Sitting atop the Nakkerd Hills, between Chalong and Kata,Big Buddha is fast becoming one of the must see attractions on Phuket. Newly constructed, this is a fantastic example of a large Buddha statue, placed on the highest point available to overlook the Buddhist people below it. Most large inhabited areas in Southern Thailand feature what has come to be known as a “Big Buddha”, but the one found on Phuket is the newest by far.

This new landmark can be quite tricky to find. It is located at the top of Chao Fao Road West. There are actually a pair of Buddhas, the white, concrete Big Buddha, and a smaller brass one. The large Buddha is 45 metres tall, the smaller brass one is only 12 metres tall.

The major benefit of making the trek up the hills to Big Buddha is to view the island of Phuket from its highest point. The viewpoint commands a 360 degree view across the entire island; definitely well worth visiting for this if nothing else.

From the top you can look down across Kata and Karon beaches away to the south, Patong Town as well as the fishing village of Chalong over to the east, and the azure blue waters of the Andaman Ocean to the west.

The best way to visit Big Buddha is to rent a private taxi for two or three hours. This will cost less than 1,000 Baht, and is the easiest way to get to the top of the hill which Big Buddha is perched upon. A cheaper option is to take a tuk tuk. Whichever option you choose is well worth the cost, you will be amazed by the view you will be rewarded by when you reach the top.