Wat Chalong: A Peaceful Buddhist Temple in Phuket
Wat Chalong (officially known as Wat Chaiyathararam) is one of the most important and popular Buddhist temples in Phuket, located in the southern part of the island in Chalong. This temple is not only a spiritual site for locals but also a major attraction for tourists looking to experience the cultural heart of Phuket. With its beautiful buildings, gardens, and serene atmosphere, Wat Chalong offers visitors the chance to explore Thailand’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Things to See and Do at Wat Chalong
1. The Main Stupa (Chedi) One of the tallest structures at Wat Chalong, the Chedi is an impressive building constructed between 1991 and 2001. The stupa is home to many statues of Buddha and beautiful frescoes depicting the life of Buddha. The Chedi houses a piece of Buddha’s bone relic (a fragment of his shoulder bone, gifted by Sri Lanka in 1999), which is displayed in a glass orb on the third floor. Visitors can take in the stunning views of Phuket from the top floor of the Chedi.
2. The Cross-shaped Viharn The Viharn, or main hall, features statues of three famous monks, including Luang Pho Chuang, Luang Pho Gluama, and Luang Pho Chom, who were known for their healing abilities. Local visitors often pray and make offerings here. A unique tradition is that visitors can place a small piece of gold leaf on the statues, which is believed to bring healing to any part of the body that needs attention.
3. Palm Stick Fortune-Telling In the same Viharn, you can participate in traditional Thai fortune-telling. Take a container of sticks, shake them gently, and pick one. The number on the stick corresponds to a prediction, which you can read from a nearby board. Although the predictions are written in Thai and Chinese, you can use your smartphone to help translate them.
4. Rituals to Drive Away Evil Spirits Visitors may hear the loud bangs of firecrackers throughout the day, used by locals to drive away evil spirits from the temple. You can join in the ritual by participating in the symbolic process, which is believed to bring good luck for several days.
5. The Crematorium and Farewell Hall The crematorium at Wat Chalong is still in use for local ceremonies. Though much of the crematorium is simply a furnace, the building itself is beautiful and offers insight into Thai customs surrounding death and the afterlife. The farewell hall is located nearby, where ceremonies for the deceased are held.
Visiting Wat Chalong
When visiting Wat Chalong, it is important to respect local customs. Visitors should wear appropriate attire — no shorts or sleeveless tops. Shawls or coverings for your shoulders and knees are necessary, and it is customary to remove your shoes before entering the temple. Hats and head coverings should also be removed as a sign of respect.
Photography is allowed in many areas, but visitors should avoid turning their backs to the Buddha statues when taking photos.
Things to Know
- Entry Fee: The temple is free to visit, but donations are encouraged to help maintain the site and support the monks’ activities.
- Opening Hours: Wat Chalong is open daily, with monks often performing ceremonies, so be mindful of prayer times.
- Getting There: Located in Chalong, Wat Chalong is easily accessible by car, tuk-tuk, or public transport.
Why Visit Wat Chalong?
Wat Chalong is not just a place of worship; it’s a cultural and spiritual landmark where visitors can experience the peace of Buddhism, see intricate artwork, and even participate in local traditions. Whether you’re interested in photography, cultural exploration, or simply enjoying the tranquil surroundings, Wat Chalong offers something for every type of traveler. A visit to this iconic temple is an enriching experience and a must-see for anyone visiting Phuket.