If you’re visiting Phuket and want more than beaches and nightlife, Wat Chalong is a must-see destination. This beautiful and sacred Buddhist temple is more than just a photo spot — it’s a place of deep spiritual significance for locals and visitors alike.
Table of Contents
🪷 A Brief History of Wat Chalong
Wat Chalong, officially known as Wat Chaiyathararam, is one of Phuket’s most revered temples. Built during the early Rattanakosin era, it has been a spiritual center for the island’s residents for over a century.
Its fame is largely due to Luang Pho Chaem, a respected monk known for his healing abilities and leadership during the 19th-century Chinese rebellion. His legacy lives on through amulets, statues, and the stories passed down by locals.
🛕 The Grand Pagoda (Chedi)
One of the temple’s most iconic landmarks is the 63-meter-high Grand Pagoda, which houses a sacred relic — a fragment of the Buddha’s bone from Sri Lanka. The pagoda is decorated with traditional Thai art and Buddhist murals that depict the life of the Buddha.
Climb to the top floor for panoramic views of Phuket and a peaceful atmosphere above the crowds.
🙏 Who Is Luang Pho Chaem?
Luang Pho Chaem is a legendary monk who played a vital role in calming civil unrest and caring for the wounded. Today, his image is widely respected across Southern Thailand.
Visitors often come to pray, light incense, or seek protection by wearing amulets bearing his likeness — believed to bring safety, luck, and peace.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Whether you’re a spiritual traveler or a content creator, Wat Chalong offers plenty of Instagram-worthy corners:
- The top floor of the chedi with mountain views
- The prayer hall and its golden Buddha statues
- The quiet gardens with shady trees and lotus ponds
- Murals and intricate carvings that reflect Thai artistry
🧭 How to Visit Wat Chalong
- Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Dress code: Respectful attire required (shoulders and knees covered)
- Location: About 20 minutes from Phuket Town or Kata Beach
- Parking: Available on-site and free of charge
- Tips: Avoid loud noises inside the buildings, and ask permission before photographing worshippers
🧘 Why Locals Still Visit Wat Chalong
Wat Chalong isn’t just for tourists. Locals regularly visit to make merit, pray for good health, or ask for guidance during major life events. During Buddhist festivals like Makha Bucha or Songkran, the temple comes alive with traditional rituals and community gatherings.
🌟 Combine Wat Chalong With Nearby Attractions
Make the most of your day by combining Wat Chalong with nearby must-visits:
- Big Buddha Phuket – only 15 minutes away with stunning views
- Phuket Old Town – for charming Sino-Portuguese buildings and local cafes
- Chalong Market – perfect for local food and souvenirs
✨ Final Thoughts
Whether you seek cultural insight, spiritual serenity, or just a deeper connection to Phuket, Wat Chalong offers a meaningful and memorable experience. Don’t leave the island without stopping by this iconic temple — it might just become your favorite part of the trip.
📲 Contact Us for Custom Itineraries:
👉 Explore Our Tours
📧 Email: booking@loveandaman.com
📞 Call or WhatsApp: +66 (0)76-390-250
📍 Visit us in Phuket: [Google Map link]
📱 Follow us on Facebook | Instagram | Lemon8 for daily inspiration!
Your Journey, Our Passion.