San Chao Tha Ruea
San Chao Tha Ruea is a Chinese shrine standing prominently along one of Phuket's busier main roads in the Si Sunthon area of Thalang district. What sets it apart from other temples on the island is its dramatic architectural character — dragons line the staircase, run beneath the eaves, and crown the rooftop, giving the building a majestic, layered appearance that rewards close inspection. Inside, visitors find a rich collection of Chinese gods arranged on the left, while the right side houses Buddha, Guanyin, and other venerated figures, reflecting the blended Chinese and Thai spiritual traditions that have long shaped this part of Phuket.
The atmosphere is calm and genuine, functioning as an active place of worship rather than a tourist set piece. The grounds are spacious, with free parking available and easy access directly from the main highway, making it a straightforward stop when exploring Phuket's inland areas. Admission is free, though donations are welcomed.
As an active shrine, visitors should dress modestly — covering shoulders and knees is expected as a mark of respect. Opening hours are not widely published, so visiting during daylight hours is the most reliable approach. The convenient roadside location means it can easily be combined with other cultural sites in the Thalang district, including the nearby Thalang National Museum.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After San Chao Tha Ruea, round out your day in Phuket with contrasting stops nearby.
Reviews from Google
This temple is very different from the typical ones that can be found on the island. A majestic, beautiful building is located on one of the main, busy roads of the island. The stairs to the temple are framed by very beautiful dragons. The arch under which you will have to pass is amazing and attracts attention. The temple building itself has very interesting and unusual frescoes from Chinese culture. On the roof of the building there are also beautiful dragons guarding a mysterious pearl. In the evening, when the lights are turned on, the temple is transformed and begins to look mysterious and mystical! This temple is definitely worth visiting. There is wonderful energy here, very pleasant staff and everything around looks mysterious and very interesting. Full information with video and easy navigation - in the application 👉 PHUKETON
A very beautiful temple! Admission is free, you can make a donation. I advise you to visit!
Nice small shrine for once to visit. Spacious free parking and just a few steps from the main highway.
A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 200 reviews on Google.
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San Chao Tha Ruea: Frequently Asked Questions
Is San Chao Tha Ruea worth visiting?
San Chao Tha Ruea holds a 4.6★ rating from 200 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Phuket.
What are the opening hours of San Chao Tha Ruea?
San Chao Tha Ruea is typically open 08:00-17:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit San Chao Tha Ruea?
The best months to visit Phuket are November – April, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: June – September (rough seas).
Where is San Chao Tha Ruea located?
San Chao Tha Ruea is at 169 ม 3 Thep Krasattri Rd, Tambon Si Sunthon, Amphoe Thalang, Chang Wat Phuket 83110, Thailand, in Phuket. Getting around Phuket: Grab (widely available); Tuk-tuks (fixed routes, negotiate).
Location Info
169 ม 3 Thep Krasattri Rd, Tambon Si Sunthon, Amphoe Thalang, Chang Wat Phuket 83110, Thailandwww.facebook.com/FestivalphuketVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Phuket International Airport (HKT) receives direct international flights. Ferries connect from Krabi and Koh Phi Phi.
Getting around
- •Grab (widely available)
- •Tuk-tuks (fixed routes, negotiate)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Airport bus to Phuket Town
- •Ferry & speedboat to nearby islands
Where to stay near San Chao Tha Ruea
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places
Ban Phraya Wichit Songkhram Ruins
Ancient ruins of a historical Thai official's residence tucked away in Phuket's Thalang district.
Thalang National Museum
A newly renovated museum tracing Phuket's history through archaeology, trade, and cultural traditions in a well-presented, modern setting.
Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon Monument
Two sisters, one Burmese siege, 1785 - and a roadside stop that takes ten minutes but sticks with you.
Wat Sri Sunthon
A quiet Buddhist temple in Thalang with a striking golden reclining Buddha atop its roof.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Go at 08:30 or don't bother, the Emerald Buddha's courtyards fill up fast and stay full until closing.
Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.
Where to stay near San Chao Tha Ruea
Find hotels in Phuket on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Expedia
Bundle & save
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January
Getting there
Phuket International Airport (HKT) receives direct international flights. Ferries connect from Krabi and Koh Phi Phi.
Getting around
- •Grab (widely available)
- •Tuk-tuks (fixed routes, negotiate)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Airport bus to Phuket Town
- •Ferry & speedboat to nearby islands