[:en]Bangtao Beach[:ro]Bangtao Beach[:]
Phuket is Thailand’s largest island and one of the most popular destinations for beach lovers with very warm water.
In this blog post, we would like to present to you what you can do in Phuket excluding visiting the surrounding islands. Why? Because there are too many articles on this topic. They are the main attraction. Island hopping. Day trips. James Bond. Phi Phi. Practically for them, you are in Phuket (or even in Thailand).
So we decided to put the light on other tourist attractions of Phuket.
There are more than 30 beaches in Phuket, most of them on the west coast. Fine sand and warm blue water will make you fall in love instantly. And what can be more beautiful than enjoying a coconut while looking at the sun as it sinks into the water?
The beach of Bangtao is the longest beach on the island, here you will surely find a quiet place, just you and the sea.
A truly unique experience! And the only way you should enjoy the company of these fantastic animals. There are several organizations in Phuket who have opened their own sanctuary to protect the elephants. We chose Green – Elephant Sanctuary Park Phuket, after having carefully studied several flyers and searched the internet for more information about them. But they all offer about the same experience. You can feed elephants, massage them with mud, wash, and hug.
Avoid places that allow you to ride on Elephants or in which they are kept in chains!
Cost for Elephant Sanctuary:
Half Day: 2500 Baht (70 euro)
45 feet high and set on Nakkerd Hill, the Big Buddha Statue is visible even from Phuket City, 17 km away. The Big Buddha is truly impressive when you first see it. And the fact that it is covered in white marble that shines in the sunlight makes it even more spectacular. The statue itself is finished, but the rest of the complex is still under construction, all based on donations. This is the reason why you will see everywhere boxes for donations and souvenirs.
Besides, the fact that you will remain stunned at the sight of the statue, this location also offers 360 views of the island.
Entry fee: Free
In Thailand, you will always hear birds singing around you, but rarely you will have the opportunity to see them up close because they are hiding on the top of the trees. If you want to admire the colour and beauty of different birds closer here is the perfect place. If you are not afraid, you can even feed them. And in the ticket price is included the participation in a small spectacle. (the last show takes place at 15:30)
Entry fee: 500 Baht (14 euro)
If you have not seen monkeys before, here is the perfect place. The monkey’s hill is just a few minutes away by car from Phuket. And if you have enough courage to feed them, there is a store at the base of the hill where you can buy some hazelnuts and bananas. We just preferred to admire them and take pictures.
*If you decide to come here with some food, be sure to give it to the monkey. When you give a banana you have to let her take it. Do not hold it tight. Do not play/pretend to take it back, otherwise, it increases the risk the monkey scratching or biting you. And let’s not forget that after all, they are wild animals. If you were attacked, there’s a whole series of expensive vaccines that you have to do.
The whole island is filled with greenery and quiet places. One of those is the Botanical Garden. An oasis that you can walk around among countless plant species. Tropical palm trees, herb garden, fragrant plants, orchards, orchid pavilions, and more.
All 12 gardens are carefully arranged to the last detail. And everywhere you will find sculptures that animate and perfectly complement the soundings.
Entry fee: 500 Baht (14 euro)
Wat Chalong is one of the most important temples in Phuket. And visiting at least one temple is a must do in Thailand to better understand the culture. But also because you will be surprised by their beauty.
If on your trip through Thailand you are going to get to Bangkok, the temples there are more spectacular. (so you can skip over the Phuket temples if you want to save your money on transport.)
Entry fee: Free
I’ve been debating for a long time if I want to add the next tourist attraction on this list. Since it is not for the weak of heart and we don’t think it’s an attraction that deserves to be promoted. (the animals did not seem too happy).
We arrived here on the recommendation of a friend who said it’s amazing, it is a sanctuary, the animals would be released and an experience that should not be missed. The experience itself was super and heartbreaking at the same time. And the truth was completely different. To get a better understanding of what these animals go through, you can read more in this article from National Geographic about wildlife tourism. So it’s up to you if you want to visit:
If you wanted to see a tiger and have the opportunity to pet and feel it’s fur among your fingers, Tiger Kingdom is the place to do this in Phuket. The tigers here are raised in captivity and you will be constantly assisted and guided by personnel for your safety. To admire closely these magnificent creatures was wonderful. But we were heartbroken to see them caged, where most likely will spend their whole life.
Entry fee: (varies depending on tiger size?!)
Cubs: 1300 Baht (36 euro)
Small / Medium: 900 Baht (25 euro)
Big: 1000 Baht (28 euro)
Which of the above attractions did you visit or want to visit in Phuket?
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