Carissa NgPhuket, a tropical paradise renowned for its pristine beaches and sunshine, offers much more than just sunbathing and swimming. Dive deeper into the island’s vibrant culture, natural wonders, and hidden gems. From exploring ancient temples to hiking through lush rainforests, there’s a world of adventure waiting to be discovered beyond the sandy shores.
So, pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey off the beaten path in Phuket!
Also read: Shop ‘Til You Drop in Bangkok: The Ultimate 4-Day Itinerary for Shopaholics
1. Admire the stunning panoramic view of Phuket from Khaorang Hill
2. Take photos with colourful wall graffiti
Image credit: Eugene Tang
Don’t these graffiti artworks just add so much colour and vibrancy to the old streets and fading walls? Found at Thalang Road, these masterpieces are great for a quick outfit of the day shot or just fun photos with friends. They definitely spice up the area by giving quirky fresh vibes to what was previously plain and boring walls.
In celebration of UNESCO’s official recognition of Phuket as a Creative City of Gastronomy, Thai graffiti artists have been called to highlight the elements of Phuket’s food culture through their artwork. This is shown in two of Alex Face’s works, his Mardi character in a Chinese red tortoise “Ang Ku” cake dress like the ones used in Por Tor (Hungry Ghost) Festivals, as well as another one of Mardi in traditional costume pushing a cart. The former one can be found at Thalang Road and the latter one can be found near Phuket Town’s Central Market – for those who want to snap a picture with it!
3. Go cafe-hopping along Thalang Road
Thalang Road is like a quaint, eclectic mix between Chinatown and Haji Lane in Singapore! In short, it is every hipster’s heaven. Rows of multi-coloured, Sino-Portugese shophouses are filled with a varied mix of new cafes, bars and guesthouses, coupled with old shops like hardware stores, herb shops, fabric shops and old noodle shops! What a juxtaposition. This is why Thalang Road is the central heart of Old Phuket Town, it offers a unique mix of the old and the new!
Try out cafes such as Coffs & Burgh, Eleven & Two Co., Bookhemian and A Dessert Moments for some sweet pastries, local delicacies and a cup of freshly brewed coffee! Coffs & Burgh, in particular, is housed in a 120-year-old shophouse with Peranakan baba decor inside and behind the cafe. It’s definitely worth checking out – and have I mentioned that a cup of coffee starts from only 50 baht?! Plus, my huge cup of coffee lasted me for HOURS.
Bask in the relaxing ambience with a good book and cuppa, or snap photos of the quaint decor all around. It’s the perfect place for a casual, chill afternoon! If coffee isn’t your thing, don’t worry… Eleven & Two Co. has Happy Hour promotions from 2pm to 8pm, so go ahead and knock yourself out with some cheap cocktails and beers!
4. Visit the Phuket Town Central Market and get a glimpse of the local culture
It was a real eye-opener walking around the market, learning about how the different herbs, fruits and products they sold at each stall! We bought some colourful sweet desserts and glutinous banana rice to try, and boy – they were absolutely delicious. We also had the chance to look at the process of making fresh coconut milk and cream, which looked so tasty. Markets are also the best place to buy a cup of Thai milk tea or coconut water – it’s refreshing in the hot weather and given in large portions at really low prices.
5. Try to be a master chef at the Blue Elephant Restaurant
Image credit: Eugene Tang
Housed in an elegant and historic 105-year-old Governor’s Mansion, the Blue Elephant Cooking School and Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone in Phuket! The exterior is a sight to behold, set amidst lush greenery, while the interior is delightfully elegant yet quaint.
Initially, I was very apprehensive and worried that I might be a burden and set the kitchen on fire by accident, considering my lack of talent in cooking. Thankfully, that was not the case! Chef Sombat Prongthong patiently demonstrated four dishes to us: Spicy Seabass Soup with Fresh Turmeric, Prawn and Pineapple Salad, Crab Curry with Betel Leaves, and Stir-fried Prawns with Tamarind Sauce.
He explained every step of the way and it was such an enriching experience! He gave us numerous cooking tips and told us his techniques for keeping ingredients fresh while enhancing the flavours from the spices. You’ve got to take his cooking class to find out! *winks*
The menu at Blue Elephant Phuket offers a variety of unique dishes using the freshest ingredients to produce quality Thai food that will simply blow you away. You won’t be able to find these Thai dishes anywhere else. So make sure you attend a cooking class with them, and be awed by Thailand’s rich gastronomic culture!
