Big Buddha Phuket – Opening Hours, History & Tips

High above Chalong and Kata, the Big Buddha sits on Nakkerd Hill and can be seen from many parts of southern Phuket. The 45-meter-tall statue is clad in white marble from Myanmar and has become one of the island's most recognizable landmarks. From the terraces, views stretch across Chalong Bay, the surrounding hills and parts of Phuket's west coast. More than a scenic viewpoint, it is an important Buddhist site where people come to pray and take part in religious ceremonies.

Current update: After an extended closure, the Big Buddha reopened to visitors on March 3, 2026. The grounds are currently open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. As opening hours and access rules may change, it is worth checking the latest information before visiting.

History, construction and significance

Construction of the Big Buddha began in 2002. The project was supported by Phuket's local Buddhist community and funded largely through donations. The statue has a reinforced concrete core, while its distinctive pale exterior is covered in white Suriyakanta marble from Myanmar.

Its official name is Phra Phuttha Ming Mongkhon Eknakkhiri, although several spellings are used when the name is translated from Thai. In 2008, Thailand's Supreme Patriarch at the time designated the statue a “Buddhist Treasure of Phuket."

For many Buddhists, the Big Buddha represents peace, hope and inner strength. It is shown in the Maravijaya posture, with its right hand reaching toward the earth. This recalls the moment when Buddha resisted the temptations of Mara and called upon the earth to witness his enlightenment. Buddhist holidays and religious ceremonies continue to make clear that the Big Buddha is not simply a Phuket attraction, but a place of faith.

Exploring the temple grounds

Beyond the main statue, smaller Buddha statues and religious details can be seen throughout the temple grounds, while quieter corners allow time to take in the atmosphere.

A broad staircase of 94 steps leads from the lower level to the platform at the base of the Big Buddha. From the terraces, panoramic views stretch across Phuket. Chalong Bay lies to the east, while Kata, Karon and parts of the west coast can be seen in the other direction.

Among the statues, prayer areas and viewpoints, visitors can slow down and experience the grounds as more than a quick photo stop. People come here to pray and Buddhist ceremonies are held regularly, so the religious character remains present even during busier times.

Macaques also live around the temple complex and occasionally appear near the paths. Although watching them can be entertaining, they should never be fed or encouraged to approach. Keep food out of sight and give them plenty of space, especially when visiting with children.

Best time to visit Big Buddha Phuket

Morning and late afternoon are usually the most comfortable times to visit. Shortly after opening, temperatures are still relatively mild and the stairs and viewing terraces tend to be quieter. Views across Chalong Bay and southern Phuket can also be especially clear in the morning.

In the late afternoon, softer light falls across the white marble and surrounding hills. With the current closing time of 6:00 pm, however, a visit should not be planned around sunset itself. If sunset is part of the plan, our guide to the best sunset spots in Phuket highlights better places to spend the evening. Allow at least 60 to 90 minutes before closing to explore the statue, temple areas and terraces without rushing.

Between November and April, dry weather and good visibility are generally more likely. During Phuket's Green Season from May to October, the landscape around Nakkerd Hill becomes especially lush, although passing clouds and rain showers can temporarily limit visibility. During periods of persistent heavy rain, check current conditions before driving up the hill.

Dress code and temple etiquette

Out of respect for its religious importance, visitors are expected to dress appropriately. Shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women. Very short shorts, short skirts, sleeveless tops and beachwear are not permitted. Lightweight clothing that provides enough coverage also offers extra protection from the sun and remains comfortable in warmer temperatures.

Respectful behavior is equally important throughout the temple grounds. Shoes must be removed in designated prayer areas. Keep voices low and avoid disturbing anyone who is praying or taking part in a ceremony. Photography should also be discreet, particularly around monks and worshipers. This helps preserve the calm atmosphere even during busier times.

Getting to Big Buddha Phuket

The road to the Big Buddha is well signposted. The main access road leads from Chaofa West Road along Soi Yot Sane 1 and up Nakkerd Hill. It is paved, although some sections are steep and winding. Along the way, there are occasional views across the green hills and southern Phuket.

The journey can be made by rental car, taxi or ride-hailing service. A scooter is another option, but riding experience is essential on the steep mountain road. Parking is available near the entrance.

The drive from Kata or Karon usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Allow approximately 30 to 40 minutes from Phuket Town and 40 to 50 minutes from Patong. When traveling by taxi or ride-hailing service, it is worth arranging the return ride in advance, as a pickup may not always be immediately available at the top.

