Big Buddha

This spiritual landmark exudes a timeless quality, which makes it all the more surprising to discover that Phuket’s famous Big Buddha was actually constructed in the 21st century.The 46-metre high, 24-metre wide statue of luminous Burmese marble was built after the 2004 tsunami caused widespread damage and loss of life across the whole region. Paid for entirely by donations, the Buddha’s body is inscribed with positive messages of peace and hope in adversity, many of which have been contributed by the donors themselves.As you enter the site, a small museum describes the history of the project and its importance in restoring the spirits of the local community in the face of such devastation. The Big Buddha is dedicated to the King of Thailand and a smaller Buddha statue nearby is made of shimmering brass and dedicated to the Queen.Entry to the site is free of charge, but many people choose to show their support for the aims and objectives of the project by making a donation or purchasing a souvenir before starting the climb to the base of the Big Buddha itself. Here you will be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular views across the beaches of Kata and Karon to Chalong Bay and Phuket Town in the distance. The sunset panoramas in particular will live long in the memory, although the solitude of early morning before the crowds arrive can be equally unforgettable.The site is around half an hour’s scenic drive by tour bus or taxi from Phuket Town. The route is well signposted and traverses spectacular scenery. For a spiritually uplifting experience, climb the 5.6-kilometre path through the rainforest to the site entrance, then replenish your energies with a delicious seafood meal at the Nakkerd Sea View Restaurant.