The Big Buddha Phuket timings suggest that this place is open between 6:30 am and 7:30 pm. The site was closed between August 2024 and February 2026 after a tragic landslide in Phuket. It reopened on March 4, 2026, and is now welcoming visitors again.
As goes by the name, this is a gigantic 45-meter-tall statue seated atop Nakkerd Hill and is one of the most iconic places to visit in Phuket. The entry to the religious site is free for all visitors, including locals and tourists.
What is the Big Buddha Phuket?
Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Eknakiri is the official name of the Big Buddha in Phuket, which is located in Chalong. It is a 45-meter-tall statue of Lord Buddha seated in the Maravijaya position.
The Maravijaya position of Lord Buddha is also known as the Bhumisparsha mudra, which represents the triumph over Mara, or temptation. The posture depicts the moment of enlightenment.
Lord Buddha, in this posture, sits in the lotus position with his left hand on his lap and his right hand touching the ground. It is believed that in this posture, Lord Buddha is calling the Earth Goddess to witness the triumph.
The statue was built from Myanmar granite weighing over 135 tons, spread across 2500 square meters. The concrete was then covered with white jade Burmese marble that shines in the sunlight, creating a peaceful vibe.
Tourists visit this place for its 360-degree views of Chalong Bay, Old Phuket Town, and the Kata and Karon beaches. But stay back because of the serene atmosphere created by the ringing of small bells, the flutters of yellow Buddhist flags, and the spiritual significance that instantly calms their minds and senses.
What are the Big Buddha Phuket timings?
Local guides suggest that the best time to visit the Big Buddha is early morning, during sunrise. Although the place remains open between 6:30 am and 7:30 pm, there is little crowd during early morning and late afternoon.
If you start your day early, visit the Big Buddha between 7 am and 9 am or between 4 pm and 6 pm. I came here in the late afternoon and saw a scattered crowd eagerly waiting for the golden sunset over Kata, Karon, and Chalong Bay.
The busiest time is between 11 am and 2 pm, when most people start sightseeing and make the Big Buddha a top priority on their itinerary. You will need 1 to 2 hours to explore the temple, visit the statue, and enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings.
During religious festivities, timings can vary, and entry to the temple complex might also be restricted. But everybody at all times is allowed to climb up the stairs of the Big Buddha to experience its beauty.
What is the Big Buddha Phuket entry fee?
The Phuket Big Buddha offers free entry to all visitors, so there are no charges to visit.
You will be intrigued to learn that the cost of constructing the complex was approximately 30,000,000 baht, roughly INR 85,471,260. The entire funding to establish this iconic place came from donations.
The construction began in 2002, and it is considered a symbol of love and devotion shown by the local community. The concept came from a group of monks who wanted Phuket to have a symbol of peace and unity. By 2008, the statue had been constructed and was considered the Buddhist Treasure of Phuket.
The site for erecting the Big Buddha was carefully chosen because it was believed that an old image of Buddha was buried here long ago. The Nakkerd Hill thus transformed into this massive statue offering stunning views of the Andaman Sea.
Even now, the maintenance of this place depends on donations. So, if you want to contribute, you can donate money at the donation boxes on site. There is, however, no compulsion or charges to visit this holy place in Phuket.
How to reach Big Buddha Phuket?
You can make your trip to the Big Buddha more adventurous by hiking up to the statue, or you can book a vehicle to take you to the parking lot.
Go hiking up to the Big Buddha
From the southern end of Karon, a hiking trail leads up to the Big Buddha. The route is approximately 2 kilometers long, with an elevation of 300 meters. The Kata-Karon Hiking Trail is a more challenging option that takes about 2-3 hours. Both the trials offer panoramic views and have ropes to help you climb when the route gets steep. Just make sure you have proper shoes and carry water during a hot sunny day.
Book a taxi or a private car
We booked cabs via the Bolt and Grab app in Thailand. Bolt is cheaper than the other option. You will also find local taxis waiting to carry passengers at popular tourist spots. Make sure you discuss pricing beforehand so they don’t overcharge you.
You can also check with the hotel you’re staying at for services like mini bus rides or private cars to take you around the city. Ours was a 50-minute ride from our hotel, Indochine Resort & Villas.
Book a Tuk-Tuk
If you’re near Phuket Big Buddha, exploring Old Phuket Town, or Kata Karon beaches, you can book a Tuk-Tuk near you. These are autorickshaws present across Thailand to take you around local places.
It will be a fun and enjoyable ride, but only if you ensure they charge you reasonable prices. You might have to negotiate to get the best price. Always check the pricing shown in cab apps to avoid overpaying.
