Phuket brings to mind miles and miles of white sand beaches and sparkling turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, and a party vibe that can seem like Bangkok-on-the-Beach. The views of Phuket from ground level have been much photographed, and they are as picture-perfect as one can expect of a tropical island paradise. Zooming out, the views can be as jaw-dropping as they are up close, and it would be well-worth the effort to marvel at Phuket from a high point. After all, ‘Phuket’ comes from the Malay word ‘bukit’ which means ‘hill.’
Here are some elevated spots from where to enjoy Phuket’s stunning vistas:
1) The Big Buddha of Phuket
This viewpoint offers exhilarating views of Kata and Andaman Sea in one direction, and the Chalong Bay in another. The 45-meter high Buddha is nestled atop Nakkerd Hills, but is easily accessible via Karon Beach.
2) Karon Viewpoint
One of the most well-trodden viewpoints in Phuket, Karon offers unhindered views of Kata, Kata Noi and Karon Beaches. Sunset views are spectacular too!
3) Laem Promthep
A rocky headland in the southernmost part of Phuket that juts out into open sea, Promthep Cape is a popular sunset viewpoint, and for good reason. The view from here is unobstructed, and sunsets on a clear day are mesmerizing. As this is rather a touristy area loved by locals as well, there is live music and fire dancing and all sorts of street entertainment. For relative peace and quiet, head to the shrine of elephant images where people pray as the sun sets – a good escape to enjoy the views away from incessant chatter.
4) Naiharn/Yanui Viewpoint
This vantage point can easily be picked out from afar because of the giant wind turbine on the site. Get to the south side of the Naiharn Lagoon and scramble up the hill to the wind turbine. The path can easily accommodate a scooter but not anything bigger. The place is a good spot to scope out Yanui beach, and an ideal staging point for paragliding enthusiasts.
5) Radar Hill
A big dome on a hill behind Patong Beach is Radar Hill, well within Phuket town but rarely visited. The roads are steep and the area is guarded (being a military installation) but getting into the area means seeing the entire Patong Beach and Bang Wad Reservoir.
6) Khao Kad View Tower at Cape Panwa
Despite the tower facility built purposely for tourists, Khao Kad is rather quiet and not as crowded as the investors had expected, which is great if you are hoping to snag some alone time away from the crowds of Promthep. The tower affords 360 degree views of Chalong Bay on the west, Phuket Town on the north, Phi Phi across the east, and some islands towards the south. Because Cape Panwa is still forested, you might chance some eagles flying overhead as you take in the views!
Last but not least, get a window seat when flying to Phuket. The aerial view of the Phang Nga Bay, Phi Phi and Phuket itself can only be described as ethereal, so get ready with your camera for unforgettable shots!
Photos by e-dredon, blake_lennon, Del Adams, Amici di Phuket and wahyubumi
