phuket | The Adventure Travel Site

Majestic Guardians Of Thailand: The Big Buddhas Of Phuket And Beyond

Despite the temporary closure of the renowned hilltop Big Buddha in Phuket, the island and its neighbours are home to several spiritual alternatives, each with their own unique styles and depictions. Wander through Old Phuket Town, or venture deep into Pha Nga Province, and discover the guardians of coastal Thailand, hallmarks of spirituality that loom over serene temple complexes.

Sri Sunthorn Temple

Reminiscent of the Buddha image in Wat Pho, Bangkok, Sri Sunthorn Temple in Phuket is home to an impressive reclining Buddha, a symbol of peace and enlightenment. Measuring 29 metres in length, this statue bathed in gold is one of Phuket’s most photographed landmarks, representing Lord Buddha’s final moments before entering Nirvana. Situated in the very heart of the island, Wat Sri Sunthorn is easily accessible from your coastal luxury villa in Phuket, only 30 minutes away from resorts like Anantara Layan Phuket Resort.

Wat Khao Rang

Sitting atop a hill in Phuket Town, Wat Khao Rang hosts a golden seated Buddha that stands as one of the first large Buddha statues on the island. This statue, seated atop a carved bed of lotus, is visible from afar, drawing visitors with its intricate details. The temple also features various shrines and surrounding smaller statues.

Koh Kaew Yai

Located on a small island just off the coast of Phuket, Koh Kaew Yai is a sacred spot known for its ancient statues, including a revered standing Buddha. Pilgrims often visit to pay respects, as this Buddha is thought to bless sailors and fishermen. A visit here offers a unique, spiritual experience paired with scenic views of the Andaman Sea.

Wat Bang Riang

Although not on the island of Phuket, Wat Bang Riang features a large seated Buddha statue as part of its multi-faith complex, tucked within the dense green forests of Phang Nga. The temple’s serene location and stunning views of lush hills add to its majestic aura, making it a spiritual retreat for locals and tourists alike.

Ziplining in Phuket – Elevating Adventure for Thrill-Seeking Daredevils

Ziplining in Phuket offers an exhilarating way to experience the island’s stunning landscapes from above. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers looking for a unique, heart-pounding activity.

Fly Through the Lush Jungle

Phuket’s dense, tropical jungles provide the perfect backdrop for ziplining. As you soar through the trees, you’ll feel the rush of wind and take in breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty. It’s an adventure that will satisfy any adrenaline junkie. After a day of adrenaline-pumping fun, unwind at a property such as Anantara Layan Phuket Resort for some restful rejuvenation.

Part of the Best Phuket Attractions

Ziplining has become one of the top Phuket Attractions for visitors looking to add some adventure to their trip. From high-speed cables to long stretches through the jungle, it’s a must-try experience for anyone who loves the outdoors.

PEP photo, Zipline Slovenia ’21 (1) (51358546442), CC BY 2.0

Challenge Your Limits

Ziplining isn’t just about the thrill of flying—it’s about pushing your boundaries. As you glide from platform to platform, suspended high in the treetops, you’ll experience the ultimate combination of excitement and fear. This activity is perfect for those looking to conquer their fear of heights.

A Fun Activity for All Ages

Ziplining in Phuket is an activity that people of all ages can enjoy. Many ziplining parks offer different levels of difficulty, ensuring that both beginners and experienced thrill-seekers have a fantastic time. Whether you’re with family or friends, ziplining is a memorable way to explore Phuket’s incredible landscapes together.

Dive into Adventure: Top Water Sports in Phuket – Make Waves in Paradise!

Phuket, the crown jewel of Thailand, is not just a tropical paradise with stunning beaches; it’s a playground for water sports enthusiasts! Whether you’re looking to feel the adrenaline rush or simply soak up the sun, the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea offer an array of exciting activities. Here are the top five water sports you can enjoy in Phuket:

Jet Skiing

Feel the wind in your hair as you race across the waves on a jet ski. Explore the coastline at high speed, making unforgettable memories as you zoom past stunning islands and hidden coves.

