A thought is all you need to pack and move to the next destination where you can enjoy to the fullest. If your idea of having fun is some water sports, some cerulean waters, a bit of alcohol to give you that high, Phuket then would be your idyllic place.
The reason why just a thought could get you here is the budget! You can travel to Phuket in a minimum budget and go to any higher limit to enjoy the largest place in Thailand proffering luxury to the tourists.
Things to do & Places to visit in Phuket
Phang Nga Bay:
Visiting the Phang Nga Bay is usual for the tourists when they come to Phuket as it boasts of some natural limestone cliffs, and countless water activities to enjoy your day. The Bay is made of 40 natural islands that come from the sea making it a distinctive landscape. You will be amazed to see the caves, mangroves and erect limestone cliffs. Enjoy boating and fish spotting along with the blue skies and unusually green waters.
How to reach:
There are two ways to reach the place, so if you want to reach quickly from Phuket use a taxi which costs ฿1800 – ฿2200 and takes 1h 20m. Alternatively, you may opt for a direct bus that departs from Phuket Bus Terminal 2 and arrives at Phang Nga.
Best Time to visit:
The best time to visit is December and January as the weather is cool and the air is fresh.
Things to do/top attractions:
Cave adventure, the iconic James Bond Island and the floating village of Koh Panyee would enthrall you
Where To Stay:
Hotels like Beyond Resort Krabi, Treehouse Villas Koh Yao Noi Luxury Resort and a few more places that are wonderful
Interesting fact:
Koh Tapu island of this bay is famously called James Bond Island as it appeared in one of the Bind films called ‘The Man with Golden Gun’
Suggested Tour (Book in advance to get the best deals): Amazing Tour to Phang Naga Bay from Phuket
Thai Cooking Classes:
One vital aspect of your vacation to Phuket is most certainly the very famous Thai food. In Phuket, you get a chance to become a chef and learn some of the staple and famous dishes f Thailand. With more than 10 centers running with stellar chefs teaching, you are in safe hands and would certainly, come out a professional at the Thai Cooking Classes.
How to reach:
For the class, you need to book the session and you will be picked from your place of stay. One common point of departure for these classes is Soi Sermsuk, Tambon Rawai, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83100, Thailand for which you may opt for is Taxi or a bus.
Best Time to visit:
Whenever you are in Phuket, opt for a half-day tour to learn Thai food.
Things to do/top attractions:
Vital Thai dishes on your palette.
Where To Stay:
Benjamas Place, Long Mun Zan, Rawai Princess Hotel and a series of many more.
Interesting fact:
In three hours you learn the basic Thai ingredients that are used in most dishes. Coconut is one dominant factor.
Karon View Point:
As the name suggests, the place is a viewpoint of three bays in Phuket, namely Kata Noi Beach, Karon Beach, and the Promthep Cape. This activity barely takes 15 minutes and you get a picture with all the three Bays in Phuket. Enjoy the backdrop of your pictures when you view them later as a memory.
How to reach:
You can use a Bus or a Train to reach this and go to other famous spots like Kata Beach that is about 10-minutes drive and another 10 minutes down to Nai Harn Beach can also be driven after you reach Karon View Point.
Best Time to Visit:
Any time of the day is good to be here.
Things to do/top attractions:
Kata Night Market, Chang Gym, Karon Temple Market are some of the places in close proximity where you can enjoy.
Where To Stay:
Katathani Phuket Beach Resort, The Shore, All Seasons Naiharn Phuket and Kata Noi Resort are some very beautiful places to stay.
Interesting fact:
The place is breathtaking as the sandy beaches and rains together can be seen meeting the ocean.
Water Sports:
From Snorkeling to Scuba diving to wakeboarding, Parasailing, Paddling, Surfing and the list goes on you can try everything here. Phuket is a hub for all the water activities in Thailand hence, no matter if you are a beginner, you can get your first experience here and enjoy to the fullest as the temperatures are pleasant and you enjoy waters and Sun together. You may try some of these water sports at Patong in Kathu, Ao Sane, Kata Noi and Paradise Beach.
How to reach:
Buses and taxis are easily available to take you to any of the water sport beaches and spots.
Best Time to visit:
November to April.
Things to do/top attractions:
The blue and green waters, the corals, fishes, turtles and flora too.
Where To Stay:
Avista Hideaway Phuket Patong, Blue Sky Hotel Patong, Marina Phuket Hotel and whole lot more hotels and villas and homestays in this region.
Interesting fact:
The weather is sunny throughout the year.
