Tag: Phuket

Travel

What You Need to Know About Chaithararam Temple (Wat Chalong) in Phuket

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During my recent trip to Phuket, I had the opportunity to visit the renowned Wat Chalong, officially known as Chaithararam Temple. This temple stands as the largest and most significant among the 29 Buddhist temples on the island. Located in the Chalong Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District, Wat Chalong is not only a place of worship but also a peaceful escape and a wonderful reflection of Thai spirituality and tradition.

The temple complex features several beautiful buildings (there are four main ones, to be exact), each with unique architecture that really stands out compared to other temples I’ve visited in Thailand. The main attraction is the 60-meter-tall chedi called Phra Mahathat Chedi. This elegant structure houses a relic believed to be a fragment of Buddha’s bone. The walls and ceilings are decorated with vibrant murals depicting the life of Buddha, and countless golden statues add to its sacred atmosphere. If you climb to the top floor, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the temple grounds and surrounding area.

One building that left a lasting impression on me was the hall that displays life-sized statues of three highly respected monks—Luang Pho Cham, Luang Pho Chuang, and Luang Pho Kleum. These monks are known for their wisdom, compassion, and healing skills. Luang Pho Cham, in particular, is remembered for his role in helping people during the Chinese rebellion in 1876. Devotees often visit this hall to pay respects, and some even leave small offerings in gratitude.

I also found it fascinating to learn about the different Buddha postures associated with the days of the week. I discovered that I was born on a Wednesday, and the posture for this day is Buddha holding an alms bowl while standing. This symbolizes Buddha’s return to his father after years of meditation, and it represents kindness, compassion, and modesty.

There’s also a unique tradition practiced at Wat Chalong—burning firecrackers in a dedicated brick kiln. If your wish made at the temple comes true, it’s customary to return and set off firecrackers as a way to thank the Buddha and ward off bad luck. The loud pop-pop sounds add a rather exciting and joyful vibe to the temple visit.

A few tips if you’re planning to visit:

  • Dress modestly. Wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. This is a must for entering any temple in Thailand.
  • Never climb or sit on Buddha statues. It’s considered very disrespectful.
  • Follow the signs and temple rules. There are usually clear instructions around the complex—respect the space and the people there.

Visiting Wat Chalong was more than just a tourist stop for me—it felt like a meaningful cultural lesson wrapped in a peaceful, spiritual experience. Whether you’re seeking spiritual insight or simply want to appreciate the art and history, I highly recommend adding Wat Chalong to your Phuket itinerary.

📍Chaithararam Temple (Wat Chalong)
70 หมู่ที่ 6 Chao Fah Tawan Tok Rd, Chalong, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Opening hours: 8AM – 5PM (daily)
FREE entry
Website: https://www.wat-chalong-phuket.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/ChaithararamTempleWatChalongPhuket/

Nature, Travel

Sea Turtle Release 2025 at Naiyang Beach, Phuket – A Dream Come True

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As a passionate turtle lover and a proud member of the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia, I have always dreamed of visiting a turtle sanctuary and taking part in the release of hatchlings into the wild. That dream finally became a reality during my recent trip to Phuket, where I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the 13th Sea Turtle Release 2025 event at Naiyang Beach.

A Special Event for Turtle Conservation
The Sea Turtle Release 2025 was organized by the Turtle Conservation Group Phuket, supported by Tourism Authority of Thailand on 22 March 2025. This annual event, now in its 13th year, aims to raise awareness about sea turtle conservation while giving these beautiful creatures a better chance at survival. We arrived at Naiyang Beach around 3pm, just in time to witness the vibrant atmosphere filled with excited visitors, conservationists, and volunteers.

The event was more than just a release ceremony. There were stage performances, food stalls, charity sale booths, and educational workshops where visitors could learn about the importance of sea turtle conservation. The highlight, of course, was the release of 75 one-year-old Olive Ridley sea turtles back into the ocean.

Why One-Year Old Turtles?
You might wonder why these turtles were not released immediately after hatching. The answer lies in their survival rate. Newly hatched sea turtles face immense challenges, with a low survival rate due to natural predators and environmental hazards. By raising them for a year in a protected environment, their chances of survival increase significantly once they are released into the wild.

My Experience Releasing A Baby Turtle
When my turn came, a volunteer guided me on how to properly hold the baby turtle. I was instructed to gently place it onto the sand and not touch it again once released, allowing it to find its way to the ocean on its own. The moment I held my turtle, it flapped its fore flippers swiftly, as if eager to dive into the sea. The instant I placed it onto the beach, it crawled determinedly towards the waves, without even a backward glance—no goodbye for me! (How rude, right? 😆)

A Heartwarming and Meaningful Experience
Participating in this event filled me with immense happiness and pride. Watching these young turtles take their first steps into the vast ocean gave me hope that conservation efforts like these will help maintain, or even increase, the population of sea turtles to a healthier, more sustainable level.