Kayaking

Explore the stunning coastline and hidden bays of Phuket while paddling through calm waters in a kayak. This serene activity allows you to get up close to nature, navigate through mangroves, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Travellers staying at hotels and resorts like Anantara Layan Phuket Resort can be part of an exciting kayaking excursion during their stays.

Snorkelling

Dive beneath the surface to discover a vibrant underwater world teeming with colourful fish and coral reefs. Some of the most sought-after Phuket attractions like Coral Island and Koh Racha are perfect for snorkelling, offering clear waters and rich marine life.

Scuba Diving

For those seeking an immersive experience, scuba diving is a must! With numerous dive sites around Phuket, including the famous Similan Islands, you’ll encounter incredible sea creatures and breathtaking underwater landscapes.

Paddleboarding

Enjoy a more tranquil adventure with paddleboarding. Glide across calm waters, taking in the scenic views and the serene beauty of the coastline while getting a fantastic workout.

Discover the Best Island-Hopping Adventures in Phuket: An Epic Voyage Awaits! – Sail into Paradise!

Phuket isn’t just Thailand’s largest island; it’s a gateway to an unforgettable island-hopping experience! Get ready to set sail on an epic voyage where stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and serene beaches await you. Here are five must-visit spots for your island-hopping adventure:

Layan Beach

Begin your journey at the tranquil Layan Beach, a hidden gem where soft sands meet gentle waves. This idyllic spot is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. For those looking to purchase luxurious living spaces with panoramic views of Layan Beach, Layan Residences by Anantara offers a stunning array of residences, each designed to harmonise with the breathtaking natural landscape and provide an unparalleled living experience.

Coral Island

Known for its vibrant coral reefs, Coral Island (Koh Hae) offers fantastic snorkelling opportunities. Dive into a world of colourful marine life, or relax on its picturesque beaches. The island is also a great spot for water sports like parasailing and jet skiing.

James Bond Island (Ko Khao Phing Kan)

Famous for its appearance in The Man with the Golden Gun, this iconic destination is a must-visit. Marvel at the limestone cliffs rising dramatically from the emerald waters while exploring the surrounding caves and mangroves on a kayak.

Phi Phi Islands

No island-hopping trip is complete without a visit to the breathtaking Phi Phi Islands. Famous for their stunning scenery, these islands offer idyllic beaches, vibrant nightlife, and opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. When in Phuket, the best things to do include exploring the Phi Phi Islands.

Similan Islands

Renowned for their spectacular underwater ecosystems, the Similan Islands are perfect for divers and snorkellers. With some of the best dive sites in the world, you’ll encounter colourful coral gardens and diverse marine life, making this a highlight of your adventure.

Phuket for Adventurers: Thrilling Activities You Shouldn’t Miss

As one of the popular island travel destinations in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is more than just a relaxing haven for weary travellers. With an abundance of lush rainforests and sandy beaches, Phuket has plenty of thrilling experiences for those looking to be more adventurous during their vacation. Here are some of the best adrenaline-pumping activities in Phuket for outdoor lovers.

Diving

Phuket is one of the best destinations for diving enthusiasts with crystal clear waters and vibrant underwater ecosystems. Those staying on the island at resorts like Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas will have the perfect opportunity to explore the depths of the Andaman Sea with expert guidance.

Image via Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas

Ziplining

One of the best ways to experience the expanse of forest cover on the island is ziplining. As you speed along the rope and whizz past treetops you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the island’s lush forests from a vantage point like no other.

Windsurfing

If you’d rather race across ocean waters near your Phuket luxury resort, windsurfing makes for an ideal adventure. The ideal time for windsurfing in Phuket is from June till the end of August when the conditions are perfect. More experienced surfers can head for the northwestern region for stronger winds, while the shallow waters of the southern coastlines are perfect for beginners.