Rent a scooter
One of the most reasonable ways to explore Phuket is by renting a scooter or motorbike. They charge approximately 200-400 Baht per day. But you have to deposit around 5,000 Baht, which is refundable when you return the scooter. Documents, including your passport and license, are required to rent a scooter.
If you bring your own car or scooter, you will need to park it in the parking lot. There are no parking charges, but it is down the elevated road that leads to the viewpoint and statue. Once you reach the parking lot, you have to walk up, and no vehicles are allowed beyond this point.
What to do at Big Buddha?
As soon as you reach the parking lot of Big Buddha, you will get glimpses of the statue from one side. From here, you can gauge how gigantic the statue is, and it keeps getting bigger as you walk closer.
There is a barricade on the way up that blocks vehicles from entering after a point. Here you will find a stall with instructions and sarongs to borrow and wear before you enter.
There is a broad, wide road that inclines towards the hilly area once you cross the barricade. On your way up, you will find several other brass statues that gleam golden.
Once you make your way up to the Big Buddha, the first thing that catches your attention is the bird’s-eye view of Chalong Bay and Phuket Town.
On one side, you’d find the magnificent view that stretches up to Kata Beach and southern Phuket, and on the other side, you’d see the mighty white statue.
There are two white dragon statues on either side of the staircase, welcoming you as you slowly climb up to get an up-close view of the statue.
Once you reach the top, go around the Big Buddha to get a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. Here you will also find a 12-meter-high Buddha statue, six statues representing “offering of Six Devas”, and one statue of King Rama V.
After descending back to the viewpoint, you will find a prayer hall underneath the Big Buddha. Here, you can receive blessings from monks or make a donation to support the maintenance of this sacred place. You can also toss coins into small bowls known to bring good health and luck.
Big Buddha Phuket dress code
While it is one of the most sought-after places to visit in Phuket, it has religious significance and rules. The foremost thing to keep in mind is how you are dressed at this sacred Buddhist site.
Right near the parking lot, there is a stall where tourists can borrow sarongs to cover their knees. Here you will find a chart listing types of clothing not allowed to be worn inside the temple.
The sign rejects clothes like tank tops, shorts, spaghetti-strapped crop tops, and tops that reveal the belly button. These signs are primarily aimed at the female visitors.
We had borrowed sarongs at no cost and returned them on our way back.
Dos and Don’ts at Big Buddha Phuket
Here are some temple rules to keep in mind to retain the sanctity of the religious place:
Dos
- Respectfully remove sunglasses and shoes when entering the area of worship
- Try to switch off your mobile phone or put it on silent to not disturb devotees
- Speak softly and move around in a calm and composed manner
- Stand up when monks enter the room to pay respect
- Wear clothes that cover the belly, knees, and shoulders
Don’ts
- Don’t smoke within the temple premises
- Don’t spit or chew gum
- Don’t eat around the temple area
- Don’t disturb devotees while they pray
- Don’t feed monkeys
Beware of monkeys
The hilltop is inhabited by wild monkeys accustomed to tourists. These playful creatures are prone to attack, especially when they see food in your hands.
There are instructions on the Big Buddha site to not feed monkeys because they bite. You have to keep an eye on your belongings, especially shiny objects like sunglasses and cameras.
If you see monkeys around, simply pause and let them make their way. If they don’t find you harmful, they will likely pass you by.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is the Big Buddha Statue located?
The Big Buddha Statue in Phuket is located on Nakkerd Hill. The address to navigate this place is: Soi Yot Sane 1, Karon, Muang, Phuket 83100, Thailand.
2. What is special about the Phuket Big Buddha?
The Big Buddha is one of Phuket’s popular sights to visit because of a 45-meter-tall statue of Lord Buddha. Construction of this site was done at Nakkerd Hill, which overlooks Chalong Bay, Old Phuket Town, and the beaches. So, the main attractions are the viewpoint and the white marble statue.
3. What are Big Buddha Phuket timings?
The Big Buddha is open from sunrise to sunset, around 6:30 am to 7:30 pm. It is least crowded early in the morning but offers the best views at sunset.
4. What is the entry fee to Phuket Big Buddha?
The Big Buddha is a temple, and it is free to enter for locals and tourists alike.
5. How long does it take to visit Big Buddha Phuket?
It takes about 1-2 hours to explore the Big Buddha at a slow and leisurely pace. It is a large area with a lot to see and shelters to rest when tired.
6. What is the best time to visit Big Buddha?
7 am to 9 am to avoid the crowd, and 4 pm to 6 pm for the best sunset views.
7. Are monkeys common at Big Buddha Phuket?
Yes! You can encounter monkeys at the Big Buddha, so it is important to keep your belongings safe. You should not feed monkeys, as there are clear instructions that suggest that they bite.
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