Are you looking for a spiritual and cultural experience in Phuket? Do you want to discover the history and significance of one of the most revered temples in Thailand? If so, you should not miss Wat Chalong, the largest and most famous Buddhist temple in Phuket.
Wat Chalong, also known as Wat Chaiyathararam, is a stunning complex of buildings and statues that dates back to the 19th century. It is dedicated to two monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang, who played an important role in the fighting between Chinese secret societies in Phuket. The temple is also home to a sacred relic of the Buddha, which is enshrined in a magnificent pagoda.
In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know about Wat Chalong, including what to expect, how to visit, and some frequently asked questions. We will also share some tips and tricks to make your visit more enjoyable and memorable. By the end of this article, you will be ready to explore Wat Chalong and experience its beauty and spirituality.
What To Expect at Wat Chalong
Wat Chalong is a sprawling complex of buildings and statues that covers an area of 18 acres. There are many things to see and do at Wat Chalong, but here are some of the highlights that you should not miss:
The Chedi: The chedi is a dome-shaped structure that contains the ashes of the two revered monks, Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang. The chedi is decorated with intricate carvings and paintings that depict the life and teachings of the Buddha. You can also see the statues of the two monks inside the chedi, where many devotees come to pay their respects and make offerings.
The Statues: Wat Chalong is filled with various statues of the Buddha and other religious figures, such as the Bodhisattvas, the guardians, and the animals. Some of the statues are very impressive and colorful, such as the golden Buddha, the reclining Buddha, and the laughing Buddha. You can also see some statues of famous monks and historical figures, such as King Rama V and King Rama IX.
The Pagoda: The pagoda is the most striking and spectacular feature of Wat Chalong. It is a 60-meter-high tower that houses a sacred relic of the Buddha, which was brought from Sri Lanka in 1999. The pagoda is adorned with gold and glass, and has four floors that display various images and artifacts related to Buddhism. You can climb up the stairs to the top floor, where you can see the relic and enjoy a panoramic view of the temple and its surroundings.
The Miracles: Wat Chalong is not only a place of worship, but also a place of miracles. Many people believe that the temple has healing powers, and that the two monks can grant wishes and protect them from harm. You can see many testimonies of the miracles at Wat Chalong, such as the firecrackers that did not explode, the bullet that did not penetrate the monk’s robe, and the snake that did not bite the monk. You can also try to experience the miracles yourself, by lighting a firecracker, rubbing the monk’s belly, or drinking the holy water.
How To Visit Wat Chalong
Wat Chalong is open daily from 7 am to 5 pm, and admission is free. However, there are some things that you should know and do before and during your visit, such as:
Dress appropriately: As a sign of respect, you should dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees when visiting Wat Chalong. You should also remove your shoes before entering any of the buildings, and avoid wearing hats or sunglasses inside the temple.
Follow the etiquette rules: You should also follow some basic etiquette rules when visiting Wat Chalong, such as keeping quiet, not pointing your feet at the Buddha or the monks, not touching the statues or the relics, and not taking photos with flash. You should also be mindful of the local customs and traditions, such as bowing, making offerings, and receiving blessings.
Plan your transportation: Wat Chalong is located about 10 kilometers south of Phuket Town, and about 15 kilometers east of Patong Beach. You can reach the temple by various means of transportation, such as taxi, bus, tuk-tuk, or motorbike. However, the most convenient and affordable way is to rent a motorbike or a car, which will give you more flexibility and freedom to explore the temple and its surroundings.
Combine your visit with other attractions: Wat Chalong is not the only attraction in the area, and you can easily combine your visit with other nearby attractions, such as:
Chalong Bay Rum: If you are a fan of rum, you should not miss the opportunity to visit Chalong Bay Rum, a local distillery that produces high-quality rum from Thai sugarcane. You can take a tour of the distillery, learn about the production process, and taste some of the products. You can also buy some bottles or souvenirs at the shop, or enjoy a cocktail at the bar.
Windmill Viewpoint: If you are looking for a scenic spot to enjoy the view of the sea and the sky, you should head to Windmill Viewpoint, a hilltop location that overlooks the Chalong Bay and the Ya Nui Beach. You can see some windmills that generate electricity, as well as some benches and tables where you can relax and have a picnic. You can also watch the paragliders who launch from the hill and fly over the bay.
Hat Rawai: If you are looking for a beach to relax and swim, you should go to Hat Rawai, a long and sandy beach that is popular among locals and tourists. You can find many facilities and services at the beach, such as restaurants, bars, shops, massage parlors, and water sports. You can also rent a long-tail boat and visit some of the nearby islands, such as Coral Island, Racha Island, and Bon Island.
FAQs About Wat Chalong
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers about Wat Chalong and its surroundings, that will help you plan your visit and make the most of your experience:
When is the best time to visit Wat Chalong?
The best time to visit Wat Chalong is in the morning or in the evening, when the temperature is cooler and the crowds are smaller. You can also visit Wat Chalong during some of the festivals and celebrations that take place throughout the year, such as the Chinese New Year, the Songkran Festival, and the Loy Krathong Festival. However, you should expect more people and noise during these events, and be respectful of the local culture and customs.
How long does it take to visit Wat Chalong?
It depends on how much time you want to spend at Wat Chalong, and how interested you are in the history and significance of the temple. However, a typical visit to Wat Chalong takes about one to two hours, which is enough to see the main attractions and features of the temple, and to experience its atmosphere and spirituality.
Conclusion
Wat Chalong is a must-see attraction for anyone who visits Phuket, and a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural aspects of Thailand. Whether you are a devout Buddhist or a curious traveler, you will find something to enjoy and appreciate at Wat Chalong, from the stunning architecture and art, to the sacred relics and statues, to the miraculous stories and events.
If you are ready to explore Wat Chalong and experience its beauty and spirituality, you can book your trip with Tripoto, the leading online travel platform that offers the best deals and packages for your travel needs. You can also find more information and tips about Wat Chalong and other attractions in Phuket on our website and blog. Don’t miss this chance to discover one of the most sacred and spectacular temples in Thailand, and make your visit to Phuket unforgettable.
