Big Buddha
Address:
Phuket,
NileGuide Expert tip:
Visit during the week to avoid large crowds and wear comfortable shoes for the climb up.Description:
As of 2011, the Big Buddha is still under construction on top of Phuket's most impressive peak (the statue itself is finished but finishing touches are still underway). The Big Buddha stands 147 feet tall, with a base that's more than 82 feet wide. The statue itself is covered on Burmese white marble and is located on the island's best viewpoint. Next to it there's a smaller, 39-foot tall brass Buddha already finished. Visitors mainly make the one-hour climb because of the 360-degree views from the statue's base. It's a common practice to scribble thank you notes or prayers on the tiles surrounding the statue. Some people leave small pieces of paper with their prayers on them. For a small donation, you can have your name printed on one of the marble pieces used on the construction of the statue. This is also one of Thailand's best spots to catch a view of the sunset.