ATV Riding

This is yet another exciting way to explore the jungles of Phuket, which involves racing through the terrain at high speeds. You’ll have a close-up view of stunning waterfalls, hidden sacred statues and some of the more elusive wildlife that call the jungles home.

How to have the perfect vacation – Phuket edition

You’re tired of being trapped inside the house for too long? If you’re plotting ways to get out, the best way is to escape to the tropical paradise of Phuket. However, if you’re a first-timer planning and figuring out the best way to spend your time there can be a bit daunting. This blog gives you a concise outline of how to make the best of your time in Phuket.

The first two days

You are likely tired and jet-lagged from the long-haul flight so it’s best to rest the first day and conserve your energy for some major adventures and fun soon. If you haven’t booked your Phuket resorts online, head towards a reputed and well-known resort in the area such as the likes of Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites and Villas to avoid getting scammed. Have a relaxing dip in the pool and get some much-needed sleep and refuel for the adventures coming your way!

Image via Avani+ Mai Khao Phuket Suites and Villas

Third and fourth day

Now that you’re relaxed and in Vacay mode, head out to explore the Old Town and other attractions in Phuket. The Big Buddha on top of Nakkerd Hills, Wat Chalong, Wang Talang, and Old Town should be on your list of places to visit. After a long day of exploring and clicking pictures that put Annie Leibovitz to shame, you can relax at Khao Rang Hill or Patong Beach.

Fifth and Sixth day

Coral and Racha Islands are the offshore islands near Phuket. No journey here is complete without an excursion out there. You can either book a tour package or find a local guide and spend these two days exploring these scenic islands on the gorgeous Andaman Sea. At Coral Island make sure to try out all the water sports and have a hearty lunch by the beach. At Racha Island, you can go snorkelling to say hi to the shoals of colourful fish that make these islands their home.

Seventh and final Day

End your Phuket tour with a bang! Wake up nice and early and hike up to Karon viewpoint to catch a breath-taking sunset. After this and a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you can go ATV riding through mangroves and Phuket dirt tracks. While you’re still high from the adrenaline pay a visit to Hanuman World and take the thrilling zip lines there. Now that you’ve tried the best Phuket has to offer, make sure you make one last stop at an authentic Phuket massage to relax your nerves and refuel you for a normal life.

Phuket Experiences and Expeditions to Cherish

A vacation in Phuket is not just a walk by the beach. The city offers a bundle of exciting activities to tourists that are not only limited to the tropics of the island. Phuket is historically, naturally and artistically rich in its offerings to society, and a trip to this astonishing city should not miss these experiences.

Полина Славянская, Музей Thai Hua, CC BY 3.0

A History Like No Other

A walk down memory lane to Phuket’s incredible history will be an astounding experience. While Thailand had the fortune of being exempted from European colonisation, the country was a hub to begin new lives for many Portuguese, Dutch, British and French immigrants. This resulted in Thai culture, cuisine and architecture being infused into European forms, creating the perfect fusion of Western and Southeast Asian practices.

Visits to The Museum

Located less than an hour away from Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, the Thai Hua Museum is a Sino-Portuguese building that houses stories from the past of Phuket. The exhibitions and documentary screenings at the museum will give you an insight into the Phuket-China connection spanning back to the days of the 13th century. Most tourists staying at Phuket resorts pick the Thai Hua Museum as their first stop out of many sites to explore and admire.

Dive Into A World of Art

The dynamics and vibrant colours of contemporary brushstrokes define modern art in Thailand. Phuket is a shelter for both local and global art for those who appreciate it. Make sure to make pit stops at galleries like Patong Inn Art, The Phuket Gallery, Kampon Art Gallery and most importantly at the Wua Art Gallery, which is owned by local artist, Mr Zen.

A Wildlife Expedition

A sanctuary to over 10% of the fauna of the world, Thailand hosts more than 285 mammal species in their natural habitats. Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, Khao Sok National Park, Sirinat National Park and Similan Islands National Park are undoubtedly some of the top places to visit to get a glimpse of the terrestrial and aquatic animal lives of the country.

