Wat Chalong - A Temple of Healing & History

Shannon
Sep 30
3 min read

Phuket’s Spiritual Heartbeat

Built in the early 19th century, Chalong Temple (or 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. The temple is particularly renowned for its association with several highly respected monks, two of whom played pivotal roles in leading the local population to victory against the Chinese rebellion in 1876. Their bravery and leadership continue to be celebrated, making Chalong Temple not only a place of worship but also a symbol of resilience and cultural pride for the people of Phuket.

Ornate Thai temple with red and gold roofs under a blue sky. Lush greenery in front, with an elephant sculpture and a gardener.

The large, manicured grounds are dotted with traditional Thai temples and several religious structures which include halls, pavilions, a functional monastery, a crematorium and a lotus pond. The most dominant building is the 60 metre high 'Chedi’, the grand pagoda which guards a sacred relic, a splinter of bone from Buddha himself. Walls and ceilings are elaborately decorated with beautiful murals and paintings, illustrating the lives and teachings of Buddha. Many gilt statues stand in honour within the temples halls.

Historic Wat Chalong Temple is also deeply connected to the tradition of healing. Two former abbots of the temple gained renown for their expertise in herbal medicine and their dedication to helping the local community. Known for their ability to treat injuries and ailments with traditional remedies, these monks became trusted figures in the region. They not only used their knowledge of healing plants but also offered sanctuary to those suffering from illness, providing both physical care and spiritual solace. This long standing association with healing further enhances the temple’s revered status, making it a place of both spiritual and physical wellbeing.

White Buddha statue surrounded by ornate gold and blue arches, flanked by statues and white flowers, with colorful mural in the background.

Today, Wat Chalong serves two important purposes. It functions as a spiritual centre for the local community, where Buddhists gather to pray for health, prosperity, good fortune and well-being. Devotees offer candles symbolising the path of light, lotus flowers which represent purity and fragrant joss sticks as part of their prayers. The temple also acts as an educational and cultural hub for thousands of foreign visitors who come each year. It provides valuable insights into Buddhist practices and serves as an introduction to Phuket’s rich religious heritage, welcoming travellers who seek both knowledge and inspiration.

🗺️ Location

Wat Chalong, Chaofa West Road, Chalong, Mueang Phuket, Phuket, Thailand

🚆 How to get there

Chalong Temple is located about 10 km's south of Phuket Town, just east of Kata Beach in the southeastern corner of the island. From most beach resorts, you can reach the temple by taxi or tuk-tuk in roughly 30 minutes. Expect to pay around 400 - 600 THB for a taxi and 300 - 400 THB for a tuk-tuk, though prices may vary slightly. If you’re traveling with a group or prefer convenience, taxis are generally more comfortable, while tuk-tuks offer a more local, open air experience.

⭐ Attraction Info

Wat Chalong is open daily between 7am - 5pm, welcoming visitors year round. Admission remains free, though donations to support the temple’s upkeep are always appreciated. For a more peaceful experience, plan your visit on a weekday, as weekends and Thai public holidays tend to draw huge crowds. With tourism picking up, the temple grounds can get especially busy, so arriving early is recommended. As with all sacred sites, remember to show respect by removing your shoes before entering temple buildings and dressing modestly, covering shoulders, arms and legs is required. Observing these practices ensures a meaningful and respectful visit for both yourself and the local community.