The Big Buddha (Phra Puttamingmongkol Akenakkiri) is one of Phuket's most-visited landmarks — a 45-metre marble-clad statue sitting atop Nakkerd Hill above Chalong, visible from much of the island's south.
What it actually is
A working Buddhist monument and active temple site rather than purely a viewpoint — donations fund its ongoing construction, and locals visit to pay respects alongside the steady flow of tourists.
The view
Panoramic views across southern Phuket, including Chalong Bay and, on a clear day, out toward the surrounding islands — one of the best elevated vantage points on the island, and free to visit.
Dress code and etiquette
Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter the immediate statue area — sarongs are usually available to borrow at the entrance if you arrive underdressed. Keep voices low near the statue itself and remove shoes where signed, the same etiquette covered in our broader Thai Buddhism guide.
Getting there
A short drive up from Chalong — see our Chalong guide for the wider area, including Wat Chalong and Chalong Pier nearby. No public transport runs directly to the hilltop, so a taxi, scooter or tour is the practical way up.
Best time to visit
Early morning generally offers the clearest visibility before afternoon haze builds — see our temple-hopping tour guide for combining this with Wat Chalong and a smaller temple in one day.