Of the many reasons that draw visitors to Thailand is the country’s rich and interesting cultural history. While Phuket may not have monumental ancient temples the likes of Ayutthaya, Phuket has a rich history and unique culture. Phuket’s cultural heritage ranges from centuries-old traditions to modern expressions which exemplify the diversity of the island. 

Old Phuket Town

Just like much of Phuket, Old Town Phuket has seen a surge in development and modernization over the past half dozen years. Ten years ago only a tiny fraction of international tourists visited Phuket Town, but that has changed significantly. One of the main draws is the unique Sino-Portuguese architecture found around Thalang and Phang Nga Roads. Portuguese traders were some of the first from the Western world to visit Phuket and their influence lives on in the preserved buildings. Many have, or are currently, undergoing renovations and are striking with their vibrant paint, classic shutter, arched doorways, and colorful nightly illumination. 

Phuket Town has been the center of commerce and trade for centuries, dating back to the island’s tin mining heyday. Hundreds of years ago the mining boom attracted large numbers of Chinese immigrants searching for better opportunities. Known as the Straits Chinese (referring to the Strait of Malacca), their imported culture blended with the locals to create the unique community found today.

Heroine’s Monument

Undoubtedly, many resident expats (and probably some Thai people too) drive by the Heroine’s Monument traffic circle often without the slightest idea what it represents. The monument and shrine pay homage to two women who were crucial in the subversion of an attempted invasion of Phuket by the Burmese in 1786. This was a period of extended warfare between invading Burmese armies all around Thailand. A force of 3,000 Burmese soldiers was sent to take Phuket (known as Thalang at the time). The heroines, who were sisters, played an integral role in amassing a defense against the invading army and have been celebrated for these actions for nearly two and a half centuries. About 10 kilometers away is another historical site that also pays homage to the sisters as well as seven other heroes. It’s called the Thalang Victory Monument and is located at the actual site where the battle took place. 

Wat Chalong

If you were only going to visit one temple in Phuket, Wat Chalong would be the one. Of Phuket’s 29 Buddhist temples, Wat Chalong is the largest, most revered, and most visited by locals and tourists alike. 

Built in the early 19th century, Wat Chalong is respected by Buddhists for housing what is said to be a splinter of bone from Buddha as well as once being a place of worship for two monks who helped ward off an attack by the Chinese in the 1800s and for their extensive knowledge of natural medicines. 

The main temple buildings share a similar ornate style and architecture found in many temples in Thailand. However, the 60-meter-tall chedi is quite striking and filled with vibrant murals and sculptures. Visitors are permitted to ascend the stairs where a stunning view can be found.