The Phuket Big Buddha is a 45-metre seated Buddha atop Nakkerd Hill near Chalong, officially named Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Eknakiri. Built of concrete clad in white Burmese marble that gleams in the sun, it is famous for its 360-degree panorama over the island. Entry is free, and it remains an active Buddhist temple and place of worship.
The 45-metre white-marble seated Buddha and a 360-degree island panorama from Nakkerd Hill
Sweeping views over Chalong Bay, Rawai and the Kata-Karon coast, ideal at sunrise or sunset
Staircases and terraces below the main statue, plus the temple grounds and prayer hall
The smaller golden Buddha beside the main statue, wish bells and hanging wind chimes
Declared the 'Buddhist Treasure of Phuket' by Thailand's Supreme Patriarch in 2008
Good to know
RulesAs an active temple, the dress code is strictly enforced. You must cover shoulders and upper arms and knees (no tank tops, crop tops, short shorts or mini-skirts); guards will stop you at the gate if underdressed. Free sarongs and shawls are lent out for those who arrive uncovered. (Verify latest.)
MannersRemove your shoes before entering the prayer hall and lower temple areas, and observe Buddhist etiquette: don't point your feet at the Buddha or monks, and keep your voice low.
CautionEntry is always free. Anyone selling 'Big Buddha tickets' is running a scam, so politely refuse. On-site donations are voluntary; decline politely if pressured to buy small Buddha figures or amulets or to give a large donation.
SafetyA troop of wild macaque monkeys frequents the descent staircase and paths on the Karon side and will snatch snacks, sunglasses and hats. Don't feed them and keep belongings held close.
CautionThe summit road is steep and winding, so many Grab/Bolt and metered taxis refuse to pick up at the top. Ask your driver to wait (a waiting fee of about 100-150 THB is standard) or pre-book a return ride before descending, and compare app/metered fares against negotiated taxi prices.
SeasonThere is little shade at the top, making midday very hot. Early morning or late afternoon (sunset) is cooler and less crowded, though sunset brings heavy parking and crowds, so allow extra time. In the rainy season (May-Oct) afternoon showers can reduce visibility.
Practical info
Free entry (donations optional). Hours vary by season, roughly 8:00 AM to about 7:30 PM, but they change, so verify the latest before going. The site was closed for a long period after an August 2024 landslide and reopened in March 2026; the main statue, staircases and terraces are open, though some lower exhibition and facility construction may still be ongoing.
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