7 tips for visiting Big Buddha in Phuket

The Big Buddha, Phuket, is opened from 6am – 7.30pm daily, meaning it is accessible during both sunrise and sunset time. Opening times may vary during public holidays.
If you would prefer visiting this beautiful location when it is less crowded, sunrise is an idyllic and peaceful time to visit. We would recommend arriving no later than 6.15am to catch the majestic glow of the sun rising from the Big Buddha.


If you are not a morning person – do not worry! The Big Buddha is just as stunning throughout the day.

By road:

The roads to the Big Buddha are well maintained, with many tourists choosing to drive there.


If you decide to drive, whether that is by car or by scooter; it is essential to have an idea of the distance from where you are staying on the island to where the Big Buddha is located:


Patong to Big Buddha Phuket: 23km
Phuket Town to Big Buddha Phuket: 17km
Nai Harn to Big Buddha Phuket: 15km
Rawai to Big Buddha Phuket: 10km
Kata to Big Buddha Phuket: 13km


Your hotel concierge would also be able to assist you when organizing transfers, so do not hesitate to ask for assistance.


Tip: the cheapest way to get to the Big Buddha is by renting a scooter - at around 200THB per day.


By walking:

There are also two potential trails leading up to the Big Buddha.

The first option is to walk up the main road leading to the Big Buddha Phuket, beginning at Chaofah Road, Chalong. You will quickly notice that many, particularly those training for Muay Thai around the area, opt to run this route for training and to challenge themselves. This route is longer than the hillside route, but you will be rewarded with exceptional views and also an opportunity to check out some scenic restaurants along the 5.7km road.


Alternatively, you could opt to take the relatively easy hillside route, beginning opposite Baan Karon Resort, on Patak Road, Karon Beach. The climb is approximately 2.5km, according to Google Maps, as you follow along a peaceful dirt-road which allows for incredible views over-looking the beaches of the South of Phuket. Regardless, be sure to wear sensible foot-wear.

It is totally free to visit the Big Buddha, however, we would recommend making a small contribution to their donation box as a kind gesture, as the Big Buddha Phuket was built entirely from donations.

The Big Buddha Phuket is in fact an active temple, meaning you will often hear services and melodic chanting coming from the Big Buddha itself. Be aware of your surroundings, be respectful and do not cause disruptions during your visit.


At quieter times it is also possible to get blessed by one of the many monks at the temple. If you get the opportunity to be blessed by a monk, remember to be courteous and treat them with respect, deliver a Wai (a traditional Thai greeting) to them, and if you are a woman in particular, do not touch them as it is highly inappropriate in Thai culture.


Remember to remove shoes before entering the Big Buddha, a courtesy in Thai culture when entering any active temples. And do not point your feet towards Big Buddha as it is regarded as highly offensive. The feet are viewed as the dirtiest and lowest point of the body, so the soles in particular should never be pointed at anyone, especially a Buddha, a sacred symbol in Thai culture.

There are often food / beverage vendors around the car park before the entrance, however, we would recommend stopping at one of the panoramic sea-view restaurants on the journey up Nakkerd Hill itself. You can’t miss them. Stop by for a bite to eat and a view that will take your breath away.


Finally, on the topic of food – do NOT feed the monkeys around the Big Buddha. The groundskeepers work very hard to deter the monkeys and keep them away from visitors. It is best to not interact with them.