Yes, we know Samet Nangshe is just north of Phuket, but while you’re visiting the island you MUST check it… details below.
Phuket offers a huge array of spectacular viewpoints that are worth exploring. These ones are all easily accessible and are set up with parking and ammenities for the public. Get out and enjoy… take your camera.
One of the most prominent tourist attractions is the Big Buddha, an enormous Buddha statue towering 45 metres above the surrounding hillside. It is situated on one of the highest points in Phuket, providing breathtaking views of Chalong on one side and Kata/Karon on the other.
Aside from being a spiritual encounter for Buddhists and PIIBs (people interested in Buddha), visitors can also learn about the statue’s history and Buddhism in general while enjoying the astonishing views on both sides of the hill. Take the well-signed turn off Chao Fah Road West in Chalong.
Another popular destination is Cape Promthep, known for its stunning sunset views… known by many of the tour companies who drag visitors down to the location every night for the sunset.
Although it’s worth of a visit, visitors can witness exactly the same sunset anywhere along the west coast while enjoying a peaceful drink without the crowd. Despite the traffic, Cape Promthep remains a lovely place to visit with plenty of history and culture on display as well.
For the most photographed view of Phuket, head to the Kata Viewpoint. It offers an excellent vantage point overlooking Kata Noi, Kata, Karon and beyond, facing north up the coastline. Visitors can park their vehicles and take a walk around. Although there are touts camped up there with eagles for photo opportunities at a fee, we advise avoiding this activity as the view is good enough, and free.
Khao Rang, overlooking Phuket Town, is a popular meeting spot for locals. It features several restaurants with stunning views, a free public viewpoint, car and motorbike parking, and often a few monkeys to keep visitors entertained (don’t feed or try and approach the monkeys). The Tung Ka Cafe is a local favourite with stunning views across Phuket Town.
‘The Windmill’ lookout is a popular spot overlooking Nai Harn and Ya Nui beaches. It now has good parking and a vendor selling drinks, providing a relaxing atmosphere while admiring the stunning views of the beaches below and the islands beyond. To get there, visitors can drive to Nai Harn, then up the hill. The ‘windmill’ is a stand-alone wind-power generator next to the viewpoint. This hill is also a popular launching spot for parasailors when the southwest monsoon kicks in each year.
If visitors are willing to travel an hour off the island, they MUST catch the breathtaking Samet Nangshe viewpoint. It is particularly remarkable at sunrise and is considered one of the best views in the world. Really. Visitors can even stay overnight in cute bungalows or comfortable tents to catch the sunrise. Head north off the island and Mr Google will guide you there.
