Surin Circle Clock Tower
Standing at a central roundabout in Phuket Old Town, this Sino-Portuguese style clock tower was erected in 2003 on a site previously occupied by a radio mast. It serves as one of the town's most recognisable landmarks, drawing visitors into a part of Phuket that sits well away from the beach resort strips. The tower's architecture complements the colourful heritage buildings that line the surrounding streets, making the immediate area a popular spot for photography and a natural starting point for exploring the old town on foot. The atmosphere around the roundabout is genuinely local, with everyday traffic, street vendors, and small businesses operating in the vicinity. Visitors tend to find the area peaceful compared to Phuket's busier tourist zones, and the surrounding sois offer Sino-Portuguese shophouses, local restaurants, and independent shops worth exploring at a relaxed pace. Good to know: The clock tower sits within a functioning roundabout and is accessible as an outdoor landmark at any hour, with no entry requirements or fees. Daytime visits allow for the best appreciation of the surrounding architecture and street life, while late afternoon light works well for photography. The old town is compact and walkable, so the clock tower makes a practical orientation point when exploring the wider heritage district on foot.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Surin Circle Clock Tower, round out your day in Phuket with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Phuket old town land mark grate spot for colorful photos and videos.
One of Phuket landmarks. I took a video of traffic around the roundabout. It was almost 6pm on a weekday. The traffic was not too bad at all. All cars shared the way in a quite neat order. It was peaceful to stand by and observed the town.
Just stumbled upon this amazing clock tower in Phuket Old Town, it's really charming! The architecture around it is so beautiful, with all those colorful Sino-Portuguese buildings. I spent a couple of hours just wandering around, soaking it all in, there are plenty of great cafes and shops nearby too. Definitely worth a visit if you're ever in the area, it's a lovely spot/area.
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.
Also Popular in Phuket
Patong Beach
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Mu Ko Similan National Park
This serene national park features white-sand beaches & vibrant coral reefs popular among divers.
Ko Racha Yai
No cars exist on this tiny island with a number of resorts pitched at all budgets & sandy beaches.
Ko Yao Yai
Large inhabited island in the Ko Yao Archipelago known for its beaches & dive sites.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
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Doi Suthep Temple
Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi
The Grand Palace
Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.

Pattaya Walking Street
Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.
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