The Big Buddha sits atop one of Phuket’s highest hills

Poised serenely above the island at the top of the Nakkerd Hills, between Kata and Chalong, the Phuket Big Buddha is one of the island’s most distinctive landmarks. Spectacular 360 degree views greet you as you approach the summit, where this 47 metre high monument sits facing the daily sunrise. Finished with thousands of white jade marble tiles, the statue was constructed in 2004.

Prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and you’ll hear the tinkling of ritual bells. You can take a taxi or tuk-tuk up the windy six kilometre road to the hilltop, but you have to climb a steep flight of stairs to the actual monument. There is parking available at the top for your car or motorcycle if you do the trip yourself.

The astonishing views from the Big Buddha encompass much of the island. Near the top there are other viewpoints to take in the island’s other vistas. There’s always a breeze at the top of the hill, but a sunny day is going to provide the best views. Although the Big Buddha towers over the Nakkerd Hills, the hills aren’t the tallest on the island. That claim goes to the hills sitting behind Patong where a small Naval Base is situated.