Go Venture Beyond.blog

Introduction

If you’re on a trip around the beautiful Old Town of Phuket, Wat Chalong is an unforgettable addition to your itinerary. As the island’s most revered and visited temple, Wat Chalong blends stunning architecture, deep cultural significance, and a peaceful atmosphere that invites both reflection and exploration. For a breath taking view of the lush Thai mountains rising behind glimmering golden temple spires, there’s no better place to stand.

Why Wat Chalong Is Special

Wat Chalong, officially known as Wat Chaiyathararam, has been a spiritual centre for locals for over a century. The temple is dedicated to two highly respected monks, Luang Pho Cham and Luang Pho Chuang, who played important roles in supporting Phuket communities during times of conflict.

How to Get There

We were on a day trip with a personal driver, and Wat Chalong turned out to be very conveniently located for exploring the downtown area. The drive from our previous stop, the Big Buddha, took roughly 15 minutes, making it an easy and worthwhile addition to the itinerary thanks to its close proximity. The temple ground does cover a wide area, so do be aware of that.

Tips for Visiting

• Dress respectfully: Cover shoulders and knees; avoid beachwear.
• Remove shoes: before entering any temple building.
• Be mindful of noise: it’s an active place of worship.
• Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
• Bring a light scarf or shawl if you’re unsure about dress code.

Best Time to Visit

Wat Chalong is open year-round, but the most comfortable months are November to March, when Phuket’s weather is cooler and less humid. Mornings tend to be quieter and offer the best lighting for photos.

Is Wat Chalong Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Wat Chalong offers a meaningful break from the island’s busier attractions and gives travellers a chance to connect with Phuket’s spiritual side. Whether you spend 30 minutes or a few hours, your visit will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the island’s culture and history.

On the perfect summer day when we visited, the views and atmosphere were simply unforgettable, as you can see from the photos in this blog! Heading over to Old Town afterwards is the perfect choice for lunch, as it’s only a short drive away, provided the traffic behaves!