Phuket Big Buddha

Phuket Big Buddha Phuket's Big Buddha has become one of the island's most important and revered landmarks. The image sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and at 45 metres high it is easily seen from far away. The lofty site offers the best 360 degrees views of the island (think sweeping vistas of Phuket Town, Kata, Karon beaches, Chalong Bay, Cape Phromthep, Ao Makham and more.)

Close up to the image itself it is very peaceful and the only noises you will hear are the tinkling of small bells and the yellow Buddhist flags in the compound flapping in the wind plus soft background dharma music.

Big Buddha

Known among Thais as the Phra Puttamingmongkol Akenakkiri Buddha in full, it is 25 meters across at the base. The whole body is layered with beautiful white Burmese marble that shines in the sun, making it a natural symbol of hope. Though it is not yet 100% complete it certainly is worth a visit as the site, the views, and the actual image itself are all breathtaking.

The project had its hiccups, not least of which was battling through a mountain of red tape required to get permits to build in virgin forest at a height above the usual building limit. But the paperwork was finally completed and construction began in February last year.

Building Faith

Dear Desire,
Here we meet again. We were here together in 2005 and I hope to be back again some time. Until then, rest in peace.
For Desire, an incredible woman (1931-2008)
From your loving husband, Craig and family.

This touching message is typical of those written on the thousands of bricks and white marble slabs used to make up the image. On a good day more than 1,000 people visit the site, many of whom donate money for building materials and write messages on the purchased items for good luck and in memory of passed-away loved ones.

Funds for the massive structure are coming entirely from donations. “This project is huge and requires a lot of money. But so far we are managing just fine. I’m amazed at the amount of help we have received from everyone who knows about this project. It seems they all want to be a part of it,” explained Suporn Wanichkul, president of the Mingmongkol Faith 45 foundation, which was formed to build the Giant Buddha.

Donation Boxes

The smaller Buddha

Near the base of the Big Buddha, there is a hall displaying the project's history, some Buddhist teachings and countless donation boxes. For some visitors the donation boxes, with their incessant requests for cash, can be a real eyesore and a bit of a disappointment to see in such a holy place.

But whether visitors like it or not the whole project relies on public donations. So far about 80 million baht has been raised and currently the project is trying to raise another 30 million baht to finish off the landscaping, build a dharma learning center, tidy up the viewpoints, and to build a wall around the base of the Big Buddha.

At the end, the project is expected to cost a total of about 150 million baht, including the road up to the site.

Practical Information

How to get there

The road leading up to the Big Buddha is off Chao Fa Road East near Chalong. There are many red-and-white signs indicating where it is. Turn down Soi Yodsane and simply follow the indications for the next six kilometres up the hill. You can’t miss it.

What to Wear

Avoid beachwear, short skirts and T-shirts with offensive texts or images. If you feel you have dressed a little too daringly for a religious site you can always ask for a sarong to cover up with from the site centre, free of charge.

Opening Hours

From 08:00 – 19:30. If you want to catch the sunset from one of Thailand's best spots, try to be there before 18:30

Did You Know

a) Nakkerd Sea View Restaurant is located near the Big Buddha and is a nice place to chill out after visiting the site. The food there is reasonable in terms of taste and price and the view, of course, is wonderful.

b) The road to Nakkerd Hills is in good condition, most parts are newly built but it has many curves and some steep climbs. Some young tourists enjoy hiking up, even though it usually takes them over an hour to reach the top.

Read more about the history of Phuket Big Buddha.

By Rungtip Hongjakpet Izmen

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