A Comprehensive Guide to Discovering Phuket City’s Old Town, Chalong Temple, and Great Buddha Van Tour

When in Phuket, it can be difficult to decide where to visit and what to do, with the city being filled with countless activities. Phuket City’s Old Town, Chalong Temple, and Great Buddha Van Tour is an excellent option, combining local culture and history with a fun, interactive experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will examine exactly what guests can expect from taking this tour. By exploring what the tour includes, what you should wear and bring, where and when to meet your tour operator and more, you will have all the information necessary to make the most of your time in the city.

What Is Included in the Tour?

The tour begins by exploring the city’s Old Town, where participants have the opportunity to get a better understanding of Phuket’s culture. Guests will be able to get an up close look at buildings that have been part of the community for over 100 years, as well as see some of the city’s murals. After your tour of the Old Town, you will make your way to Chalong Temple. Chalong is Phuket’s most important temple, and guests will learn about its history and importance to the community. During the tour, you will also be able to get up close and personal with some of the temple’s symbolic artifacts and sculptures.

The last stop on the tour is Phuket’s Great Buddha Van, which houses the city’s biggest seated golden Buddha statue. Standing at 45 meters high and surrounded by many smaller Buddha sculptures, this attraction is sure to leave a lasting impression. After learning about the Great Buddha’s history, guests will then be taken to one of Phuket’s best viewpoints to take in the sweeping views of the city.

Particulars of the Tour

Duration

The tour lasts around 4 hours in total.

Age Restrictions

This tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, however children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for this tour is at Old Town Market, off Yaowarat Road.

What You Should Wear

It is advised that guests dress conservatively for this tour as a sign of respect for local beliefs and culture. Clothing should be lightweight but cover any important body parts: no shorts or tank tops are allowed. It is also highly recommended that guests bring sunglasses and a hat to protect from the heat of the sun and a small pack or backpack for any items you may need throughout the day.

What You Should Bring

As mentioned above, it is strongly recommended that you bring a small backpack with a bottle of water, sunscreen, and any snacks you may need throughout the day. Additionally, you should bring your passport as proof of identity and a small amount of money in case you need it during your visit.

Booking Your Tour

If you are interested in booking a tour, it is best to do so online in advance as spots tend to fill up quickly. GetYourGuide is one website through which you can book trusted tours like this one. Prices vary depending on the size of your party and typically range between 600-800 baht per person. Book your tour today and prepare yourself for a truly unique experience!

Visiting Old Town, Chalong Temple, and Great Buddha Van is a wonderful way to explore and discover all that Phuket has to offer. From exploring historical buildings to visiting impressive sacred sites and monuments, this tour provides a comprehensive look at some of the city’s most popular attractions. With experienced tour guides leading each group as well as a safe environment for all ages, you can count on this tour being an enjoyable and educational experience for everyone involved. With enough planning done in advance and careful consideration of what should be worn and brought with you on your trip, you are sure to enjoy this excursion to its fullest!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Phuket City

Phuket City is a beautiful island city in Thailand, rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. With a mix of modern and traditional architecture, exotic cuisine, and mesmerizing beaches, it attracts people from all over the world. If you are visiting Phuket City, don’t miss out on the chance to explore the hidden gems and unique experiences that locals love. Here’s your insider’s guide to discovering the city in a whole new way.

Local Attractions

Phuket City is home to lots of interesting places that locals adore. Instead of visiting the typical tourist spots, let’s dive into some hidden gems that will make your trip even more exciting.

One of our favorites is Laem Hin Pier. It’s a quaint fishing village where you can watch the local fishermen prepare their catch of the day, get a glance of the traditional Thai lifestyle, and enjoy a fresh seafood meal right by the water’s edge.

Another local treasure is Khao Rang Viewpoint, situated on the hills overlooking Phuket City. It offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, a great spot to watch the sunset and relax away from the crowds.

Dining Spots

When it comes to food, Phuket City offers a mouthwatering variety of cuisine that reflects the city’s cultural diversity. Settled by Chinese, Malays, Indians, and Thais, there is no shortage of amazing food options. For a delicious and authentic Thai culinary adventure, head to Phuket Old Town Night Market. It runs every Sunday and provides a unique opportunity to taste the city’s street-food scene.

Another local favorite is Raya Restaurant, serving traditional Phuketian dishes and seafood. This establishment has been around since 1995, and it’s a perfect place to try a variety of classic dishes.

Cultural Experiences

No trip to Phuket would be complete without experiencing the city’s vibrant culture and traditions. One great way to immerse yourself in Thai culture is by learning to cook Thai cuisine. Baipai Cooking School offers classes learning to make traditional Thai dishes from scratch and is a valuable opportunity to understand Thai food better.

Another great cultural experience is Phuket Fantasea Show. This is a unique cultural theme park that includes a massive stage show, traditional Thai games, and authentic food offerings.

Local History

Phuket City has a rich history dating back to the early 18th century when it was a major trading hub. A lesser-known but fascinating piece of its past is the story of the Chinese Shrines. Over 200 years ago, Chinese immigrants settled in the area, and with them came their faith and beliefs. The seven Chinese Shrines, intricately designed, are an essential part of Phuket’s culture and history.

Another fascinating piece of the city’s history is the Sino-Portuguese architecture that you can see throughout Phuket’s Old Town. It tells the story of Phuket’s historical trade routes, and many buildings have been restored and converted into boutiques, cafes, and galleries.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, might we suggest an island-hopping tour to some of Phuket’s lesser-known islands? Koh Yao Yai and Koh Yao Noi are two of these islands where you can experience the lush greenery, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear water in a tranquil setting.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is a visit to the Bang Pae Waterfall. It’s a bit of a hike, but the surroundings are stunning, and you can even go for a dip in the refreshing water.

Phuket City is an enchanting destination full of surprises and unique experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, we hope that this insider’s guide will help you discover something new about this magical city.