|
Phuket offers a plethora of opportunity when it comes to attractions. Whether you are looking for something adventurous or peaceful, there is a variety of activities to suit all budgets and dispositions. The tourist beaches are abundant with tour guides to sell you the best experiences; here are some things to be sure not to miss:
View Points
The most spectacular view in Phuket is from Prom Thep Cape on the south-western tip of the island, a short trip from Kata Beach . On a clear day you can see all the way to Koh Phi Phi and all the islands in between. Look out for the distinctive Buddhist Monsastry on Koh Kaew island. You can climb up the lighthouse for an uninterrupted, dazzling view of your surroundings and it's a popular spot to watch the sunset.
Surrounding Islands of Koh Phi Phi
Take the ferry or a private speedboat out to the famous islands of Koh Phi Phi. Of the two islands, Koh Phi Phi Don is mostly uninhabited jungle with a small beachside section dedicated to a thriving tourism trade with bars restaurants and accommodation. The smaller island, Koh Phi Phi Lei, is all National Park. Their sheer limestone cliffs rise out of the sea to create a spectacular landscape, creating the most amazing journey by boat. Once you reach the islands, about 45km from Phuket, take a leisurely long-tail boat trip around the islands and be awestruck by the natural beauty of the tiny inlets, private coves and stunning rock formations. There are plenty of other activities here, such as diving, parasailing, trekking and shopping, as well as picturesque beachfront bars. There is accommodation for every budget – from beach huts to five-star resorts.
National Parks
Head to the northern end of Phuket Island and you will discover the tranquillity, serenity and natural beauty of the wildlife reserves and national parks, the largest of which is the Khao Phra Taew Royal Wildlife & Forest Reserve. The reserve offers untouched rainforest inhabited by a diverse range of wildlife including langurs, deer, sun bears, wild boar, monkeys and gibbons. There are hiking trails through the forest and guides are available for hire from the park's headquarters at the main entrance to the reserve. Also near this entrance is the scenic Ton Sai waterfall as well as a restaurant with spectacular views over the area.
Taking the opposite entrance to the Khao Phra Taew Royal Wildlife & Forest Reserve brings you to the more spectacular Bang Pae waterfall, or if you have the stamina you can trek the 8km trail from the main entrance. However you get there, the pond at the base of the waterfall is perfect for a refreshing swim. Also at Bang PAe is the Phuket Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre, caring for injured or orphaned gibbons and returning them to the wild. You can visit the centre and even adopt a gibbon!
On the north-western tip of the island is Sirinat National Park , which encompasses a thin stretch of coastline and extends 5km out to sea to include diverse coral reefs and to protect the nesting sites of endangered sea turtles. Mia Khao, Nai Yang and Nai Thon are the three main beaches visited by the turtles between November and February to lay their eggs. The park headquarters is situated at the northern tip and can provide guides for walking trails with an emphasis on wildlife spotting and protection.
Elephant Trekking
For a real Thai experience, visit the Chalong Highlands, a short journey into the mountains, inland from Kata Beach or Chalong. Here you will find an eco-friendly elephant camp where you can learn about caring for these majestic creatures. The elephant trek will take you through jungle trails with spectacular views of Chalong Bay and the surrounding islands. You can see how the young elephants are trained, talk to the mahouts who take care of them, learn some Thai language commands and of course feed them their favourite bananas. Sitting on the back of an elephant is bound to be a little daunting the first time, but it gives you a chance to develop a deep respect for the strength and agility these amazing animals manage to combine.
Thai Boxing
Locally known as Muay Thai, this national sport is an exciting spectacle to watch. If you catch the ringside action between beer bars at Patong Beach , you will see some ferocious fighting, be encouraged to take sides and tip the winner as he emerges triumphantly from the ring for a victory lap with his cup, cap or beer cooler to collect donations. Alternatively, you can visit the Phuket Boxing Stadium in Phuket City to witness the competitive rounds fought for status and titles. Here the fighting is just as brutal, with the most professional hard-core fighters saved for the final bout.
|
