Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort - Luxury hotel - Big Buddha Phuket

Visiting Big Buddha Phuket: A Complete Guide + Where to Stay Nearby

Big Buddha Phuket is one of the most well-known landmarks on the island and a must-visit destination for travelers interested in local culture, panoramic views, or spiritual experiences. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know before visiting—including its history, how to get there, what to expect on-site, and where to stay nearby for easy access.

About Big Buddha Phuket

Located atop Nakkerd Hill in the south of Phuket, Big Buddha Phuket—officially known as Phra Phuttha Mingmongkol Akenakkiri—is a 45-meter-tall statue made from Burmese white jade marble. It was funded entirely through public donations and took more than a decade to complete.

In 2008, the Big Buddha was officially recognized as the Buddhist Park of Phuket Province, reflecting its cultural and religious importance to the island. It serves as both a religious and cultural symbol. Visitors come to admire the craftsmanship, take in the panoramic views, and engage in quiet reflection.

Important Update: Big Buddha Phuket Temporarily Closed

As of late 2024, Big Buddha Phuket is temporarily closed due to a landslide caused by heavy rain near Nakkerd Hill. Reopening is expected sometime in 2025, but no official date has been announced. Despite the closure, it is still possible to drive up the hill to take in the views.

Before visiting, check updated information through tourism websites, hotels, or local tour providers by searching “Big Buddha Phuket closed” for the latest status.

Visitor Highlights

A visit to Big Buddha Phuket offers a blend of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and spiritual atmosphere. The focal point is, of course, the towering white marble statue seated in the “subduing Mara” posture, visible from various points across the island. Surrounding the main figure are additional elements that enhance the visitor experience, including a 12-meter golden brass Buddha built in honor of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. Nearby, statues of revered monks and a circle of ceremonial bells allow guests to engage in traditional acts of devotion and make merit.

Another key highlight of the visit is the panoramic viewpoint from the hilltop. Visitors are treated to sweeping 360-degree views over Phuket, including Phuket Town, Chalong Bay with its moored yachts, and the long stretches of Kata and Karon Beach. Whether you arrive early in the morning or just before sunset, the natural backdrop complements the spiritual ambiance.

Many guests choose to participate more actively by striking the gongs and bells for good fortune or writing a wish on a marble tile to be added to the statue—an act of merit and personal connection that resonates long after the visit ends.

Things to Know Before Visiting Big Buddha Phuket

• Dress Code: As a sacred cultural site, respectful dress is essential. Visitors are asked to wear modest clothing—men should wear shirts with sleeves, and women should avoid strapless tops, short skirts, or shorts above the knee. If needed, shawls and sarongs are available at the entrance. Shoes must be removed before entering the main terrace area. For those arriving directly from the beach, a change of clothes is recommended, as swimwear is not permitted within the temple grounds.

• Admission & Opening Hours: Big Buddha Phuket is open to the public daily from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM, with no entry fee. Donations are welcomed and can be made at designated boxes or by sponsoring a marble tile that will be used in ongoing site maintenance. Complimentary parking is available near the entrance, with staff on hand to assist with directions and information.

• Best Time to Visit: For the best experience, plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon. Morning hours offer cooler temperatures and softer light, while the late afternoon (between 4:00 and 6:30 PM) provides a calm atmosphere and the opportunity to watch the sun set over the Andaman Sea. If visiting during midday, sun protection is essential. During the rainy season (May to October), it is advisable to check the weather forecast in advance, as road conditions may be slippery and visibility reduced.

How to Get to Big Buddha Phuket

Big Buddha Phuket is accessible by several means of transport, depending on your preferences and travel style.

By car or motorbike, the journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes from Phuket Town or Patong, passing through the Kata–Karon area. The road is paved and clearly marked, though steep in some areas. Motorbike rentals are a popular choice for independent travelers, typically costing around 200 – 300 THB per day. If you choose this option, take care on inclines and curves, especially during or after rain.

Taxis and tuk-tuks are widely available throughout Phuket, particularly in Patong, Kata, Karon, and Phuket Town. Most drivers are familiar with the route to Big Buddha. It’s advisable to agree on a fare in advance—typically between 500 and 800 THB—depending on your starting point. Ride-hailing services like Grab or Bolt are also available, though drivers may be less inclined to make the trip after sunset due to limited lighting on the hillside road.

Alternatively, booking a guided tour or shuttle provides a seamless experience, often combining Big Buddha with nearby cultural sites such as Wat Chalong. Most tours include hotel pickup, transport, and a knowledgeable local guide, making this a convenient choice if you’re short on time or prefer a more structured visit. A typical stop at Big Buddha lasts between 1 and 2 hours.

No matter how you choose to arrive, the journey to Big Buddha Phuket offers a rewarding glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and cultural depth.

Recommended Hotel Near Big Buddha Phuket: Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort

For those looking to stay close to Big Buddha with easy beach access, Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort is a highly recommended option. It’s just 15 minutes away by car and located directly on Karon Beach.

Spread across 75 acres of tropical gardens, the resort in Karon offers a quiet, expansive setting just steps from the sea. Guests can enjoy direct access to one of Phuket’s longest beaches while being within easy reach of major cultural attractions in the south of the island, including Big Buddha Phuket.

The resort features 7 restaurants and bars, including Thai and international cuisine, as well as casual poolside dining and a beach club-style atmosphere. With 5 outdoor pools, including a kids’ pool with a waterslide, it’s well suited for both families and couples. For wellness-focused travelers, there’s a fully equipped 24-hour fitness centre, tennis and squash courts, and the Pullman Spa, which offers signature treatments designed for relaxation and recovery.

Families will appreciate the Kids Club and organized daily activities for children, while adults can enjoy a balance of leisure and lifestyle experiences throughout the day.

Whether you’re visiting Big Buddha Phuket or simply looking to explore the island from a beachfront base, Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort offers a sophisticated yet relaxed environment that’s ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Book your stay now at Pullman Phuket Karon Beach Resort and enjoy the convenience of being close to one of Phuket’s most iconic landmarks—without compromising on comfort, service, or style