Private Guided Tour: Amazing Phuket Island & Big Buddha

Northern Thailand , Thailand

Private Guided Tour: Amazing Phuket Island & Big Buddha

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(65 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Experience the highlights of Phuket on this Private Tour: Amazing Phuket Island & Big Buddha Guided Tour.

After you're picked up from your hotel, make your way to Patong Beach—one of the most popular beaches in the area. From there, continue to Karon Viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of 3 beaches—Kata, Kata Noi, and Karon.

Make your way to the Wat Chalong, one of the most venerated temples in Phuket. A further stop will be made so you can admire the magnificence of the island's Big Buddha.

Lastly, head back to Phuket Town. Pop into a cashew factory to taste and shop for nutty souvenirs, and then admire the historic Sino-Portuguese architecture of the city. Your outing ends at the Gems Gallery, where you can opt to stay and shop before hopping back to your Hotel.

Available options

Cruise Port

Private Tour: Private Tour with pick up and drop off from Phuket Port<br/>Pickup included

Private Tour: Amazing Phuket Island & Big Buddha Guided Tour

Duration: 5 hours<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Sampling at cashew nut factory

Return Hotel Transfers (except port)

All Fees and Taxes

Entrance Fees

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Professional private local guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Patong is a beach resort town on the west coast of Phuket Island, facing the Andaman Sea in the southwest of Thailand. Its sandy, crescent beach is lined with cafes, restaurants and bars

Well-known destination for picturesque views of the ocean, beaches & lush island surroundings.

Karon Beach refers to a beach, and the town adjoining it, on the west coast of Phuket, Thailand. The beach is a popular destination for tourists. Generally quieter than neighbouring Patong, it is popular with families and couples

Stop 4

The most important of the 29 buddhist temples of Phuket is Wat Chalong or formally Wat Chaiyathararam, located in the Chalong Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District.

Stop 5 Pass by

Phuket City, on Phuket Island, is the capital of Thailand’s Phuket Province. In the Old Town, Thalang Road is lined with colorful 19th-century shophouses and Sino-Portuguese buildings.

A visit to the cashew nut factory in Phuket is a must for cashew nut lovers.

The Cashew nut is a native produce that is grown in Phuket and other provinces of Southern Thailand, and are relatively cheap compared to prices in Western countries.

Stop 7

Phuket's Big Buddha is one of the most important and revered landmarks on the island. The huge image sits on top of the Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata and, at 45 metres tall, can be seen from as far away as Phuket Town and Karon Beach.

What's not included

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

TH EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

31 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

34 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Restroom facilities available

Infant seats are available but cannot be guaranteed. They are on a 'first booked-first served basis'

If you are being picked up in Rawai, you will be picked up after the tour stops at Patong Beach.

The last stop is at Gems Gallery International, the biggest gem store and factory in the world. Take advantage of complimentary soft drink, the air-conditioned lounge, the cinema and visit the factory and the enormous store with your own personal assistant. You may CHOOSE to stay here for as long as you want OR leave straight away, the choice is yours and your guide will see that you receive transportation back to your hotel as quickly as possible.

One of Phuket's largest sources of income comes from Cashew Nuts. A brief, yet popular, visit will be made to one of the island's first Cashew Nut factories. Enjoy free samples. Any purchases are optional and at your own expense

Should your travel plans change, do not worry. I Asia Thailand will do all possible to change your booking to fit with your new travel arrangements free of charge.

This is a private tour including guide. This is one price for 1 - 8 passengers (same price) not per person price

**Due to a landslide in September 2024, the Big Buddha is temporarily closed for safety reasons. Visitors can still see the Big Buddha from a viewpoint, but entry is not permitted at this time. This message will be updated once the site reopens.**

Important notes

I Asia Thailand will contact you immediately after your booking to reconfirm your booking. Please ensure that you have entered the correct contact details upon booking.

If you have not been contacted by I Asia Thailand, please call us at +66 96 821 3089 (hours of operation are from 08.00am to 18.00pm Monday to Friday and 09.00am to 17.00pm Saturday and Sunday) or email to guest@iasiathailand.com

If you will not be arriving at your destination with sufficient time to ensure reconfirmation, please contact the local service provider prior to travel.

