Hotels near Big Buddha (Phra Phutta Mingmongkol Akenakkiri)
Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, Thailand
The Big Buddha statue stands 45 metres tall on Nakkerd Hill (380 m elevation) between Chalong and Karon, dominating southern Phuket's skyline. Built 2007-2022 entirely from donations, the marble-tiled statue covers a concrete and reinforced steel frame. The hilltop temple complex around the statue includes shrines, a meditation hall, and one of the best 360-degree views on the island - Phang Nga Bay to the east, Andaman Sea to the west.
Free admission - donations welcomed at the entrance to receive a small souvenir tile. Dress code applies: covered shoulders and knees; sarongs are loaned free if you arrive in beachwear. Open daily 06:00-19:30. The access road is steep - small motorcycles and tuk-tuks may struggle. Taxi from Patong 500 THB return; scooter 30 minutes from Phuket Town. Allow 90 minutes including the view.
Pro Tip: Visit 90 minutes before sunset for the best photos - the statue catches golden light from the west, and the panorama view at dusk over both coasts is uniquely Phuket. Combine with Wat Chalong temple 5 minutes down the hill for a full half-day.
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