Big Buddha (Ming Mongkol Buddha)
A 45 m marble-clad seated Buddha on a hilltop 400 m above sea level, with 360-degree views over Chalong Bay, Kata and the island's south.
- Category
- Attractions & Landmarks
- Entrance fee
- Free (donations), as of 2026
- Hours
- Daily approx 06:00–19:00
- Best time
- Late afternoon for cooler air and sunset views
- Time needed
- 1 hour
About Big Buddha (Ming Mongkol Buddha)
The Big Buddha is worth it and it's free, which is a rare combination on Phuket. The marble-clad seated Buddha sits atop Nakkerd Hill, and beyond the landmark itself you get 360-degree views over Chalong Bay, Kata and the whole south of the island.
It genuinely doubles as one of Phuket's best all-round viewpoints, so even if temples aren't your thing, the panorama makes the winding drive up worthwhile.
Come late afternoon when the air is cooler and the sunset views come out. Dress modestly, though sarongs are provided at the entrance if you turn up in shorts.
Highlights
- A 45 m marble-clad seated Buddha on a hilltop
- 360-degree views over Chalong Bay and the south
- One of the island's best all-round viewpoints
- A landmark visible from much of southern Phuket
Tips
- Come late afternoon for cooler air and sunset views
- Free to visit; donations support the site
- Dress modestly, though sarongs are provided at the entrance
- The road up is winding; a scooter or Grab both work
How to get there
~12 km from Phuket Town atop Nakkerd Hill between Chalong and Kata; Grab/taxi 25–30 min (~250–350 THB) up a winding road, or scooter.