20 Amazing Facts About Phuket, Thailand’s Pearl of the Andaman

20 Amazing Facts About Phuket, Thailand’s Pearl of the Andaman

It wins the hearts of travelers from around the world. Thailand’s Pearl of the Andaman is what it is best known as. Phuket is our focus and this island has so much to offer. There are palm-fringed beaches to soak up the sun as you admire the surrounding hilly and green landscape.

Furthermore, Phuket Old Town is a step back in time to immerse yourself in a vast historical heritage. Landmarks like Big Buddha allow unparalleled views of the Island and its environs. It is also a chance for some Island Hopping to the surrounding islands. Lest we forget snorkeling, scuba diving, and luxurious yachting. Catch more detailed insights about Phuket below.

Here are the 20 Amazing Facts About Phuket, Thailand’s Pearl of the Andaman.

1. Phuket is Thailand’s pride as its largest island

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The geological history of this island is remarkable. It was formed around 40 million years ago out of the colliding of two tectonic plates. Thus over time, the landmass emerged from the sea presenting the modern-day area which is Thailand’s largest island.

Moreover, it lies in the Andaman Coast making it and Koh Phi Phi among the most famous islands along this coastline. Phuket is also on the west coast of Southern Thailand which is about 890km from the country’s capital, Bangkok.

The island covers an estimated 550sq kilometers stretching 31 miles or 50 kilometers in length and 9 miles or 15 kilometers wide. The size of this Island is assumed to be equal to the size of Singapore.

Besides, Phuket is surrounded by other smaller islands that add an extra 70 sq km to its land area. With its setting on the Andaman Sea, it is linked to the mainland on the north side by Sarasin Bridge.

2. The name Phuket describes its surrounding

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There are several derivations of the name of this pearl of the Andaman. One of the theories explains that Phuket comes from the root word ‘Bukit’ in the Malay language. It translates to “hill” and this is descriptive of the appearance of Phuket Island from a distance.

Additionally, before the present name, the city was known as Thalang, derived from the old Malay word, ‘Telong’. This word means “cape”. The name Thalang is still a common reference in the northern district of Phuket province, where the old capital was based.

Other names used to refer to Phuket are Junk Ceylon or Junkceylon. These are a corruption of the Malay words ‘Tanjung Salang’ (Cape Salang). This name is mostly seen in Western sources and navigation charts.

3. Phuket is a tropical bliss

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This Island is a haven for people seeking relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. With the year-round warm climate, this location is a perfect destination for sun-seekers.

To add on, the natural beauty of the region complements its strength as a tropical paradise. From the beautiful beaches, and the crystal-clear waters, to the lush rainforests, this island offers magical scenery.

Discover the 10 things you can engage in while visiting Phuket here.

4. Thailand’s Pearl of the Andaman enjoys diverse ethnicity

Other than the pride of sun, sea, and sand in Phuket, this Island has a rich culture and history influenced by diverse ethnicities. The population on this island is a blend of Thai, Chinese, Indian, and Malay descents which in turn influence the culture and traditions in the area. This diversity is showcased through architecture, cuisine, traditions, and festivals.

5. Phuket’s beaches are worth soaking up the sun

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These palm-fringed beaches are stunning and invite visitors to relax and soak up the sun. There are more than 30 beaches and each offers its unique treats.

The west side of Phuket has the most beautiful sand beaches which are great for water adventures such as swimming, snorkeling, and surfing. One of these beaches is Karon Noi beach known for its soft sand and very clear water. The bay area is surrounded by green hills and crystal waters making it a precious gem. Other nearby beaches are Patong and Karon beaches.

6. The old town offers a step back in time

Phuket Old Town or the historic district portrays the area’s history and culture. The colorful lanes display many examples of Sino-Portuguese architecture which is an authentic design unique to Phuket.

Better still, this architectural style is also known as Peranakan style and it involves a fusion of Chinese and Portuguese designs. The design came about when Portuguese immigrants settled in Phuket and they hired Chinese workers to construct shop houses and mansions for them. Thus the interaction of the two cultures resulted in the Sino-Portuguese architecture.

7. Big Buddha is a significant highlight of Phuket

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This sacred site was constructed in 2004 as a source of hope for the future following the aftermath of the disastrous tsunami that hit Phuket the same year. This December 26, 2004, natural disaster killed at least 117 people in Phuket and 36 in nearby Krabi. About 700 people were injured while 214 citizens were recorded as missing.

