Poachers illegally hunting the gibbons, during the past ten years, has led to the numbers of Gibbon being reduced alarmingly. The Gibbon Rehabilitation Project (GRP), a division of the Wild Animal Rescue Foundation of Thailand (WAR), aims to save gibbons and their rainforest habitat. Visit the GRP at the Bang Pae Waterfall, Pa Khlok, and find out more about how you can help.
It's hard to miss this 45 meter (148 feet) tall marble statue peering down at you as you journey through the south of Phuket. Big Buddha sits serenely atop the hill at the end of Soi Yot Sane 1, which runs off the West Chao Fa Highway in Chalong. Though the statue itself is big enough to be taken in from afar, it's worth heading up to its base to both enjoy the view and learn more about it. Find out just how much concrete and white jade marble did it take to construct the enormous statue, along with many other factoids about its upkeep. Donations to the project are welcomed and, as this is a holy site, conservative dress is strongly encouraged.
Phang Nga Bay straddles the three main districts of Krabi province, and is one of the busiest day-trip spots out of Phuket. There are two popular spots here - with its signature rocky pinnacle, James Bond Island is spectacular and was so named because 'The Man With The Golden Gun', one of the James Bond films, was shot at this island. Ko Panyi, a remarkably beautiful village, the whole of which is built over the water on stilts, is the other attraction that is perfect for a quick lunch and some souvenir shopping.
Located on the outskirts of Phuket Town, Wat Chalong is the largest and most visited Temple of the area. Featuring a gilt statue of Luang Por Chaem and Luang Por Chuang, the temple is considered one of the most beautiful on the island. Chaem and Chuang are monks known for their heroic effort in helping quell the Chinese Coolie rebellion of 1876. The temple has impressive architecture and gives great insight on Buddhism and its practices. For peace of mind and Thai history lesson, visit this sacred spot.
Phuket Trickeye Museum is a fun museum known for its collection of interactive 3D paintings. The collection includes an array of permanent and temporary exhibits which not only lets your creative thoughts flow but also changes the way you visualize art. People usually come here to take photograph themselves as a part of the scene or the picture, leaving with funny and unforgettable memories to cherish.
Situated on the southern tip of Phuket, Kata Beach overlooks the massive Andaman Sea. It is a popular spot for tourists, as well as, locals looking to get some fresh air, take a stroll or go for a swim. At the many cafes and restaurants situated by the beach, you can relish local delicacies while watching the sun slowly set into the sea. While here, you can engage in various water sport activities as well.
Established in 1988, this is the first PADI five-star career development center in Phuket, and one of only two such companies in all of South East Asia. Offers a full range of day-trips and three, four or seven-day live aboard cruises to all the most popular dive sites. They offer the complete range of PADI courses—from Discover Scuba Diving to programmes for diving professionals. The course directors and master instructors are multilingual and committed to personal service, high quality programmes and professional education at affordable prices.
Two Sea Tour is a popular tour operator in Phuket known for their kayak tours around James Bond Island, Panak Island Sea Caves, Hong Island, and the Andaman Sea. The staff and crew are extremely friendly and tend to your every need even though most of them don't speak English fluently. You could either if you wish to travel with a group or book a private boat tour for an intimate voyage around Phuket's famous sights with that special someone. Food and drinks are served on board, with swimming costumes and gear available for rent if you intend to take a dip.
Phuket Provincial Hall lies in a secluded area of the old town, but it still attracts visitors with its spellbinding architecture. Counted as one of the first Thailand buildings constructed as a fortified concrete structure, it is made famous for the intricate grill detailing that accentuates the building exteriors. A gallery surrounds the building and it exhibits some of Phuket's memorable pictures.
Coral Seeker's provide speedboat and snorkeling trips around Phuket's best islands and reefs. Personalized trips (either full or half day) are offered and led by an experienced, English-speaking guide. All of the equipment is provided and the trips include pick-up and return to your accommodation. Sites such as Kai Nok Island and the coral at Phang Nga Bay are visited along with one spectacular cruise that incorporates the area's dramatic limestone caves and mangrove rivers.
John Gray, the original founder, established Sea Canoe in 1983, and pioneered the company into an award winning eco-tour operation first in Hawaii and then Thailand. Their professional, confident guides are willing to pass on what they have learned about the natural history of the area to anyone with an enquiring mind. Sea Canoe Adventures, one of their specialties lasts for one day with a maximum group of eight kayaks. Other longer adventures are available from 3 days to two weeks. Corporate groups are also catered for. A must do while you are in Phuket.
Take a break from your regular schedule and feel the thrill at Flying Hanuman. Breathe in the fresh air as you hop and glide through this tropical forest, you are in for fun here. Spread across 80000 square meters (861112.83 square feet), this park is designed like a tropical forest where you hop from one tree to another through zip lines and brides with the safety equipment. Whether you are on a group trip with your friends or a honeymoon, this park is a must-visit in Phuket.