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Resort and Spa – Places to Visit and Explore in Phuket
As the dust settled, a gradual influx of mainland Thais and Chinese immigrants from China and Malaysia, helped add to the ethnic mix, creating a distinctive character of the people who gives Phuket it’s own special charm you see today.
GEOGRAPHY
Located in the sparkling waters of the Andaman Sea, the island of Phuket is 543 square meters, making it the largest island in Thailand.
CLIMATE
Tropical and warm throughout the year, averaging 31°C (88°F) in dry sunny season (November – April) and 25°C (77°F) during the rainy season (May – October). Annual rainfall averages 2500mm and average monthly rainfall is 200mm.
PEOPLE
With a population around 200,000, density is centered around Phuket Town and Patong Beach. They are mostly Chinese, Thai immigrants from mainland and Muslims of Malaysian extractions. 73% of the population is Buddhist, with 23% Muslims and 3% Christians.
DOs & DON’Ts
- Do not go topless in public areas
- It is customary to remove shoes before entering Thai homes and compulsory to remove shoes before entering temples
- Do not wear shorts and singlets when visiting the temple.
- Women should not touch the monks at the temple.
- Do not touch Thais on their head.
- Do not point your feet at someone.
- Do not bring durians into the Resort.
Wat Chalong
Phuket’s most renowned monastery, located south of the island is open to the public during the day. Visitors must note that these grounds are holy and observe a few simple rules: women must cover their bodies well and not touch the monks. Shoes must be removed before entering the temple.
Laem Phrom Thep
Phuket’s most famous view point, Laem Phrom Thep is located at the southern tip of Phuket. Every evening, you can expect to find fleets of tour buses bringing tourists to view the spectacular sunset over the Andaman Sea.
Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre
Visit the world’s first permanent program to rehabilitate captive gibbons. Located in Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, near to the Bang Phae Waterfall (20 minutes drive from Dewa Phuket), captive gibbons (smallest species of apes) are re-trained to survive in the wild. Once ready, they will be
released back to their normal habitat. Open from 10am to 4pm, visitors may also purchase small souvenirs which will go towards keeping the project going or make a small donation.
Phuket Aquarium
This is also Phuket’s marine biological research center. With over 50 observation tanks, touch pool and glass ceiling aquarium, visitors can expect to learn more about marine life and even see some rare species like the electric eel and pirahnas. Open daily from 8.30am to 4pm, admission fee is around Bt100 for adults and Bt50 for children.
Phuket Zoo
Located halfway between Phuket Town and Chalong Circle, this 12 hectare privately owned zoo offers visitors 3 daily shows, and a chance to feed the animals or take photos with the various animals held in captivity. Open daily from 8.30am to 6pm, admission fee is around Bt500 for adults and Bt300 for children.
Cashew Nut Factories
Phuket harvests a wide variety of cashews locally. Visit one of the many factories to see how the kernels are extracted and purchase cashews at reasonable price to take home. Most of these factories also sells local dried food products and Thai spices.
Phuket Orchid Garden and Thai Village
Situated in a tranquil lakeside setting, there are many exotic varieties of orchids, many of which not seen elsewhere. The Village performers present a wide range of Cultural performances focusing on the unique aspects of Phuket.
Phuket Fantasea
Inspired by Thailand’s rich and exotic heritage, Phuket Fantasea not only showcases the charm and beauty of Thailand, but also enriches ancient Thai traditions with the wonder of cutting edge technology and special effects.
Covering an area o f 140 acres, Phuket Fantasea is packed with a multitude of activities from carnivals, games arcade, street entertainers to theatrical show featuring the grace and beauty of Thailand’s myths, mysteries and magic, certain to delight the whole family. Phuket Fantasea is a unique cultural theme complex promising the ultimate in night time entertainment, for the whole family.
Phuket Simon Cabaret
If you are planning a night in Patong, entertain yourself to an extravaganza of a cabaret show, performed by boys who aspire to be girls and are doing at better job at it than the girls. Not to be missed. Evening shows only.
Big Buddha
Perched atop Nakkerd Hills, on the way to Chalong, is Phuket’s newest attraction. The Phra Puttamingmongkol Akenakkiri Buddha as it is officially named is 45 meters high and 25 meters wide. Its surface is covered by white marble and cost more than 30 million Baht to construct. Set on 7.8 hectare, this is not only a stunning view point amidst the green peaceful forest, but also a place of worship.
Thalang National Museum
Located near to the Heroines Sisters Monument, in the center of Phuket, the Thalang Museum contains exhibits covering the history of Phuket which includes the famous battle with Burma. Admission fee is Bt30 for adults and Bt10 for children.
Phuket Seashell Museum
For collectors of shells, this is the place to visit. There is also a shop where you can purchase shell souvenirs. Admission fee is Bt200 for adults and Bt100 for children.
Phuket Stunt Show
Another new attraction to the island, the Phuket Stunt Show offers action packed stunts performed by Asians, Europeans, Australians and North Americans. Featuring 27 meters high dive, pirates fighting with loads of pyrotechnic effects, samoan fire sticks and even comedy, it certainly adds new excitement to the island.
BUNGY JUMPING
For those who dare, this 50 meter thrilling plunge over an old tin-mine is the answer to an adrenaline filled day. You will also receive a certification in recognition of your bravery.
HORSE RIDING
Experience a horse riding adventure in an area of hills, palm trees, lagoon and sandy beaches. Beginners will be accompanied by a stable hand to ensure a smooth, safe and comfortable ride.
PHUKET SHOOTING RANGE
Located at Chalong on southern Phuket, this is a one stop shop for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Activities include rifle shooting, clay shooting, paint ball shooting, BB Gun, archery, go-kart racing, atv adventure, elephant trekking, monkey school and cobra show.
ATV rides, White Water Rafting and Adventure Camps
Explore Phuket and Phang-nga with guides on one of these All Terrain Vehicles (ATV), custom made to enable you to cross water, rough terrain, get down and dirty and have a great time! Same company also offers white water rafting as an option.
