Phuket Big Buddha: Complete Travel Guide, History, Views & Tips

The Big Buddha — or Phra Phuttha Ming Mongkol Eknakiri as it is officially called — is a giant Buddha statue in the Maravijaya position, made of concrete, and dressed in white Burmese marble tiles. The enormous statue measures 45 meters at the top of Nakkerd Hill (approximately 400 m above sea level), was funded completely through the donations of visitors and local people, and was erected between 2004 and 2017. The whole area encircling the statue is a temple complex: a prayer hall, several smaller Buddha idols, meditation spaces, donation boxes, and an information hall on the statue’s history and building. 

Fun Fact: The Big Buddha can be seen from far away beaches like Kata and Karon because of its height and location — he becomes a silent guardian visible even from very low beneath on a clear day. 

Seasonal Tip: For the most enjoyable visit, choose either early morning (around 7 AM–9 AM) or late afternoon (4 PM–sunset). The light will be softer for pictures, the temperatures cooler, and you can enjoy the great views without the uncomfortable heat of midday sun. In addition, the dry season (November–April) is the most pleasant for clear skies and visiting the area.

• Iconic White Marble Statue: Enrobed in white Burmese marble, the Big Buddha, whose height is 45 m and width at the base is 25.45 m, is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Thailand that instantly gleams when the sun hits it.  
• Spectacular 360° Viewpoint: You receive vast vistas of Phuket Town, Kata & Karon beaches, Chalong Bay, and the Andaman Sea from the top — a wonderful place for sunset or panoramic photography.  
• Peaceful Spiritual Ambience: The temple compound retains peacefulness, a respectful atmosphere — soft dharma music, fluttering Buddhist flags, bells, and places for meditation or silence are done through this.  
• Cultural & Historic Significance: The statue dubbed "Phra Phuttha Ming Mongkol Eknakiri" was erected totally through donations totaling from 2004 and the likes of which are hard to use. 
• Accessible by Road or Hike: You can drive or take a ride on a 6-km winding paved road or — for those seeking thrills — trek a jungle path from Karon Beach (~2.5 km) for a more immersive experience. 
• Free Entry & Donation-Based Maintenance: The traditionally free entry to the site has always been the case — donations are welcomed, and many visitors opt to sponsor a marble tile or leave a small donation for the upkeep.

• From Patong Beach / Kata / Karon: Rent a scooter or taxi — it’s about 30–45 minutes drive, depending on traffic. Use signs toward Chalong Circle → Soi Yot Sane 1 and follow the 6 km uphill road to Nakkerd Hill. 
• From Phuket Town / Airport: Approximately 40–60 minutes by car or ride-share. The route leads via Chalong and then up Nakkerd Hill. 
• By Scooter / Motorbike: Common option for travellers; road is paved but winding — drive carefully.
• By Hiking (Adventure Option): For active travellers — a jungle-trail hike (~2.5 km) from Karon Beach to Big Buddha offers a scenic alternative to road travel.

1. Appreciate the gigantic white marble Buddha statue of 45 meters, walk around its base, go up the stairs for different views and scrutinize the intricate workmanship.
2. See the 360° heavenly views — from the viewpoint platform, you will be able to see southern Phuket's coastline, hills, and sea—best for taking pictures at sunset or sunrise.
3. Explore the temple halls and areas of prayer—ring some bells, say hello to the smaller Buddha statues, incense burning, or enjoy silence for contemplation.
4. Visit the temple grounds and small shrines—they conceal smaller statues, meditation sites, and worship corners around the main statue.
5. If you are fit and want an adventure, take the hike from Karon Beach—a 2.3 -- 2.5 km that goes through jungles and local villages and leads to the big Buddha—the less popular but more exciting route.
6. Get stunning photos of the golden hour—early in the morning or late in the afternoon, the white marble and broad landscape view are lighted in a very beautiful way.

• Entry to Big Buddha: Free — Walking up and viewing the statue has no official fee. 
• Donations Welcome — Many visitors contribute money or sponsor a marble tile as a mark of respect and support for maintenance. 
• Dress Code: Modest clothes required (shoulders and knees covered). Free sarongs/cover-ups are often available at entrance if needed.

• Wat Chalong — Phuket’s largest and most revered Buddhist temple, close to Big Buddha; a popular stop for cultural tours.
• Kata Beach & Karon Beach — Beautiful beaches located 15–20 minutes downhill, great for combining beach + temple visit.
• Chalong Bay Viewpoint & Pier — From the hilltop you can spot Chalong Bay; good for boat trips and aerial photos.
• Local Hilltop Restaurants — Scenic local eateries along the route to Nakkerd Hill, perfect for a meal with a view.

08:30 AM — Depart from your hotel (Patong/Kata/Karon)
 09:00 AM — Arrive at Big Buddha; explore statue and prayer halls
 10:00 AM — Enjoy panoramic views, take photos, ring bells, relax
 10:45 AM — Visit small shrines, temple complex, souvenir stalls
 11:30 AM — Descend to nearby local restaurant for brunch/lunch in Chalong
 Afternoon — Continue to beach (Kata or Karon) or visit another hill viewpoint

This itinerary allows you to beat the heat, avoid crowds, and combine spiritual sightseeing + beach time in one comfortable half-day.

• Gaze up at the huge white marble Buddha statue and explore the base.
• Enjoy sunrise or sunset views from the hilltop — panoramic sea & coastline vistas.
• Participate in temple rituals — ring bells, light incense, pay respect, meditate.
• Hike up from Karon Beach for a nature-filled approach and rewarding finale.
• Combine with a beach visit or Chalong day tour for a balanced Phuket experience.

Big Buddha, Phuket, is the most recognisable landmark — visible from much of the south and an iconic photo spot. The gigantic white-marble statue and the lovely views of the southern part of the island give a mixture of religion, beautiful nature, and culture. If you are looking for peace, or if you want to take in the whole landscape at once, or if you need an unforgettable trip away from the mentioned beach crowds, the Buddha represents a classic, uplifting, and profoundly gratifying part of the island that will remain in your memories long after you have left. Planning your Phuket trip? Book curated Phuket tour packages from PickYourTrail for customised itineraries, seamless bookings, and stress-free travel experiences.