Phuket Big Buddha (2026): 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, a concrete statue clad in 12,000+ white Burmese marble tiles (sponsored by donations). Standing 45 m tall (base 25.45 m wide) on Nakkerd Hill (~400 m above sea level), it was built via public donations from 2004 to 2015 (official opening 2015).  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 faraway 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 the 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 and 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 trek the jungle path from Karon Beach (~2 km, moderate difficulty) 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/Kata/Karon: Taxi/Grab (THB 400–600/₹970–1,450, 20–40 min via Chalong Circle → Soi Yot Sane 1 → 6 km uphill road). Scooter rental: THB 300–500/day (₹725–1,210), 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: 30–45 min taxi (THB 500–700/₹1,210–1,695). From Airport: 45–60 min (THB 800–1,100/₹1,935–2,665).  The route leads via Chalong and then up Nakkerd Hill. 
• By Scooter/Motorbike: A common option for travellers; the road is paved but winding—drive carefully.
• Hiking: ~2 km jungle trail from Karon Beach (moderate, 45–60 min; start early) to Big Buddha, which 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 scrutinise 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, burn incense, 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 hike 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 lit 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 the 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 a beach & temple visit.
• Chalong Bay Viewpoint & Pier — From the hilltop, you can spot Chalong Bay; it's 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 the 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 the nearby local restaurant for brunch/lunch in Chalong
 Afternoon — Continue to the beach (Kata or Karon) or visit another hill viewpoint

This itinerary allows you to beat the heat, avoid crowds, and combine spiritual sightseeing and 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, and 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 recognizable 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 customized itineraries, seamless bookings, and stress-free travel experiences.