The Big Buddha of Phuket sits atop Nakkerd Hill between Chalong and Kata, rising 45 metres in gleaming Burmese white marble and visible from across the southern half of the island. The views from the hilltop terrace are among the finest on Phuket — on clear days you can see Chalong Bay, Phang Nga Bay, and several offshore islands simultaneously. The site is an active place of worship with small shrines, resident monks, and a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the tourist beaches below.
Highlights
- 45-metre Burmese marble Buddha statue, one of the largest in Thailand
- 360-degree panoramic views over Chalong Bay, Kata, and Rawai
- Active temple with resident monks — a genuinely spiritual site
- Smaller satellite Buddha statues and blessing shrines around the hilltop
How to Get There
The Big Buddha is accessible by road from Chalong circle (about 6 km). Take a Grab or rent a motorbike from any beach area. The ascent takes about 15 minutes from Chalong. No public songthaew route goes directly to the summit.
Visitor Tips
Dress modestly from home — the entrance dress-code check creates a queue and the loaner sarongs are uncomfortable.
Sunrise visits are crowd-free and the light on the marble is extraordinary.
The road up Nakkerd Hill has sharp bends — take a Grab rather than attempting it on a bicycle.
Dress Code Required
Frequently Asked Questions
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