Got just 48 hours to explore the pearl of the Andaman? Don’t worry, this day wise Phuket itinerary covers the best of everything, right from its world famous temples, glorious beaches, fascinating night markets, super scenic islands and of course, its crazy nightlife.
Day 1:
Marvel at the Big Buddha and the Wat Chalong
It’s impossible to travel to Phuket and not check out its famous temples and religious monuments and by that, we mean the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong.
The Big Buddha is an imposing marble white statue which you can spot from many areas. Its splendour is best admired from up close though. Sitting on top of a hill, it affords panoramic views of Chalong Bay. Try reaching before sunrise to witness true magic.
Wat Chalong is the biggest and the most popular temple in Phuket. It is dedicated to two monks whose statues you can see in the main temple. Don’t forget to climb to the roof to enjoy a good view of the temple complex.
Lounge about on its beaches
Phuket is almost synonymous with a life of sun, sand and the sea. With more than 30 beaches fringing the island, you are never far away from a patch of sand.
Start your day with a trip to the beach. Being the busiest and liveliest beach in Phuket, Patong is the people’s favourite. If you are looking to try some thrilling watersports, you should surely give it a visit.
If you need a stretch of sand all to yourself, then drive to Karon, Kata and Kamala beaches. Amidst all the chaos of Phuket, you will enjoy the much-needed isolation here. And the sands are whiter and the waters cleaner.
Watch the sunset at Promthep Cape
Promthep Cape is the southernmost tip of Phuket, and the go-to spot to witness a magical sunset. Around evening time, you will find this place thronged by thousands of selfie stick toting tourists. But don’t let that deter you.
Jostle for space if you have to and get that Instagram worthy sunset shot.
Tip: If you hike to the very edge, you can avoid much of the crowds. Ensure you carry good shoes though.
Party at Bangla Road
Love it or hate it, you can’t ignore Bangla road. The centre of all nighttime action in Phuket, it is one of the craziest party streets in Thailand.
Lined with bars and clubs, thundering beats echoing from each one of them, it’s where the party animals go to let loose. So if you want to experience the best of Phuket’s nightlife, then this is the place to be.
If your idea of partying is chilling with a drink and listening to Bob Marley, then lounge about in the laid-back bars of Kata beach. Reach early to capture some glorious sunset views over the ocean.
Day 2:
Do some Island Hopping around Phuket
Phuket is surrounded by miraculously beautiful islands and if you are travelling to Phuket, no matter for how short a time, you should visit at least one. The people’s choice is usually Phi Phi island or the Phang Nga Bay cruise, which covers the famous James Bond island.
James Bond island, named after being featured in Bond movie is known for its impressive limestone cliffs that pop out of the water, especially a funnel-shaped rock which magically stands in the water despite its narrow bottom.
Its one of the most photographed locations in Thailand. Surely, your computer wallpaper will be adorned with pictures from here after the trip. You can take the trip with tonnes of operators who offer the Phang Nga bay cruise.
Phi Phi island is another celebrity in the island world, again made popular by the movie The Beach. Dicaprio absolutely fell in love with this place, and so will you, once you land up here. A tour to Phi Phi island includes a visit to Maya Bay – a mesmerizing body of green-blue water wrapped around by rocky cliffs. It is a place as dreamy as it gets.
Phi Phi can be easily done as a day trip, but ideally, Phi Phi deserves 48 hours of its own.
Shopping in Phuket Town
A walk around Phuket town is one of the most authentic experiences you can have in Phuket. Far removed from the commercial image of Phuket, the town is steeped in history.
The architecture is European influenced, with Sino-Portuguese shop-houses and quaint mansions lining the streets. Stroll through the alleys, get a cup of coffee at one of the many cafes and just absorb the ambience of the place.
For the shopaholics, Phuket town is probably the best area to stay in Phuket. Its night markets are especially a major hit. They are the best places to look for souvenirs to take back home or buy cheap clothing.
But more than the products on sale, it’s the line of colourful stalls, the bright lighting, the energy and the festive atmosphere that draws travellers in. And it’s a great place to watch locals go about their business and also mingle with them.
If you are not a fan of shopping, no problem, just go there to munch on some of the best street food you can find in Phuket. From grilled meat to good old Pad Thai to an array of delectable desserts, you will find loads of mouthwatering dishes.
Author’s Bio:
Ankit Mahindru
Ankit loves taking the road less travelled. He often wanders about in the places he visits – to meet new people, see new places and to just soak in new experiences. Staying on the move comes naturally to him as a result of growing up in nine cities. He has been to 24 States in India & 5 Counties. He is currently heading towards conquering (Not literally :D) 30 countries by 30.
