Top Rated Attractions in Phuket

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.

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.

According to legend, Wat Phra Thong houses a golden Buddha image that emerged from beneath the earth many years ago. The story tells us about a man whose son died mysteriously after tying his buffalo to what he thought was a post but which was actually the conical peak of Buddha. The golden image was revealed to the man in a dream but attempts to dig it up failed. Villagers covered the exposed part of the image with a plaster bust of Buddha's head and shoulders. It can still be seen today.

Various historical buildings made in Sino-Portuguese style dot the streets of Old Phuket Town - a charming neighborhood of Phuket. Being a hub for tourists has made this neighborhood naturally home to many hostels, hotels, restaurants, cafes, galleries and bars. Its streets are further lined with shops selling everything from souvenirs and handicraft to snacks and gifts. Old Phuket Town is also a multicultural locale that is home to people from various nationalities.

Pithak Chinpracha House Museum is a private colonial-style mansion which was built in 1903 by its original owner after whom the structure has been named after. The mansion opened its doors to the public after his death, giving visitors a sneak peek into Sino-British architecture. The house has been renovated over the years, which is why it still is in prime condition. The house includes a courtyard which acts as the building's centerpiece, which is where the women of the house usually did all the cooking and washing. Each room is a preserved piece of history with their walls covered with old pictures, priceless artifacts, ceramicware and antique furniture shipped in from different parts of Europe and China.

Being a memorable spiritual site in Phuket, Jui Tui Shrine forms a highlight of the annual Phuket Vegetarian festival. Over the years, the temple building has been attractively renovated with beautiful idols of the Chinese Gods. Tourists visiting this spot can take photographs inside the hall. The locals have a strong belief in this temple as they visit to seek blessings from the Chinese lord during lifetime events such as birthdays, weddings, baby birth etc.