Chalong Bay Rum Distillery:
If researching about Rum and other kind of alcohol intrigues you, then this Distillery is your go-to place in Phuket. You will enjoy knowing the history of how Rum is produced and moreover you will enjoy the relaxing run tasting session. This will make you feel happy and high! Enjoy the tour of this Chalong Bar Rum Distillery and learn to make various cocktails using rum crediting you with the knowledge to flaunt.
How to reach:
Take the local ride on a tuk-tuk if you have lots of time, else, A motorbike or a taxi can take you there from any place on Phuket.
Best Time to visit:
Any time of the year is good as this is not weather dependent.
Things to do/top attractions:
Visit the cashew nut factory and temples in the area.
Where To Stay:
Brook Resort, Bunta House, Little Latte house, the Infinity Private Pool Villa and many other places are available for stay.
Interesting fact:
Chalong Rum is the most sold brand in Thailand.
Jungle Safari:
When with kids you ought to come to Khao Lak Park and Khao Sok National Park. These safaris are the best way to show the wildlife to your kids as they learn well by looking at them. This kind of activity would generate more interest as the guides tell you more about the animals as time passes. You also notice flora that is unique and creates a utopia around you.
Also Read 17 best family holiday destinations in the world
How to reach:
If traveling on a budget, use the train to reach the Khao Lak Park from Bangkok. Within Phuket, you can opt for a Taxi
Best Time to visit:
December and January are the best months. Visit the place in the day time to enjoy to the fullest.
Things to do/top attractions:
Elephant Trekking and Bamboo Rafting are some top attraction other than observing the wild animals.
Where To Stay:
Bangsak Village, Coconut homes and Cafe and numerous other places are there to stay.
Interesting fact:
Around the park, there are beautiful hills.
Suggested Tours: Khao Sok: Full-Day Bamboo Rafting and Elephant Bathing
Bangtao Beach:
When all the fun is explored, you want to be with yourself to pause and reflect. Bangtao Beach is the best place to be at to make the most of your lonely time in Phuket. The beach is pristine with white sands and umpteen sunlight for you to get that tan. Celebrate your time at the beach with minimal crowds and people visiting here. The waves of the blue waters and the air is the only sound that you get to hear other than your own.
How to reach:
There are multiple options to reach to Bang Tao Beach from the Airport. You may opt for a rented car, private taxi or a minibus. From the heart of Phuket, you can travel via private taxi or Songthaew, which are blue busses.
Best Time to visit:
December to March are the best months to visit.
Things to do/top attractions:
Friday Night Market called Fun Friday Avenue Market and Boat Avenue which are both vibrant shopping areas.
Where To Stay:
Baan Norkha Bantao, Andaman Seaside Resort, Pai Tan Villas, and Bangtao Village Resorts.
Interesting fact:
The beach stretches up to 6 miles but is a fairyland.
Siam Niramit:
When spectacular actors come under one roof, they are surely creating something very alluring. Seeing is believing that the country of Thailand and Phuket City has a rich cultural and historical context. This context is brought to you during the Siam Niramit where the culture comes to the fore in the form of dance, art and various small acts that last for about an hour.
How to reach:
Private Taxis are the best way to reach Siam Niramit.
Best Time to visit:
The shows are hosted only in the night.
Things to do/top attractions:
The colorful and vibrant costumes and makeup of the artists are amazing.
Where To Stay:
Escape De Phuket Hotel, The Hilltop Hotel & Residence, and ID residence some of the popular places where you can stay.
Interesting fact:
There are 500 actors that come together each night to perform.
Recommended Tour: Book Siam Niramit Amazing Tour and Guide with advance Tickets & Dinner
Bars on Bangla Road:
Some things are essential for that bizarre and not so normal experience and Bangla Road is one such point to hang out. Nocturnal if you are, the Bangla road is bound to excite you and enthuse for yet another time to be here. Numerous night clubs, bars, live dance events, all these are in store for you at this spot in Phuket. However, it is advisable that kids do not accompany as many elements are there in the market.
How to reach:
The quickest way to get from Phuket Airport (HKT) to Bangla Road is to taxi which costs ฿950 – ฿1200 and takes 35 min. There is a direct bus departing from Phuket Airport and arriving at Patong.
Best Time to visit:
Nighttime is the best time and in terms of weather December to March is better.
Things to do/top attractions:
Bars, Nightlife and Soi Bangla.
Where To Stay:
Absolute Bangla Suites, Tropica Bungalow Hotel, and Brothers Hotel Patong are the places to stay.
