hours a day.
Kata Observation Deck
Another elevation from which you can enjoy the natural beauty of the island. The observation deck is surrounded on three sides by the most. There are restaurants and a gazebo, so you can dine at sunset or watch the sunrise.
The site is equipped with parking, benches and souvenir shops so that you can comfortably observe the vast expanses and buy something as a souvenir. This is exactly the place that is worth seeing in Phuket after taking a break from the beaches and hotels.
Cape Panwa
At Cape Panwa, the tourist infrastructure is not so well developed, so this is a great place to contemplate the vastness of the island and enjoy the silence.
The Cape is located in the north of Phuket, where you can find a couple of hotels and restaurants. The observation tower on the cape offers panoramic views of Phuket Town.
Kathu Falls
Katu is relatively small, but this does not prevent it from being one of the most famous natural attractions. Katu is 130 meters long and creates pools on four tiers in which you can swim.
Koh Geo Yai Island
The distance from Rawai beach to the island is 3 km. The island became famous thanks to the imprint of Buddha on one of the stones off the coast. There is a monastery on the island. You can get to the island by boat in half an hour.
Entertainment in Phuket
Oceanarium
If you are thinking about what to see in Phuket with children, then the aquarium will be the right decision. Collected here various representatives of the fauna of the Adaman Sea . A constant number of fish and marine life are kept behind glass in aquariums. Through the glass you can get a closer look at all the animals.
In the center of the aquarium there is a transparent tunnel that is illuminated from the inside, and all the sharks, rays, cuttlefish and octopuses surround you on all sides. This entertainment will not leave any adult, much less a child, indifferent. Admission for adults will cost 100 baht, children - 50 baht.
Butterfly garden
The butterfly garden features one of the largest insect exhibits in Asia . In total, about 7 thousand representatives of 40 different species live here. You can see different types of common and rare insects, as well as the process of transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly.
Butterflies are flying everywhere in the garden and you can hold them in your hands and take a photo with them. There is a shop in the garden where you can buy souvenirs.
Show Fantasy
Fantasy is a daily show program with bright and colorful performances that tells the story of the history of Phuket. The plot is based on the story of Prince Kamal. This is one of the few places where you can look at the elephants , with which 350 actors will perform. For an hour and a half, a fabulous story is told through the performances of professional stuntmen and dancers, using special effects, colorful costumes and scenery.
At the beginning of the show, the audience is captivated by the procession of elephants, and then the love story between the prince and the rural beauty is narrated. The lovers were separated on the eve of their wedding: the girl was kidnapped by bandits who attacked her village. The prince went in search of his beloved and was helped by mythical creatures. The show ends with a grand dance of all participants in the performance with the participation of elephants.
Theater-restaurant Palazzo
The Palazzo show presents an entertaining program, every day a new exciting show awaits the audience. All tables are located around the stage so that visitors can enjoy the show without interrupting their dinner.
The restaurant's menu includes seafood cuisine. Sometimes the show moves into the hall and then each guest becomes a participant in the show. The action begins at 8 pm and lasts 2 hours. The cost depends on the program offered and is from 1000 to 2500 baht.
Map of Phuket with attractions
For many years, Phuket has been breaking records in popularity and demand among travelers. And not without reason, because the island’s resorts are located on excellent beaches, the sea water is clean and transparent, and prices for vacations have always been kept at an affordable level.
According to many tourists, Phuket is a strong and worthy compromise between the controversial Pattaya and places like Samui, Krabi or Phi Phi. The island has heavenly views, tranquil lagoons, traditional temples and hundreds of entertainment venues.
In the capital of the island, Phuket Town, you can wander through the streets and enjoy the amazing architecture, and then rent a bike and ride to one of the many observation decks or to any beach. Everything is nearby, so the traveler does not have to travel hundreds of kilometers of tedious road.
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What to see and where to go in Phuket?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.