A huge thank you to the Tourism Authority of Thailand for allowing me to be part of this meaningful event. If you’re a nature lover or a conservation enthusiast, I highly recommend experiencing this unforgettable moment for yourself! Maybe next year?

Stay updated about this annual sea turtle release event with Phuket Love Turtle

Travel

Siam Niramit Phuket: A Must-See Cultural Show & Thai Heritage Experience

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Personally, one of the best thing to do in Thailand is visiting Siam Niramit Phuket, a world-class cultural attraction that offers visitors a chance to discover and enjoy the wonders of Thai heritage through immersive experiences and award-winning performances. This must-visit destination showcases Thailand’s rich traditions with breathtaking stage effects, traditional villages, and live entertainment.

Experience the Magic of Thai Culture
Siam Niramit Phuket operates from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM, with various activities leading up to the grand theatre show. Tickets can be purchased via their official website or at the main entrance, and visitors are encouraged to arrive early to explore the four key areas before the performance.

The 4 Key Areas in Siam Niramit Phuket

1. 100-Year Thai Village – Step Back in Time
The 100-Year Thai Village is a cultural gem that transports visitors to Thailand’s past. It showcases all four regions of Thailand; the North, the Northeast, the Central and, the South, with hands-on activities that offer a glimpse into the country’s diverse heritage. Visitors can:

  • Try traditional crafts such as umbrella painting and weaving.
  • Experience rural Thai life by exploring wooden stilt houses.
  • Watch cultural performances representing the North, Northeast, and South of Thailand.
  • Taste local snacks prepared by artisans in the village.

2. Restaurant – A Feast of International Flavours
Siam Niramit’s buffet restaurant is open from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, offering a diverse selection of international and Thai cuisine. Some of the delicious options include:

  • Thai favourites such as Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and Green Curry.
  • Western delights like pasta, roast chicken, and fresh salads.
  • Desserts featuring Thai sweets, cakes, and tropical fruits.

💲Price for buffet is 400THB per adult and 200THB per child.

3. Naga Courtyard – Pre-show Extravaganza
At the Naga Courtyard, visitors can enjoy live performances and even participate in interactive activities. The pre-show begins at 7:45 PM, featuring traditional Thai music, dance, and martial arts demonstrations. Please note that if it rains, the pre-show will be cancelled.

4. The Theatre – A Breathtaking Spectacle
This is my favourite part of all in Siam Niramit Phuket, which is the highlight of the evening, the Siam Niramit Show, running from 8:30 PM to 9:50 PM. Recognized as one of the best cultural performances in the world, the show features realistic stage backdrops, stunning special effects, and captivating storytelling that bring Thailand’s history and legends to life. The performance covers:

  • The ancient Kingdoms of Siam and their diverse traditions.
  • Thai beliefs and myths, including the mystical Himmapan forest.
  • Festivals and celebrations from different regions of Thailand.

Photography is not allowed during the show, except for the grand finale.

Awards & Recognition
Siam Niramit Phuket has received numerous accolades, solidifying its reputation as a world-class attraction. Some of its notable awards include:

  • Thailand Tourism Awards – Hall of Fame
  • Prime Minister’s Creative Award for Best Cultural Performance
  • TripAdvisor Hall of Fame Award

Plan Your Visit to Siam Niramit Phuket
Siam Niramit is an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Thai culture. Whether you’re exploring the traditional village, indulging in a delicious buffet, or witnessing the breathtaking stage performance, this cultural attraction promises a night of magic and wonder. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness history come to life at Siam Niramit Phuket!

📍Siam Niramit Phuket
55, 81 หมู่ที่ 5 Chalermprakiat Ratchakan Thi 9 Road, Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Operating hours: Gate opens from 5:30PM – 10:30PM (daily except Tuesday)
Siam Niramit Show: 8:30PM – 9:50PM
Website: https://www.siamniramitphuket.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/siamniramitThailand/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/siamniramitphuket/

Travel

Discover Museum Phuket, A Hidden Gem Showcasing Phuket’s Rich History & Culture of Tin Mining and Peranakan

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If you’re visiting Phuket and think it’s all about beaches and island hopping, let me introduce you to a hidden gem that offers a completely different experience—Museum Phuket. I had the chance to visit this museum recently, and it turned out to be a fascinating journey through Phuket’s rich history and vibrant Peranakan culture.

A Bit of History
Museum Phuket is currently managed by Museum Siam and Phuket City Municipality. It’s housed in two historical buildings, each with its own story to tell. One of them used to be the Chartered Bank (1907-1911), and later in 1914, the building with the tower was built, which was initially a police station located just across the road. Over the years, these buildings served various purposes, including being the Phromthep Information Center and Nakorn Luang Thai Bank. Since 2018, they have been transformed into Museum Phuket, home to the “Phuketnagara-Peranakannitat” exhibition, which beautifully blends interactive activities and modern technology to showcase Phuket’s founding history and Peranakan heritage.

