Phuket Sightseeing Tour: Viewpoints, Wat Chalong & Old Town

What you will see

The route starts at Karon Viewpoint, where Kata Noi, Kata and Karon beaches line up below you, then continues to the Windmill Viewpoint and Promthep Cape, the southernmost tip of Phuket. On the way there is a stop at the Chao Leh sea gypsy market and a chance to feed and photograph a baby elephant if you wish.

Next comes the Wat Chalong temple, followed by the hill of the Big Buddha. If a monk is present, you can receive the popular sai sin blessing bracelet. There is no confirmed reopening date for the Big Buddha itself, so the visit centers on the viewpoint beside it.

The last part of the day belongs to Phuket Town: a short walk on your own through the atmospheric old streets, then Rang Hill, a lookout where wild monkeys often appear and can be fed if they come out.

How the tour works

Pickup is in the morning and you are back at your hotel in the early afternoon. The group travels by minivan, and the Russian-speaking guide tells the story of each place during the drive but does not accompany guests around the stops, so you explore each location at your own pace.

Who it suits

It is a great first-day tour for anyone new to Phuket, including families: children have their own ticket from age 4. Hotels in Kalim and further north pay a small pickup surcharge.

Tips

Temples have a dress code: women should cover their knees and shoulders, so bring a light scarf or sarong. Wear comfortable shoes for the old town, carry water and a hat, and keep some small change for the elephant or monkey feeding.