Phuket Island has numerous fascinating destinations to visit, but Phuket City is a special one. Tourists can discover many landmarks and venues because the city is a kind of cultural centre of Phuket. These include great examples of old architecture, religious temples and monuments, and entertainment alternatives. To see all these for yourself, take this self-guided tour and enjoy!
1) Wat Nua
Wat Nua is a beautiful Thai temple situated on Ranong Street, in the old part of the city. The temple is considered a must-see for anyone who visits Phuket. Its bright colours, traditional architectural forms, attributes and furniture will intrigue and delight you. Many culturally-significant ceremonies take place at the Wat Nua temple. If you are lucky enough to have the opportunity to see some of them, be sure to do so and share your experiences with your friends and relatives!
Image Courtesy of Flickr and yeowatzup
2) Fruit Market
Located at Ranong Road, this fresh fruit market is the oldest in Phuket City. It is also known as the Downtown Market. The market opens quite early in the morning and vendors sell throughout the entire day, sometimes even until late. You are certain to find some beautiful and delicious fruits and vegetables to purchase. The market's bright colours and enticing smells will contribute to your enjoyment of your snack. Be sure to purchase some produce to enjoy during your walk through the town's streets.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Francis Mayne
3) Suriyadate Fountain
The Suriyadate Fountain is a great place to stop, take a break, and admire the surrounding architecture. It is situated at the traffic circle with the same name at the western end of Rassada Road. The amazing fountain is designed with fish shapes and ''guns'' that spout ever-clean water. Its position at the traffic circle and its unique design has made it well-known among the city's fountains.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and storyvillegirl
4) Shrine of the Serene Light
If you love discovering places and enjoy different facets of a city then Phuket is just the place for you. The city is filled with hidden treasures that are waiting to be discovered and one such place is the Shrine of the Serene Light.
Small but breathtaking, the Shrine is one place that seldom makes it to the tourist map. One reason for this was that, until recently, the Shrine has been hidden behind a cluster of shops and small crowded alleys. It was only after a recent attempt to revamp the entire place, that the Shrine has got a decent entrance to welcome its devotees and visitors.
Located in the old town, off the Phang Nga Road, the Shrine was built by a local Hokkien Chinese family in 1889. Since then, the Shrine has always opened its doors for devotees and curious visitors. Even though it is located in one of the busiest districts of Phuket, one can immediately feel the peace and calm after entering the shrine. Filled with beautiful sculptures and paintings, one can even see the old mural speaking of the glories of the local Chinese hero "Si-in-Gui". Accessed via a small lane next to the On On Hotel, the Shrine of the Serene Light is a must visit in Phuket.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Angela Savage
5) Soi Rommanee
With the sandy beaches, peaceful temples, warm climate, friendly people and luxury that can fit anyone’s budget, Phuket has it all; no wonder it is one of the most popular holiday destinations.
Amidst all the popular attractions scattered around the city, are the smaller, lesser known attractions that sweep you off your feet in Phuket. One such place is the Soi Rommanee! Considered as one of the hidden treasures of this holiday paradise, the Soi Rommanee is a must visit for those who adore architecture, history and, of course, photography.
Located on the Talang Road, the area is filled with row houses that date back over a hundred years. In those days, this area was one of the busiest neighborhoods in the town, and why not, it was the city’s popular brothel! In fact, Rommanee, itself translates to happiness. Although very popular in the old days, as time progressed the locality got deserted with many of the buildings neglected. However, today, the area is fast growing into a trendy residential hub seeing a good number of the row houses retouched and returned to their former glory. If you are lucky you might even spot some rare, vintage cars, since residents of this area just love to collect antiques.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and jeeheon
6) Golden Dragon Temple
For a change of pace from the architecture you have already seen, we advise you to visit the Golden Dragon Temple. This is a wonderful fountain located at Thalang Road near a little river. The Dragon symbolizes the strength of people to defeat their enemies and the danger enemies bring to the nation. In time the golden temple became one of the main meeting points of Phuket, because it is easily recognizable and simple to find, even for first-time visitors to the city.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and GazerShawn
7) Clock Tower
A centrally-located spot of town, the Clock Tower is an old edifice built in the late 1900s. It is situated near the Surin traffic circle and can be easily found. If you have difficulties locating it, you can ask any local. Together with other buildings, the Clock Tower forms a great landscape, especially in the evening lights. The tower is coloured in white and is enhanced by the surrounding flowers. Many notable hotels, bars and restaurants are nearby, as well as great shops. One good stop for souvenirs is the Aubergine, where you can find handmade goods.
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Eustaquio Santimano
8) Yameay Mosque
Because diverse ethnic groups are present on the island, religious life here is represented by different cultures. Here you can find Hindi and Buddhist temples and shrines, Christian and Catholic Churches, as well as mosques. Muslims make up almost 40% of Thailand's population. A beautiful mosque, located at Phuket City, is Yameay Mosque. It is easily recognized by its white colour and large green domes. The interior decor is breathtaking. Many religious elements and artifacts are kept here. It is the perfect spot to conclude your self-guided tour, so do not miss it!
Image Courtesy of Flickr and Eustaquio Santimano