Accurate records about this is small, unassuming temple are scarce but local belief holds that it predates the founding of the city itself, making it over 800 years old. This would place its origin in the early days of the Lanna Kingdom, likely established under the reign of King Mengrai or his immediate successors. Despite its modest size, Wat Mung Muang has long been a silent witness to the ebb and flow of northern Thailand's political and cultural evolution.

The name “Surat Thani” literally means "City of Good People", a title bestowed by King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) in 1915, recognizing the piousness of its residents. But its roots dig even deeper, this area was once part of the mighty Srivijaya Empire, a Buddhist thalassocratic (sea-based) kingdom that thrived from the 7th to the 13th century. You can still sense its grandeur in ruins like the Wiang Sa and Chaiya districts, which hold relics of that once-glorious empire.

Built in the early 19th century, Chalong Temple (Wat Chaitararam) is the largest and most revered of Phuket's 29 Buddhist temples. Located near the southern tip of the island, it attracts both locals and visitors from around the world, drawn by its historical and spiritual significance.

Better known as the White Temple, Wat Rong Khu is a relatively modern Buddhist temple, a privately owned art exhibit and the creation of renowned Thai artist Chalermchai Khositpipat. Once just the forgotten ruins of an abandoned temple, this site has been transformed into a contemporary and visually striking landmark, as an offering to Lord Buddha in the hope of securing eternal life. Construction commenced in 1997 and is expected to be completed in 2070.

Baan Dam is the unique brainchild of famed Thai artist Thawan Duchanee, who started creating the open-air gallery in 1975. Spanning some 160,000 square metres, the peaceful gardens are dotted with 40 ornately decorated buildings and structures, filled to the brim with paintings, animal skulls, horns, sculptures and taxidermy.