Canoeing In Phuket – Row Your Boat

Do you have a spirit of adventure and are you very keen on water sports? Make sure you hop on board a canoe on your next Thai adventure. Read on to uncover the top canoeing spots in Phuket for an incredibly fun vacation.

How To?

While the logistical aspect of organising water sports can seem daunting, certain Phuket resorts take away the hassle of organising the excursions. Hotels such as Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas can take care of the logistics so all that’s left to do is to make a splash and have a whale of a time!

Phi Phi Island

Number one of the long lists of the best places to canoe in Phuket is Phi Phi Island. A breath-taking and an exotic island like no other, row your canoe on the placid waters to marvel at the limestone formations and caves. You’ll want to take along a waterproof camera to document your adventure!

James Bond Island

If you’re a fan of Agent 007, you’ll recognise this island in a heartbeat from the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun”. The island became so popular after the movie, it was eventually re-named the “James Bond Island”. Come and explore the shallows surrounding this gorgeous isle before diving into its waters.

Phang Nga Bay

If you’ve never explored the waters of a bay by canoe, this is the place to do it! With a myriad of interesting limestone karsts, sea rocks and multiple islands to navigate around, make sure you canoe your way around Phang Nga Bay for a water-logged adventure of a lifetime.

Snorkelling and diving in Phuket – How to get about it

Phuket is an island of stunning beauty when it comes to land, everyone knows that! But what about under the water? if you really want to know you’ll just have to see for yourself. Here’s a bit about snorkelling and diving in Phuket.

fitri agung from Pekanbaru, Riau, Indonesia, Indonesia, Phuket 2012 (8481635621), CC BY 2.0

Best time to dive

The best time to dive in Phuket would be during the period when the weather is warm. It is at this time that visibility is at its best. This season would be between November and April. Nonetheless, the dive sites are less crowded and Phuket resorts bring down their prices.

Marine life

Each dive site may differ in marine life slightly, but the Andaman Sea definitely offers an under-sea spectacle with creatures like manta rays, reef sharks, whale sharks and a variety of turtle species.

Diving schools

Phuket island has plenty of diving schools to choose from. If you are staying at a resort like Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas, it’s best to ask for recommendations from your hotel. Scuba Cat, Sunrise Divers and Merlin Divers are some of the recognised schools here.

Phuket diving spots

Within the waters of Phuket are some wonderful, yet underrated diving spots! Phuket Shark Point, Anemone Reef and Karon Bay are a few sites you ought to check out.

A Phuket Guide for Solo Female Travellers – Staying Safe and Having Fun

With Phuket in Thailand offering fully vaccinated tourists quarantine-free entry, it’s a great place for solo female travellers and here are some insights that will help.

Accommodation

Have the basics covered before you land in Phuket; resorts that are SHA+ certified and follow strict health protocols like Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas offer safe accommodation right by the beach. Such properties also feature dining options, spas and excursions which will add to the convenience and trustworthiness factor.

Diverse Adventures

Solo female travel is a chance to step out of your comfort zone and enjoy new experiences. These can include zip-lining amidst verdant jungle terrains at Flying Hanuman, traversing off-road trails on a bicycle or ATV or diving in the Andaman Sea; you can also embark on boat excursions to Phang Nga Bay and the Similan Islands.

Fun Things to Do

There’s never a dull moment in Phuket no matter what your interests may be from learning Thai culinary secrets at a cooking class to Muay Thai martial arts training! Animal lovers can visit the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary while culture enthusiasts can attend the Siam Niramit Phuket show. For a night of partying, Bangla Road in Patong is the place to go.

Spa Pampering

Taking a trip alone to Phuket is a great time to enjoy rejuvenating spa rituals and find your inner bliss. Resort spas are ideal for this and provide plenty of holistic healing with a variety of options; these can include bespoke massages (try a Thai warrior massage!), chakra crystal balancing, Ayurveda therapies, beach yoga and more.