Address: Soi Yot Sane 1, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand

Opening hours: 09:00 am - 06:00 pm

Admission: Currently free. Voluntary donations support religious activities and the upkeep of the temple grounds.

Combining Big Buddha with Wat Chalong and other Phuket sight

A visit to the Big Buddha pairs particularly well with Wat Chalong. Phuket's best-known Buddhist temple is a 10- to 15-minute drive from Nakkerd Hill depending on traffic. Both places offer insight into Buddhism on the island, but each provides a different experience. At the Big Buddha, the monumental statue and panoramic views are the main focus, while Wat Chalong is made up of several richly decorated temple buildings and religious halls.

Several small restaurants and cafés can also be found along the road up Nakkerd Hill, offering places to stop for a break with views across the surrounding landscape. From here, the day can continue toward Phuket Old Town or the beaches and viewpoints around Kata, Karon and southern Phuket. Our Ultimate Phuket Guide offers more inspiration for attractions, day trips and places to explore elsewhere on the island.

Many guided tours to Big Buddha Phuket combine the statue with Wat Chalong, Phuket Old Town or other viewpoints. A half-day tour can be useful for travelers without their own transportation or those who would like more background on the history and religious significance of each stop. The same stops can also be combined independently by rental car, taxi or ride-hailing service.

Practical tips for your visit

There is little shade on the stairs and viewing terraces, so bring water, sun protection and comfortable shoes. The upper platform can only be reached by stairs, an important point for visitors with limited mobility. Younger children need close supervision on the steps and open terraces. It can also be helpful to carry small bills for voluntary donations, although contributing is never required.

Frequently asked questions about Big Buddha Phuket

Is Big Buddha Phuket currently open?

Yes. Following a severe landslide on Nakkerd Hill, the site remained largely closed from August 2024 until March 2026. The Big Buddha officially reopened to visitors on March 3, 2026. As access can change during periods of heavy rain or for operational reasons, check the current status before heading up the hill.

What are the current opening hours?

Big Buddha Phuket is currently open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Google Maps and some travel websites may still show different information. If arriving close to opening or near the end of the day, check the latest hours in advance.

Is there an entrance fee?

Admission is currently free. Voluntary donations toward religious activities and the upkeep of the temple grounds are welcome, but they are not required.

How tall is the Big Buddha?

The statue stands 45 meters tall and measures around 25 meters wide at its base. It has a reinforced concrete core covered in white Suriyakanta marble from Myanmar.

What is the dress code?

As this is an active Buddhist site, shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women. Sleeveless tops, shorts or skirts above the knee and beachwear are not permitted. Visitors who arrive in unsuitable clothing must cover their shoulders or legs with a wrap or sarong before entering. Cover-ups are generally available at the entrance, although arriving appropriately dressed avoids any possible charge. Shoes must also be removed in designated prayer areas.

How much time should you allow for a visit?

Allow around 60 to 90 minutes for a relaxed visit to the statue, religious areas and viewing terraces. Combined with Wat Chalong and another stop in southern Phuket, the route works well as a varied half-day itinerary.

Is the site suitable for children?

Yes. Families with children can visit the Big Buddha, although younger children need close supervision on the staircase to the upper platform and across the open terraces. There is little shade, so bring sun protection and plenty of drinking water. Macaques occasionally appear around the grounds and should never be fed or encouraged to approach. The upper platform can only be reached by stairs and is not accessible with a stroller.

Can the Big Buddha be visited without a guided tour?

Yes. No advance booking is required, and the Big Buddha can be reached independently by rental car, taxi, ride-hailing service or scooter. A guided tour can be useful for travelers who prefer transportation to be included or would like more context about its history and religious significance.

Is Big Buddha Phuket worth visiting?

Beyond Phuket's beaches and viewpoints, a visit to the Big Buddha offers a closer look at the island's Buddhist culture. The monumental statue, its religious significance and the views from Nakkerd Hill make it much more than a photo stop.

Taking time to explore the prayer areas and smaller Buddha statues also gives a clearer sense of the religious life surrounding the statue. This is what sets it apart from many of Phuket's classic viewpoints.

Combined with Wat Chalong, the visit becomes a varied half-day outing that links two very different Buddhist landmarks in southern Phuket. For travelers interested in culture, the Big Buddha remains one of the island's most distinctive cultural sights.