Upon pickup, please present your confirmation/voucher or photo ID in exchange for your activity.

About Northern Thailand

Northern Thailand is renowned for its lush mountains, vibrant hill tribes, and rich cultural heritage. This region offers a mix of ancient temples, bustling markets, and serene natural landscapes, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.

Top Attractions

Doi Suthep-Pui National Park

This national park is home to the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a stunning temple with panoramic views of Chiang Mai. The park offers lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Nature Half day to full day Free (temple entry fee: 50 THB)

Chiang Mai Old City

The Old City is the historic heart of Chiang Mai, surrounded by ancient walls and moats. It is filled with temples, markets, and traditional Thai architecture.

Historical/Cultural Full day Free (temple entry fees vary)

Pai

Pai is a charming mountain town known for its relaxed atmosphere, hot springs, and stunning landscapes. It is a popular destination for trekking, cycling, and exploring waterfalls.

Nature/Adventure Overnight stay recommended Moderate (accommodation, activities, and food)

Wat Rong Khun (White Temple)

Wat Rong Khun is a striking white temple in Chiang Rai, known for its unique and modern architecture. The temple's intricate details and symbolic design make it a must-visit attraction.

Religious/Architecture Half day Free (donations appreciated)

Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park is a renowned elephant sanctuary in Chiang Mai, dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of elephants. Visitors can observe and interact with elephants in a ethical and responsible manner.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate to Expensive (depending on the tour)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Khao Soi

A popular Northern Thai curry noodle soup with a unique blend of creamy coconut milk and spicy curry broth, topped with crispy fried noodles and pickled mustard greens.

Dinner Contains dairy and may contain allergens.

Sai Oua (Northern Thai Sausage)

A flavorful sausage made from minced pork, herbs, and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled.

Snack Contains pork and may contain allergens.

Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)

A spicy salad made from shredded unripe papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a tangy dressing made with lime juice, fish sauce, and chili peppers.

Lunch Contains fish sauce and may contain allergens.

Popular Activities

Hiking and trekking Elephant sanctuaries and camps Whitewater rafting Spa and wellness treatments Yoga and meditation retreats Visiting hot springs Visiting temples and historical sites Attending traditional festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the best time to visit Northern Thailand due to the pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels enhance the overall travel experience.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Thai
Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas), Northern Thai (Lanna) dialects
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural regions

Currency

Thai Baht (THB)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Northern Thailand is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, it is important to be aware of common scams, petty theft, and the risks associated with outdoor activities and transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.
• Use reputable tour operators and travel agencies when booking tours and activities.
• Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.

Getting there

By air

Chiang Mai International Airport • 3 km from city center
Chiang Rai International Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Chiang Mai Railway Station, Lampang Railway Station

By bus

Chiang Mai Arcade Bus Station, Chiang Mai Old Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Songthaews are the most common form of public transport in Northern Thailand. They are converted pickup trucks with two bench seats in the back. They follow fixed routes and are a cheap and convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nimmanhaemin (Nimman) Area Santitham Wat Ket

Day trips

Doi Inthanon National Park

90 km from Chiang Mai • Full day

Doi Inthanon National Park is known as the 'Roof of Thailand' and offers stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The park is home to the highest peak in Thailand and is a popular destination for nature lovers.

Mae Sa Valley

30 km from Chiang Mai • Half day

Mae Sa Valley is a picturesque valley known for its scenic landscapes, waterfalls, and elephant camps. The valley is a popular destination for outdoor activities and offers a variety of attractions for visitors.

Mae Kampong Village

60 km from Chiang Mai • Half day

Mae Kampong Village is a traditional Hmong village nestled in the mountains near Chiang Mai. The village is known for its beautiful terraced fields, traditional wooden houses, and welcoming locals.

Festivals

Yi Peng Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (usually November) Songkran Festival • 13-15 April Loi Krathong Festival • Full moon of the 12th lunar month (usually November)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Thai phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture.
Hire a local guide or join a tour to gain a deeper understanding of the region's history, culture, and natural beauty.
Try local street food and visit night markets for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
Visit temples and religious sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Pack light, comfortable clothing and a good pair of walking shoes for exploring the region's many attractions and activities.