The monument is 45 meters high, installed on Nakkerd Hill in the southern part of the city. The Buddha statue is part of a large temple complex that is being built with charitable funds. Construction of the monastery began in 2002 and is still ongoing. Anyone can donate money for construction. The majestic statue of the god is visible from many points in Phuket; several roads lead from the coast to the attraction.
The temple is located in the center of the island on the way to the Big Buddha statue. The attraction is included in all sightseeing tours of Phuket. Wat Chalong is the largest and most picturesque temple on the island; it is deservedly popular among tourists. In the interior, the decoration of the elements is dominated by gilding, the floor is made of marble. The walls are painted with frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Buddha.
The structure was built at the very end of the 19th century in the Karon beach area. The small temple building looks quite well maintained, as it is carefully maintained. At the entrance there are figures of emerald-colored snake guards. Twice a week there is a night market on the site near the temple, where you can buy food and clothing. Some tourists claim that you can enter the monastery in a swimsuit, given its location on the beach.
Phuket town is located in the interior of the island, away from the beaten tourist paths. There are no beaches or vacation activities, but it has its own special atmosphere. The mansions from the last century that decorate the streets of the old city are built in the Sino-Portuguese style - a mixture of Chinese and European traditions, which indicates the times of alternating dominance of the Portuguese and Chinese on the island.
The bridge was built in 1967 and connects Phuket with mainland Thailand. Over time, it could no longer cope with the increased flow of cars. In 2011, a new modern bridge was built nearby and Sarasin became pedestrian. An observation deck has been installed here, which offers views of Phang Ga Bay and the exit to the Andaman Sea. At the foot of the bridge there are restaurants serving fresh seafood.
A walking alley on the territory of Patong Beach, the center of Phuket's nightlife. There are more than 200 bars, several large night discos, shops, and shows for adults. During the day, the street is an ordinary resort alley where they sell souvenirs and offer local cuisine. At night it turns into a motley gathering of wandering tourists, local transsexuals in breathtaking costumes and girls of easy virtue.
A weekend or, more correctly, weekend market, which is located in Phuket Town next to the Naka Temple. On weekdays, only a few outlets are open here. Trading starts at 16.00 and continues until 22.00-22.30. This is a very bright and colorful place where you can try several dozen types of Thai street food, buy souvenirs, clothes, shoes and various trinkets.
Lard Yai is considered the largest market in Phuket. Unlike many other similar places, local residents shop here, so prices are lower than in tourist places. The shopping area is located in Phuket Town and is open only on Sundays from 16.00 to 22.00. The rest of the time it is a busy street with fairly heavy traffic. Like any Thai market, Lard Yai's counters are bursting with an abundance of food items.
9. Shopping center "Central Festival"
A large modern store in Phuket Town where a tourist can spend a fair amount of money. This is the most ordinary shopping center, of which there are many in all cities of the world. In addition to goods from global manufacturers, Thai products are sold here, and at the local food court you can taste fast food with a national flavor. Numerous massage parlors offer their services on the territory of the center.
The stadium is located in the center of Patong on Bangla Road. It is considered one of the best in Phuket. Boxing matches are held here three times a week, usually about 10 fights per evening. Serious professionals often come to demonstrate their skills. The arena has a capacity of 350 seats. Those interested can attend Muay Thai training sessions, which are held in the evenings on days when there are no competitions.
A colorful theatrical performance telling the history of Thailand. The show involves several dozen elephants and more than 400 people. For an hour and a half, the viewer is immersed in a fascinating world of magnificent scenery, colorful costumes, acrobatic stunts, traditional dances and special effects. The show has been running since 1998, since then it has been visited by a huge number of tourists.
The second historical performance, opened in 2011 and is a worthy competitor to Phuket FantaSea. Tourists often face a dilemma: which show to attend? Many people decide to watch both. Siam Niramit is a branch of the capital's show park in Phuket. Before the performance begins, spectators are invited to visit an impromptu Thai village and have dinner at a restaurant.
