The Big Buddha, Phuket
Perched on a hilltop in the Karon district of Phuket, this iconic Buddhist temple is home to one of Thailand's most recognisable landmarks — a 45-metre marble-clad Buddha statue that dominates the skyline for miles around. The sheer scale and craftsmanship of the statue make a strong impression up close, while the elevated position rewards visitors with panoramic views stretching across Phuket's coastline, forests, and surrounding sea. The site is an active place of worship as well as a major cultural attraction, so the atmosphere carries both spiritual significance and a genuine sense of grandeur. Visitors should be aware that access to the front of the statue has been restricted in recent times, with the main viewing area currently closed. Access is currently permitted from the rear of the statue, which still offers the same remarkable hilltop views and allows visitors to appreciate the structure's scale. The drive up to the site adds to the experience, passing roadside attractions along the winding route to the summit. A cafe and gift shop are available on site. As a place of worship, modest dress is required — shoulders and knees should be covered, and sarongs are typically available to borrow at the entrance. The hilltop is exposed and breezy, which offers welcome relief from Phuket's heat, though it can make the summit feel quite windy. Visiting early in the morning helps avoid the busiest crowds and catches the clearest light for views across the island.
Book tours & tickets in Phuket
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around The Big Buddha, Phuket — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After The Big Buddha, Phuket, round out your day in Phuket with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
Visiting the Big Buddha in Phuket was still a memorable experience, even though the main area was unfortunately closed when I went. Visitors are currently only allowed to view it from the back side, so you can’t properly explore the full statue up close like before. That was a bit disappointing, especially if it’s your first time visiting and you’re expecting full access. However, the location itself is absolutely scenic. The viewpoint offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and the beaches, and that alone makes the trip worthwhile. The elevated position gives you wide, open views of Phuket, and it’s a great spot for photos, especially on a clear day. The peaceful hilltop atmosphere also adds to the experience.
Yes, the access to the front side is still closed but you will get to visit it from the back side of the statue. The views from here are absolutely breathtaking and the breeze is strong! The road leading to it is nice and winding but be careful when going downhill. Beware of the nearby monkeys as they will definitely grab your food and stuff. There is ample of parking. The washroom is okay! Overall I would rate this place as good and must visit if you have rented a scooter or car.
The Big Buddha is a must-visit. The scale of the marble statue is incredible, and the craftsmanship is superb. But the real highlight for me was the 360-degree panoramic view of the island—you can see both Chalong Bay and Karon Beach from the top. It feels very peaceful and spiritual. I’ve attached some videos to show the scale, but you really have to be there to feel the atmosphere. Simply breathtaking
Also Popular in Phuket
Patong Beach
Phuket's most famous 3km beach on the Andaman Sea, buzzing with water sports, dining, and nightlife.
Mu Ko Similan National Park
A remote national park archipelago off Phuket's coast, famed for turquoise waters, white sand, and world-class diving.
Ko Racha Yai
A car-free island near Phuket with crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and resorts for all budgets.
Ko Yao Yai
A largely undeveloped island in Phang Nga Bay offering secluded beaches, dive sites, and peaceful rural scenery.
The Big Buddha, Phuket: Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Big Buddha, Phuket worth visiting?
The Big Buddha, Phuket holds a 4.6★ rating from 37,805 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Phuket.
When is the best time to visit The Big Buddha, Phuket?
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 The Big Buddha, Phuket located?
The Big Buddha, Phuket is at Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand, in Phuket. Getting around Phuket: Grab (widely available); Tuk-tuks (fixed routes, negotiate).
Location Info
Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, ThailandTours & tickets nearby
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
Where to stay near The Big Buddha, Phuket
Find hotels in Phuket on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Free cancellation on most rooms
- No booking fees
- Compare live prices
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Best rates in Asia
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Hotels.com Rewards
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
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.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok's most sacred temple sits within the Grand Palace complex, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.
Doi Suthep Temple
A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.
The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.
Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan
An iconic riverside Buddhist temple adorned with intricate porcelain-tiled spires in Bangkok's old city.
Where to stay near The Big Buddha, Phuket
Find hotels in Phuket on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Free cancellation on most rooms
- No booking fees
- Compare live prices
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Best rates in Asia
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Hotels.com Rewards
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Tours & tickets nearby
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