If you are planning a holiday in the tropical paradise of Phuket, we totally understand why you chose such a beautiful part of Thailand; white sands, coconut trees and clear blue waters are the trademarks of this island that nestles on the shores of the Andaman Sea.
Planning your holiday ensures that you make the most out of the experience, and with that in mind, here are some cool day trips to add to your itinerary.
- Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay – If you are an active, adventurous person, you will love spending the day at Phang Nga Bay. The tour begins with a short boat trip to the Phang Nga group of islands, where you join a guided kayak tour of the stunning limestone cliffs; a 1-hour tour inland reveals stunning ancient temples and spectacular scenery with waterfalls (Nahm Dtok) and deep gorges. An English-speaking guide tells the amazing history of these islands as well as the many marine species that inhabit the clear blue waters. The best place to stay is a luxury hotel on Patong Beach Phuket, where you are centrally located and within reach of the old town.
- Adventure in Kapong – Located at the northern end of Phuket Island, Kapong is an adventure attraction that isn’t on the main tourist circuit. White-water rafting is a firm favourite, providing the weather isn’t too bad and river tubing is another thrilling experience. Enjoy a Thai lunch (spicy salad and grilled chicken with sticky rice) then a few more hours of river tubing before a spectacular sunset brings things to a close.
- Photo ops at Phuket’s Big Buddha – Located near Chalong in the southern part of Phuket, this amazing 45-metre-high white marble statue of a seated Buddha makes for perfect photos. You can try a local lunch, sit in the shade and admire the stunning vistas, or enjoy a delicious ice-cold lychee or mango drink. If you search online, you can find quad tours that include time at the Big Buddha, which is a great way to explore the jungle. Make sure that you dress conservatively if you visit Big Buddha; although it is not officially a temple, it is regarded as holy ground. There are some great Thai restaurants that cater for the many visitors
- Wat Chalong – Located near Big Buddha, this is the largest temple on the island, with stunning architecture and rich colours; built in 1837, the Jedi holds one of Lord Buddha’s bones. The temple is covered with fine paintings that depict the life of Buddha; if you are a lover of fine architecture, you will love Wat Chalong and the stunning gardens that surround the main buildings. Click here for tips to make happy memories with loved ones.
- Yacht charter – You can’t holiday in Phuket without spending the day on a chartered yacht; start with a Google search and compare tour packages; the skipper knows the best snorkelling spots and you can enjoy a romantic dinner with your soulmate as the sun sets in the sky.
Thailand is one of the top tourist destinations in the world and there is so much to see and do when you spend a few weeks in this tropical paradise.
