Phuket: Top cultural and adventure picks

Phuket: Our top cultural and adventure picks

MF editorial team

01 May 2015

updated the 4 May 2019 à 01:24

See another side of Phuket that doesn’t involve the beach and nightclubs. Here are our tips to explore the island.

1/5
Big Buddha
The 45 metre (147 feet) tall marble Buddha sits on one of the highest peaks at Khao Nakkerd Hill. The Big Buddha has become a religious icon for Thai Buddhists as well a great tourist attraction. Visible from most places in the south, Big Buddha has with an amazing 360 degree view. The views from the top are indeed breathtaking.

Entry to the Big Buddha is free but donations are much appreciated. At the end of the hall there are monks who accept offerings for merit making while providing blessings. One way of contributing a donation is to purchase a block of marble which you can write your name on.
2/5
Bungee jump
If you want something challenging try a 50-metre bungee jump above a jungle-surrounded lake. The jungle bungee jump offers one of the most exhilarating experiences in Phuket.
Managed and run by a professional New Zealand team, the Phuket branch of this business opened in 1992. The Jungle Bungee Jump offers five different styles of jump: standard bungee, water touch (or water dip) bungee, tandem bungee, backward bungee and catapult bungee.
The area is located in Kathu, only 15 minutes by car from Patong Beach.
3/5
Cha Long Temple
Wat Chalong, or Chalong Temple is the largest and most visited Buddhist temple in Phuket. Built at the beginning on 19th century, the temple is located in the heart of Chalong. The centerpiece of the temple is the 60 meter tall Chedi that houses a real bone splinter of the Buddha. This area is a sacred part of the temple where great respect should be shown.

Despite revered as the most important temple in all of Phuket, the temple does not give a religious vibe (except the Chedi). This is due to the hundreds of tourists that flock to the temple on a daily basis. For a more quiet experience, visit the temple in the morning or late afternoon.
4/5
Diving
Phuket is a great place to get your PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) certificate. The island is rated amongst one of the top diving destinations in Asia. Diving day trips from Phuket to Phi Phi Island and the Racha Islands operate throughout the year.
The waters are ideal for both beginners and advanced divers. The water boasts crystal clear water, spectacular reefs and a flamboyant marine life.
5/5
Old Phuket Town
Old Phuket Town is a perfect place for a half day visit. The old Sino Portuguese streets are glazed with beautiful shop houses and magnificent mansions. There are many eateries, cafes and bakeries and eateries selling authentic Thai food.
Do visit the local markets near the bus station and venture into the tiny streets to discover abandoned mansions. There is a large restoration and improvement project in Thalang Road, the most prominent street in the town. Many shophouses and mansions have been refurbished, repainted and renovated. The town has applied to become a Unesco world heritage site too.

For many who have not visited Phuket, the island seems to consist only of beaches and a bustling nightlife.

But this is not the case. There’s a lot more to do than simply lying on the beach or hitting a club. Make the most of the island’s magnificent temples and thrilling adventures.

Click through the gallery for our top five choices.

Text and photos: Roshni Kapur

Beauty Buys: Sulwhasoo Blooming Set