Interesting fact:
The place is open all night and numerous activities can be indulged into.
Weekend Night Market:
Spend an eventful evening at this Night market called the Naka Market. The market provides everything from items of daily needs to some fashion clothing and accessories. You are bound to enjoy the market and aimless wandering there as it safe and rather a contemporary experience for many.
How to reach:
Take the bus or a private taxi to reach here. If you stating nearby use the local tuk-tuk ride.
Best Time to visit:
The market is in full swing after 4:00 p.m.
Things to do/top attractions:
Weekend stroll, Malin Plaza.
Where To Stay:
The Naka Phuket, Naka Thani Village, Naka resort, Villa Minh are some places you may opt to stay near the market.
Interesting fact:
The market is very crowded so be careful of engaging yourself into conversation with a local.
Paramotor Flying:
Devoid of some adrenaline rush? The spur yourself with this advanced parasailing that has more speed due the motor being fixed. This flying when a parachute has a motor attached to it is called Paramotor which allows you to have a breathtaking view of the Andaman and the blue-greenish water of Thailand.
How to reach:
Take a tuk-tuk ride to Phuket airpark and reach this place, else, a private ca is good to go.
Best Time to visit:
Any day between 06:30 am and at 04:00 pm. To make the most of the paramotoring go for the morning timings to avoid the heat.
Things to do/top attractions:
Phuket from the sky is what you can look forward to.
Where To Stay:
Casa Blanca Boutique Hotel, Discount Hotels Phuket, Blu Monkey Hub and Hotel Phuket
Interesting fact:
You are going to fly in a gyrocopter.
Mom Tri’s Kitchen:
Besides some good food and fine dining experience, if you are also looking for some stellar settings by the beach, then this award-winning place is your lookout. When in Phuket, you will try numerous Thai dishes, but eating here enhances the experience owing to the wonderful breeze from the sea and lovely blue waters. Do try some wine as the place boast of serving some very fine wine.
How to reach:
Walking else, you may take a private cab.
Best Time to visit:
Any time of the day is good, but having dinner during the night is far more cherish-able.
Things to do/top attractions:
The fusion cuisine and the spa are some things to look forward to it.
Where To Stay:
Villa Royale (Mom Tri is located inside this boutique hotel).
Interesting fact:
This place is the only gourmet restaurant in Phuket.
Tiger Kingdom:
Coming face to face with tigers is like a fantasy coming true. You will be playing with tiger cubs, and interacting with older tigers and all this without any cage. Phuket’s Tiger Kingdom has tigers that are familiar with human interference and so you can enjoy their company and click lots of pictures.
How to reach:
Take a taxi which costs ฿290 – ฿360 and takes 9 min from Phuket. Alternatively, you can also take a bus that departs every 30 minutes, every day to reach Kathu.
Best Time to visit:
Opening hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Things to do/top attractions:
Clicking pictures with tigers and feeding the cubs with milk bottles.
Where To Stay:
River Side by Ahama, Myrica Resorts, Corbett Suman Grand, Jim Corbett and a few others in the vicinity are good choices to stay.
Interesting fact:
The tigers are rather calm by training done each morning before the tourists begin to pour.
Wat Chalong, Phuket’s Largest Temple:
When the bustle of the city begins to get into your head, come to this largest temple in Phuket for some positive micro-vita that would purify your thoughts. Spirituality reigns in the people here and you will get the taste of it when you visit this popular temple in Phuket.
How to reach:
If you are close by, you may walk, or else use the iconic Tuk Tuk ride to the temple.
Best Time to visit:
7: 00 a.m. to 5: 00 p.m. is the best time to reach.
Things to do/top attractions:
Phuket’s architecture is something to look forward to.
Where To Stay:
Six Pack Cottage, The Lake Chalong Resort, the Lantern Hostel, and SPA are some popular destinations for staying.
Interesting fact:
You are free to interact with the monks here to know the historical evidence.
Check out: Top 10 Temples in India
Racha Yai island Day Trip:
Seeing a peaceful coexistence of the marine creatures and humans and nature altogether at this island is nothing short of a mesmerizing experience. A catalog of water activities and lots of islands and white sand prevailing would entice you. Enjoy the Sun and the Beach and of course some diving without any human interference.
How to reach:
Take a speed boat tour to reach the island from Phuket City.
Best Time to visit:
December to March is the best time.
Things to do/top attractions:
Water sports and sun and beach will impress you a lot.