6. Feast on DELICIOUS authentic Southern Thai Food
Did you know that Phuket is the first city in ASEAN to be honoured as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy? That’s quite an achievement! Globally, only 18 cities have been awarded this prestigious title, making Phuket’s recognition as a Creative City of Gastronomy well-deserved.
Just take a look at these mouthwatering dishes from Tu Kab Khao, a well-known restaurant near Phuket Old Town. They serve authentic southern Thai specialties, native to Phuket. We indulged in an array of dishes: fish cakes with Thai chilli sauce, prawns with tamarind sauce, squid with salted egg, a fiery southern chilli paste with assorted vegetables (seriously spicy!), coconut milk seafood soup, green curry, sweet and sour fish, braised pork stew, and more. I’ll let the stunning photos do the rest of the talking!
Tu Kab Khao Address: 8 Phang Nga Rd., Talad Yai, Muang, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Another great place to dine in Phuket is at Raya, known as one of Phuket’s most famous restaurants! Housed in a beautifully preserved Sino-Portuguese house, Raya is known for preserving original Phuket-style Thai dishes. The signature dishes include: the deep-fried sea bass with shallots and red chillies in tamarind and lemongrass sauce, fried pork belly with basil leaves, as well as a sensational crabmeat curry served with rice vermicelli! Make sure to try them when you visit!
Raya Address: 48 New Dibuk Road, Phuket Old Town, Thailand
7. Go crazy eating varieties of street food at Phuket Tasty Fest
Held during mid September, the Phuket Tasty Fest was held to celebrate the diversity and variety of flavours and dishes on the island. As a cultural melting pot where many have settled down over the years, the amalgamation of different cultural elements and traditions has resulted in uniquely Southern dishes that cannot be found anywhere else! There were even live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs, who made their dishes using local ingredients such as lobsters. I happily rewarded my empty stomach with all the local delicacies, fried snacks, and fusion foods available!
It was truly fascinating to learn more about Phuket’s diverse culinary culture, and to personally see how these dishes are prepared!
8. Explore ancient temples and shrines
Image credit: Travel_Motion via CanvaPro
Phuket’s history is deeply intertwined with its religious heritage, and the island boasts numerous impressive temples and shrines. Here are a few must-visit destinations:
Wat Chalong is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Phuket, renowned for its intricate architecture and the golden Buddha image housed within. Nestled amidst lush greenery, Wat Phra Nang Sang offers a serene escape. The temple’s stunning location provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Additionally, Wat Karon is a historic temple worth exploring, with its towering chedi and peaceful ambience. Discover the rich cultural heritage of Phuket while immersing yourself in the tranquillity of these sacred sites.
9. Indulge in thrilling activities
Image credit: Wat Chalong Temple | Official Website
Phuket’s stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters offer a playground for adventure seekers. Some thrilling activities to explore include scuba diving and snorkelling in the Andaman Sea and discovering the vibrant underwater world teeming with colourful coral reefs and marine life.
What’s more, challenge yourself with rock climbing adventures in Phuket’s rugged terrain, offering breathtaking views and exhilarating experiences!
10. Visit the Sirinat National Park
Image credit: Tourism Thailand | Official Website
Sirinat National Park, located on Phuket’s northwest coast, offers a diverse range of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy pristine white beaches, explore lush mangrove forests, and marvel at vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
The park is also an important nesting ground for leatherback sea turtles, one of the world’s largest sea turtle species. Witnessing these majestic creatures laying their eggs on the beach is a truly awe-inspiring experience.
BONUS: Stay at the Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa
Nestled amidst Phuket’s idyllic scenery, The Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa offers a luxurious escape. The hotel’s secluded beach, accessible only to guests, provides breathtaking ocean views that will leave you mesmerised. Imagine waking up to panoramic vistas of the lagoon and enjoying perfect weather every day.
With three pools on the property, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding your perfect spot to relax and unwind. The resort’s convenient buggy service ensures easy transportation between the lobby and your room, given the expansive grounds.
One unique feature of the rooms is the glass-walled bathroom, allowing you to soak in the tub while enjoying television or creating a romantic ambience for couples.
Also read: 10 Work-Friendly Cafes in Bangkok for Digital Nomads to Check Out
Phuket, you’ve truly exceeded my expectations! Thank you for an unforgettable experience. I can’t wait to return soon.
I extend my deepest thanks to Westin Siray Bay Resort & Spa and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (Singapore Office) for giving me the opportunity to discover and experience the paradise of Phuket.
