Big Buddha Tours and Activities

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Sitting on a lotus leaf on one of the highest points in Phuket, the Big Buddha is a dramatic statement that appears to survey the stunning panorama.

The culture of Phuket may be becoming more diverse, thanks to the influx of tourists and expats, but the locals' Buddhist faith is alive and well. Just glance up from the beaches of Kata or Karong and you'll see a glistening white testament to that faith – the Big Buddha that has risen up on the Nakkerd Hills. Construction only started in 2002, but the massive 46-metre marble statue was completed by 2011. And the site now brings in the faithful, and the curious, in increasing numbers.

Once you've climbed up the winding road to the summit, through the lush rainforest that clads the Nakkerd Hills, you'll see why. Not only is the Big Buddha (or the Phra Puttamingmongkol Akenakkiri Buddha) an awe-inspiring sight – floating on a lotus pad atop one of the highest parts of the island – the view will inspire plenty of awe too. The peak affords an uninterrupted view across the south of Phuket Island, taking in the white crescent of Kata Beach to the west, and the long arc of the Chalong resort to the east.

The Big Buddha was built entirely through charitable donations, which took on a new meaning following the tsunami of 2004, with many of the marble tiles inscribed with messages to loved ones lost in that disaster. The Big Buddha is dedicated to the Thai King, and sitting next to it is another golden Buddha, built with his Queen in mind, standing 12 metres tall, and made from 22 tons of brass. Although these two statues are the main attractions, and now finished, this grand project is far from complete.

The site owners are planning to build a wider park at the top, with many more statues and visitor attractions. So you may find the Big Buddha accompanied by on-going building work for a few more years. Already there is a restaurant – the Nakkerd Sea View Restaurant – for visitors to drink, eat and take in the view. More facilities are planned and look likely to be needed – the call of the Big Buddha is being heard by increasing numbers curious visitors, year-by-year.

Plan a trip to see Big Buddha

Kalima Resort & Spa, Phuket
Nap Patong
The Bloc Hotel
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Reviews of Big Buddha

4.4
Top destination
5 - Excellent
153
" "5 - Excellent 46.36363636363637%
4 - Good
146
" "4 - Good 44.24242424242424%
3 - Okay
27
" "3 - Okay 8.181818181818182%
2 - Disappointing
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" "2 - Disappointing 0.6060606060606061%
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5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
3 Oct 2019

Well worth the visit.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
2 Oct 2019

Definitely climb the stairs to the BIG Buddha and go inside. This monument has a temple underneath and do read the writings on the walls that explain the Buddha religion. Even Einstein weighed in his opinion of this religion. As with everything, Einstein was way ahead of his time and his understanding of the Buddhism way (Scripted on the readings in this temple), describes it with simple clarity and perhaps Scientist today would find that the journey to Buddhism Enlightenment could stand side by side with Science.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
15 Aug 2019

Our guides were exceptional and very helpful (I didnt know how to drive). They were patient and courteous. Big shout out to our lady boy ..

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
9 Jun 2019

Always a place under construction. Allow a couple of hours to take in all the history and beauty.

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveller
28 May 2019

About as spiritual and authentic as a supermarket

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
11 Apr 2019

Once your up there , you”ll see why it’s not called Medium Buddha.

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