Where To Stay:
The Racha View Hotel, Rayaburi Resort, and Bungalow Raya Resort are some places to stay and enjoy.
Interesting fact:
The island is uninhabited.
Spa Massage:
When in Thailand, do opt for the famous Thai Massage and see your body relax and unwind with each stroke it gets. Thai massages are famous for a reason as the strokes are in congruence with the Indian Ayurvedic principles allowing similar oils to be used on your bodies. So amidst a natural setting at a luxurious hotel, book your appointment. Some of the common and popular places are Golden touch massage, Sweet Lemongrass massage, Sansabai Massage & Spa, etc
How to reach:
Use a private cab or walking would be another way to reach if you are staying close by.
Best Time to visit:
Visit and book an appointment between 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Things to do/top attractions:
Enjoy the aromatic oils and relaxation.
Where To Stay:
Seeka Boutique Resort, and Club Bamboo Boutique Resort along with many others
Interesting fact:
One of the most popular massage centers in Patong Phuket.
Phuket Dolphin Show:
Displaying the intelligence of Dolphins, Phuket hosts the show for children and their parents showing how the Dolphin is a sensitive species. This is definitely one of the most amusing and enterprising show that one must indulge when in Phuket. The show takes place at the Dolphin Bay Nemo theme park and allures and adults and children alike.
How to reach:
Cabs and take you there from anywhere in Phuket.
Best Time to visit:
Any time of the day, do check the show time that may vary.
Things to do/top attractions:
Get up and close with the dolphins and comprehend the marine life.
Where To Stay:
The Marina Phuket Hotel, Casa Del Resort, Patong Resort, Phuket Kata Resort are wonderful places to enjoy your stay in Phuket
Simon Cabaret Show:
Ladyboys are the highlight of Thailand and to witness the dance from a distance, Visit this Cabaret show and learn some moves. These ladyboys are loaded with glitzy make-up and costumes to allure you into dancing. It is tough to make out whether these are actually men, as these men have a figure far better than a woman, making some jealous of them.
How to reach:
One hour drive from Phuket on a private cab can take you to the cabaret show.
Best Time to visit:
Various shows starting from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each day.
Things to do/top attractions:
Ladyboy dance.
Where To Stay:
Platinum Hotel and Apartments, The Little Moon Residence, Fishermen’s harbor urban resort and lots more in the Patong area.
Interesting fact:
It’s a musical show featuring acts from Japan, Korea, China other than Thailand.
Similan Islands Speedboat Tour:
Island hopping is one favorite pastime when in Phuket, but some islands are a highlight and Similan is one of them. This island group is in the Andaman Sea and allows you to witness the abundant marine life and the numerous water activities like diving and speedboat tour can be done here within the safety limits. Have a look at some turtles and other marine creatures to make this tour at Similan’s an unforgettable one.
How to reach:
A boat from Patong will drop you at Similan Islands.
Best Time to visit:
December to January are the best months owing to weather.
Things to do/top attractions:
The diverse species of fauna such as flying foxes and mangrove monitor lizards are the top attractions at this largest Island.
Where To Stay:
The Retreat Khao Lak Resort, White Cat hotel, and other budgeted places near the island.
Interesting fact:
In 1982 it was commemorated as a national park titled Mu Ko Similan.
Phuket Fanta Sea Show:
If luxury and relaxing fine dining stimulate you, then this place is the go-to place in Phuket. You will be happy to see the Thai Culture Flourish and nourish your knowledge about it. This place has some state-of-the-art aspects to represent the vivacity and magnificence of Thai Culture.
How to reach:
If you are in Patong, opt for a private cab.
Best Time to visit:
Any day, the show timings are from 5:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. Thursday is closed.
Things to do/top attractions:
4D Shows and animal performances are fascinating along with These Parks for children.
Where To Stay:
Hotel Kamala Dreams, Glam Habitat Hotel, Deng’s Kamala Resort and many more across the place can be opted for.
Interesting fact:
Numerous children activities and animal exhibition become a part of this show.
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Big Buddha Statue:
White concrete and marble reflect the tranquility of the Big Buddha Statue. Each one of you on your visit to Phuket should come here and experience the religious aspect prevalent in Phuket. Dress up well and a bit conservatively to be here along with comfortable shoes to climb up to the base of this 45 feet high statue. The official name of this popularly known Big Buddha is Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Akenakiri.
How to reach:
The quickest way to get from Phuket Airport (HKT) to Big Buddha is to fly which costs ฿3000 – ฿11000 and takes 1h 39m. There is no direct bus running between the airport and Big Buddha
Best Time to visit:
The place is open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The best time to visit is around 6:00 p.m. in order to view the sunset.