A famous show featuring transsexuals and transvestites. They perform mind-blowing funny stunts, dance and sing superbly, causing indescribable delight among the audience. The actors demonstrate all their skills on stage, and the grateful audience responds with incessant applause. Simon Cabaret has been operating since 1991 on the beach (resort village) Patong.
Museum of 3D paintings and optical illusions, opened in 2013. Against the background of “volumetric” images, magnificent photographs are obtained, since in the picture the entire composition is combined into an overall picture. The gallery has reproductions of works by famous masters - Van Gogh, E. Munch, Da Vinci. Before entering the museum, you must take off your shoes, as some parts of the 3D images are located directly on the floor.
The museum exhibits a collection of the Patamacantin traveling brothers. For 40 years, they traveled to countless countries and collected many artifacts around the world. The collection contains more than 2,000 exhibits, many of them are quite rare and valuable. For example, the museum houses a 140-carat pearl and a huge shell weighing 250 kilograms. Some shell fossils are several hundred million years old.
Oceanarium, which opened in 1983. The aquarium displays the rich fauna and flora of the ocean and fresh water bodies. Moray eels, catfish, huge perches, bright tropical fish, sharks, stingrays, seahorses and other inhabitants of the depths (about 160 species in total) live here. Some of the most interesting creatures of the aquarium are the cat fish, box fish, clown fish and leopard shark.
The park is located in the central part of the island, approximately 8 km. from Phuket Town, it has been operating since 2013. The territory is home to more than 300 species of birds brought from all over the planet (about 1000 individuals in total). The creators of the park worked hard on the landscape design. There are gazebos, wooden figurines, sculptures scattered everywhere, and there are even several artificial ponds. The main attraction is the bird show, which takes place three times a day.
A small picturesque park located on an area of 1 hectare. It opened quite recently, but already claims to be a popular attraction on the island. The park space is divided into zones. There is a Japanese garden, a palm grove, a prairie with cacti, a Balinese corner, a European park, and a traditional Thai provincial house. In the Botanical Garden there is an artificial waterfall, where a tunnel entwined with greenery leads.
A small “branch” of a Buddhist monastery, where there are long-standing traditions of keeping tigers and teaching them to interact with people. Several animals live on the territory; the tourist can choose which one he wants to enter into the cage. The cost of visiting depends on this. It is believed that these tame tigers are not aggressive and do not attack people, so they can be petted. But before entering, each visitor is given a paper to sign, according to which he agrees with all the consequences of visiting a dangerous predator.
A hill located near Phuket Town that is home to a colony of monkeys. There are a lot of animals there, they are not at all afraid of people - they calmly walk along the road, hang on trees, and happily eat treats from the hands of tourists. Sometimes a whole flock of monkeys can tag along behind a car or moped; this sight looks very funny. At the top of the hill there is an observation deck overlooking Phuket Town.
One of the largest and most picturesque waterfalls in Phuket. Jets of water fall from a height of 15 meters; you can swim in a small lake at the foot if you wish. The place became famous due to the fact that on its territory there is a nursery for orphan monkeys. Here, baby gibbons left without care for some reason are nursed. You cannot enter the nursery, but you can make a donation.
The reserve was founded in 1981. Its territory stretches along the northwestern coast of the island. Within the national park there are wild beaches of Bangtao, Nai Thon, Nai Yang, Mai Kao, where giant turtles nest. The reserve has a unique mangrove grove, where various species of this tree are represented and mangrove snakes and monitor lizards live. The total area of Sirinath is about 90 km².
The point is located between Nai Harn and Kata beaches. From the top of the hill there are views of the coast and beaches of Karon, Kata Yai, Nai Harn, and the statue of the Big Buddha is clearly visible. The observation deck is popular among tourists; many people come here to admire the surroundings. There are a couple of cafes nearby where you can grab a bite to eat. There is a large gazebo on the site.
