39points · on 5 of 5 lists: Tripadvisor, Phuket 101, Where2Go by MakeMyTrip, Pretty Wild World and Phuket Insider (Пхукет Инсайдер)
Wat Chalong is one of Phuket's most important Buddhist temples, a cluster of halls and a tall chedi with gold detail on the rooflines, and entry is free. Go early in the morning, when it is cool and quiet, and allow a couple of hours to walk the grounds and the market stalls around them. Cover shoulders and knees, and at Songkran, join in pouring water over the Buddha statues as a mark of respect.
“a famous and beautiful, colourful, and superbly crafted temple”
Phuket 101
“Despite being a popular spot, the temples felt peaceful and quiet.”
a Google reviewer
- Price
- Free
23points · on 3 of 5 lists: Phuket 101, Where2Go by MakeMyTrip and Pretty Wild World
The Big Buddha is a white marble statue 45 meters tall on the hilltop, visible from much of southern Phuket. From its base the view runs all the way around, over Chalong Bay, the coastline and the green hills, and a long white naga staircase leads up through the grounds. Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it is quieter, and pair it with Wat Chalong nearby.
“The atmosphere is calm and respectful, even with plenty of visitors around.”
a Google reviewer
“an iconic landmark visible everywhere in the south of Phuket”
Phuket 101
22points · on 3 of 5 lists: Tripadvisor, Phuket 101 and Pretty Wild World
The Distillery Phuket is the home of Chalong Bay rum, made here from first press organic Thai sugarcane in a copper still brought over from France. Visitors take the tour and tasting, or join a cocktail workshop where a bartender teaches them to mix with the house rum, gin or vodka. Afterward the open air restaurant serves lunch and dinner, the eggplant salad a favorite, with the distillery dog and cats wandering between the tables.
“Ryan was also a great tour guide and shared lots of interesting information about the distillery.”
a Google reviewer
“the snapper with mash was excellent”
a Google reviewer
- Price
- Moderate
Google ratings from Google on 3 October 2026. Quotes are from the published lists and reviews named beside each one.
Honorable mentions
Fourth, with 15 points from 2 lists.
Fifth, with 10 points from 2 lists.
“The views back to the mountains and Big Buddha at sunset are amazing”
a Google reviewer
The lists we counted
- Tripadvisor · 2026
- Phuket 101 · September 2026
- Where2Go by MakeMyTrip · 2026
- Pretty Wild World · July 2024
- Phuket Insider (Пхукет Инсайдер) · October 2026
How the points work
We read every independent published best-of list we can find for the question. Each list gives 10 points for first place, 9 for second, down to 1 for tenth, and 5 points to each place on a list with no order. Points are added up. A business must be in the top 10 of at least two lists to be ranked. Rankings are never sold. Full method.
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