Walking Through Phuket’s Tin Mining Era
One of the highlights of the museum is its section on Phuket’s history as a tin mining town. Before tourism took over, tin mining was the backbone of Phuket’s economy, bringing prosperity and attracting people from different cultures. The exhibits display old photographs, mining equipment, and artifacts that give visitors a glimpse into this golden era. I found it amazing how this once-thriving industry shaped the island’s development.

The Mock Chartered Bank Safe Room
Stepping into the mock Chartered Bank safe room was another cool experience. It’s a small but intriguing exhibit that tells the story of the building’s original function as a bank. Walking into that safe room, surrounded by historical details, felt like stepping back in time. If you’re into old bank vaults and historical architecture, you’ll love this part.

Discovering Phuket’s Peranakan Culture
The museum also offers an immersive experience into the lives of the Peranakan community—descendants of Chinese immigrants who settled in Phuket. This section explores their traditions, lifestyle, and cultural influence on the island, which reminded me of the Peranakan communities in Melaka and Penang. A fun part? You can try on traditional Peranakan costumes for photos! It’s a great way to bring home a unique memory of your visit.

Create Your Own Souvenir
Before leaving, don’t forget to stop by the souvenir corner (at the building with the tower), where you can create your own personalized keepsake. Choose a design like ang ku kuih, koi fish, or a dragon, and color it yourself. You can then turn your masterpiece into a keychain, fridge magnet, button, and more—all for just 20 THB each. It’s a fun and affordable way to bring home a piece of your Museum Phuket experience.

General Info
Museum Phuket is open from Tuesday to Sunday with different operating hours:

  • Tuesday – Saturday: 9 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Sunday: 1 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Closed on Mondays

Best of all? It’s free entry!

📍Museum Phuket
Phangnga Rd, Tambon Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Website: https://www.museumthailand.com/th/museum/Museum-Phuket
FB: https://www.facebook.com/Museumphuket
IG: www.instagram.com/museumphuket

Why You Should Visit
If you’re looking to dive deeper into Phuket’s past beyond the usual tourist spots, this museum is a must-visit. Whether you love history, enjoy interactive exhibits, or just want to explore something different, Museum Phuket has something for everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to escape the heat for a while and learn something new about this beautiful island.

So, the next time you’re in Phuket, make sure to add Museum Phuket to your itinerary. You won’t regret it!

Travel

Explore the Upside Down House Phuket for Fun, Photos & Laughter!

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If you’re looking for a fun and wacky experience in Phuket, The Upside Down House (Baan Teelanka) is a must-visit! We were welcomed by quirky and friendly staff, and one of them asked us to say something opposite about ourselves. Guess what I said? 🤣 My friends and I had the best time here, flipping our perspectives—literally—and sharing endless laughter.

A House Like No Other
From the moment we stepped inside, everything felt like a scene from an optical illusion. The staff at The Upside Down House were incredibly friendly and well-trained in taking upside-down photos! One of them even gave us a crash course on how to edit our photos using our smartphones, making our shots look even more impressive. They knew all the best angles to make our poses look extra mind-blowing!

Exploring the Upside Down
We started on the first floor, where everything was flipped—bedroom, living room, working desk, toilet, and kitchen. It felt surreal walking on the ceiling (or was it the floor?). Each room made us giggle as we tried to pose as if we were floating in mid-air.

Next, we moved to the second floor, which had even quirkier setups—an upside-down tuk-tuk parking, golf clubs, a dog kennel, a laundry area, and even a kid’s paddling pool. We couldn’t stop laughing as we pretended to defy gravity!

More Thank Just A House
The Upside Down House isn’t the only attraction here! There are even more experiences to explore, which we decided to save for another visit. You can plan your trip to try them all!

  • Garden Maze – Try not to get lost!
  • Escape Room – Test your puzzle-solving skills.
  • Rage Room – Smash things to relieve stress.
  • 9D Cinema & VR Games – Immerse yourself in thrilling experiences.
  • Drunk Box – A hilarious take on balance and perception.

Each attraction has different pricing and package options, so check their website for details.

Entry Fee

Adults570 THB
Kids (4-11 years old)320 THB

📍The Upside Down House Phuket
หมู่ที่ 5 51/11 Chalermprakiat Ratchakan Thi 9 Road, Ratsada, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Operating hours: 10AM – 6PM
Website: https://upsidedownhouse-phuket.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/BaanTeelanka
IG: https://www.instagram.com/theupsidedownhousephuket/

If you’re in Phuket and want a break from the beaches, The Upside Down House is a fantastic place to create fun memories. Just make sure to charge your phone—you’ll be taking tons of crazy pictures & videos! Laughter and fun guaranteed!