Rang Hill is located within Phuket Town, overlooking Chalong and the emerald Andaman Sea. At the top of the hill where the observation deck is located, there is a monument to P. Ratsadanupradit, one of the respected governors of Phuket province. Wild monkeys live on the slopes and sometimes beg visitors for food. Near the observation deck there is a restaurant and a small park for sports.
A less popular and famous viewpoint in Phuket. It offers views of the beaches of Nai Harn, Ya Nui and a small uninhabited island off Prom Thep Cape. The site is equipped with a gazebo and several tents with food and drinks. There are not many people here, as well-trodden tourist routes lie away from this picturesque place. But this is perhaps for the best.
The cape is the southernmost point of the island. From the local observation deck you can watch stunningly beautiful sunsets. Travel agencies even organize special evening excursions so that people can see the magical colors of the sun setting into the waters of the Andaman Sea and painting the entire horizon in all shades of pink. In clear weather, you can even see the distant shores of India from the observation deck.
Nai Harn is located in the southwestern part of Phuket. On both sides it is surrounded by low mountains, which are covered with palm groves. The beach is small - only 1 km. in length and up to 50 meters in width. It is suitable for a relaxing family holiday with children, as the descent into the water is smooth and gentle. Thanks to warm currents, the water temperature remains within a comfortable range of 27-30°C throughout the year.
Member of the three most popular and popular beaches on the island, which, in addition to it, also includes Kata and Patong. It stretches along the coast for several kilometers. There are a lot of hotels and tourists here, but still not as crowded as in Patong due to the longer coastline. There are fewer people on the outskirts of Karon, so those who like solitude are advised to go there straight away rather than look for a place in the central part.
A large beach with golden sand and a shallow entry into the sea with a length of more than 7 km. It is located next to Patong. The southern part of the beach is more populated; there are restaurants, cafes, retail outlets and other infrastructure. The northern part is less popular due to its inaccessibility. In the central part of Bang Tao there are several natural lakes that are connected to the sea through a narrow channel.
The coastline of the beach stretches along a coral reef. According to some tourists, this is the cleanest water in Phuket. From May to October, winds blow here, so the place becomes popular among surfers. Many local hotels are located in close proximity to the beach and their windows offer excellent views of the azure Andaman Sea. Kata is suitable for both family recreation and active pastime.
Well, you can spend your time in a different way - explore the local attractions. We offer our blog readers about Top 9 places worth visiting in Phuket.
1. Phang Nga Bay
A distinctive feature of Phang Nga Bay are the karst layers of light limestone that protrude directly from the emerald green water. For many years, the skeletons of marine organisms settled here and gradually turned into thick layers of sedimentary rock. Eventually, under the influence of heat and their own weight, they turned to stone. The rocks here are distinguished by a characteristic striped pattern, which appears as a result of the oxidation of various minerals that make up the limestone.
Under the influence of geological shifts, the limestone bottom rose to the surface of the bay, forming 40 islands that adorn the local landscape. The two most famous islands are James Bond Island and Koh Panyee. To truly enjoy the picturesque landscapes, the beauty of nature, swim on the quiet, clean beaches and admire the sunset at the end of the day, it is better to rent a boat in the north of Phuket and devote a whole day to a trip to these 2 islands.
2.
Unlike many other Thai provinces, Phuket Town has its own unique personality, most clearly expressed in the Old Town area. In this historical part you will find tombs, temples, both Buddhist and Chinese, home shops, quaint cafes, tiny printing houses, private and public museums and even a mini red light district.
The old town of Phuket Town was built after wealthy times in Phuket at the end of the last century, when metal became incredibly valuable. In this part of the city you can see stunning Chinese colonial mansions, one of which was home to the Tin Baron over 100 years ago. This part of the city is small and can be explored on foot. It is better to do this early in the morning or after sunset. There are quite a few restaurants and cafes where you can have a very tasty meal.
3. Night Bangla Road
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