Things to do/top attractions:
The way towards reaching the base of the Statue, buying girlie stuff such as amulets, and anklets.
Where To Stay:
Surf House Phuket, iNest and a variety of other places in the nearby areas.
Interesting fact:
The construction cost was about 30 million baht.
Elephant Sanctuaries:
Phuket brings to you a lot of adventure when it comes to animals. One of these is the Elephant Sanctuary in Phuket. Here you can interact with the elephants and the guide can explain to you their behavioral trait. This can be a very knowledgeable trip especially when you are traveling with kids.
How to reach:
Use a private cab to reach here.
Best Time to visit:
9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. all days of the week.
Things to do/top attractions:
The lovely creatures in their natural habitat.
Where To Stay:
Villa Sonata Phuket, Tinidee Golf Resort and numerous that you can choose from.
Interesting fact:
Elephants are for rehabilitation and live in a sprawling area of 30 acres.
Phi Phi Island:
Island that is most visited and yet it is here that you will find serenity and clarity. Clarity of thought and serenity of the mind would empower you to think rationally transforming you into a reflective and thoughtful person. The Phi-Phi island has many scattered islands making you go gaga about each one that you visit. Try some water sports here and feel the waters embracing you towards a new aquatic life.
How to reach:
When in Thailand, you will be intrigued by ferry and speed boat rides. Ferries take about two hours from Phuket and 90 minutes from Krabi or Koh Lanta. The main departure/arrival port in Phuket is Rassada Pier, located in Phuket Town.
Best Time to visit:
November to March is the best time to visit.
Things to do/top attractions:
Loh Sama Bay and its turquoise-colored water.
Where To Stay:
Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort, Holiday Inn resort Phi Phi, Phi Phi The Beach Resort, Holiday Inn Resort Ko Phi Phi are some luxurious places where you can enjoy your stay.
Interesting fact:
The island was once famous for fishing, but now has a lot of coconut plantations.
Old Phuket Town:
Observing that multi-hued building and wondering where that was? Well, most likely you have viewed the Sino-Portuguese building with lovely color combinations. The old-Phuket town is bustling with local shops and splendor of the Chinese Architecture that is unforgettable for the kind of people you would see here. Explore the place walking and enjoy the distinctive lanes.
How to reach:
From the Phuket International Airport it takes about 30-45 minutes by taxi (800 baht), an hour minutes by shared minibus (600 baht for 2 people or 150/200 baht each) or 1h20 by Government Bus from the Number One Bus Terminal.
Best Time to visit:
December till March is best to visit as the weather is pleasant. However, if your aim is to shop and the only shop, then travel between mid-June to mid-August as you would be offered up to 80% discounts owing to the ‘Amazing Grand Sale’.
Things to do/top attractions:
Thai Hua Museum, the Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion, the Baan Chinpracha Museum, and the Phuket Philatelic Museum.
Where To Stay:
The Romanee Classic Guesthouse, Phuket Center apartment and a few more places that are budgeted
Interesting fact:
Inhabitants of this place are different from those you would find in the rest of Thailand called the Baba Community.
Flying Hanuman:
Inspired by Indian mythology, the name was given is Flying Hanuman who was a flying monkey. Fly on the treetops through this zipline adventure with over 28 platforms to choose from. It comprises of fifteen ziplines, two sky bridges, two abseil points, three spiral stairways, and a sky rail that is worth a visit. The platforms are custom-made from wood to fit into the nature that surrounds it, while the zip lines are some of the most exciting not just in Thailand but all over Asia.
How to reach:
Bus route number 412 can bring you here from the airport.
Best Time to visit:
Months between December to March are good to enjoy this.
Things to do/top attractions:
The lunches that are a part of the package and the experience of being in the sky tugged to a rope.
Where To Stay:
The Marina Phuket Hotel, Casa Del M Resort, and Tinidee Golf Resort are some luxurious places nearby
Interesting fact:
The parts of the zipline are made from wood, blending it well to the natural elements surrounding the area.
Looking for Stay? Top 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Phuket
(Flexible Deals)
Phuket is a complete package for children, adults, bachelors, and even natural lovers. With numerous places to enjoy the place, you will perceive this when you reach there. Do plan a long trip if you like island hopping and Thai Food. Phuket will not disappoint you and would stimulate you to plan another trip soon so you can visit whatever you missed this time.