Thus this Phuket hope symbol is 45 meters tall and can be seen from anywhere within the southern area of Phuket. The white marble statue is an impressive structure that offers 360-degree views of Phuket alongside its surrounding islands.

Big Buddha provides breathtaking views of Phuket making it one of the top ‘Must-Dos in Phuket’. It is free to visit but there is an option to make a small contribution in the facility’s donation box as a gesture of kindness. This is meant to appreciate the site as it was also built from donations.

8. Phuket supports Island Hopping

Engaging in Island Hopping from Phuket creates a memorable experience for any visitor. There is an array of nearby islands and Phuket is a convenient hub to explore these islands which are full of natural beauty. Some of these islands are Koh Phi Phi, Phang Nga Bay, and James Bond Island. Also,  Ko Hong, Koh Racha Noi, Similan Islands, and Surin Islands among others.

9. The Island experiences a monsoon effect

A monsoon is caused by the seasonal change in the direction of the strongest winds in a certain region. Hence this leads to seasons of wetness and dryness throughout the area where the monsoon blows.

On top of that, though Phuket experiences warm year-round weather, it is also affected by a tropical monsoonal climate. Thus the south-west monsoon brings a wet season from May to October. The northeast monsoon ushers dryness between November to April.

10. The James Bond Island is named after the famed series

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The Khao Phing Kan island sometimes known as Ko Ta Pu earned its fame after being featured in the 1974 James Bond movie, The Man with the Golden Gun. This island sits in the blue waters of Phang Nga Bay in Phuket.

Following the appearance in the movie, the island earned the name James Bond Island. The reference was popularized by tour guides and locals alike to the present day. The original names are rarely used to refer to the island.

If you wish to travel from Bangkok to Phuket, check for tips here.

11. The vegetarian festival is a big deal in Phuket

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This is one of the most famous festivals in Thailand as well as in Phuket. It originates from the Chinese culture celebrating their belief in abstinence from meat products and some stimulants to achieve good health and peace of mind.

Furthermore, in Phuket, the festival is called Tesagan Gin Je. It takes place in late September or October with dates dependent on where the 9th lunar month of the Chinese calendar falls. The celebration is a Taoist tradition and is observed for nine days. It is also commemorated in Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

12. The floating village is a magical sight to behold

This floating Muslim village is in Koh Panyee which is a 400 km2 or 150 sq mi bay between the Phuket and the Kra Isthmus mainland. The bay has been part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park since 1981 and is thus a protected area.

What’s more, the floating village is sheltered by a high limestone rock formation making it one of Phuket’s top attractions. The houses where these villagers live are built on stilts over the shallow sea waters in the surroundings.

The population of this village is made up of fishermen. These community members are descendants of seafaring Muslim families from Indonesia’s Java Island.

13. Phuket is a water sports paradise

Phuket is one of the top destinations in the world for snorkeling and scuba diving. Its water features which include stunning reefs, rock formations, and a wide assortment of underwater sea life, make Phuket a perfect fit for divers. The island has fine locations for snorkeling and scuba diving catering for both beginners and skilled divers so they’re in for a great time.

14. This island prides itself in luxe resorts

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With more than 30 dream beaches in Phuket, international tourism has been on an upward trend in the area since its beginning in the 20th century. The Sarasin Bridge is one of the earliest infrastructures linked to boosting tourism activities in the area.

More to it, the bridge was built in 1967 to offer easy access to the island and it became a gateway for hotels and resorts to pop up. By the 1970s, visitors were already pouring into the area and the developments over time have pushed it to the world-level destination it is to date. From hidden coves to the busy shorelines which have lush green hills surrounding them, solidify Phuket as a top tourist destination.

Phuket is also famed among the more expensive areas in Thailand. This is because of its high tourist numbers and upscale facilities such as resorts. To boost this reputation is also an international airport on the island and the fact that the region is known as Asia’s premier beach resort.

Besides the west coast has some of these top-notch resorts along what is known as the Millionaire’s Mile. This is where the most expensive properties of this island are located.

Further, Nai Thon Beach, Layan Beach, Bang Tao Beach, and Kamala Beach are the most famous along this stretch. Thus this romantic scenery, luxurious resorts, and more facilities make Phuket a superb destination for honeymoons and other fun activities.

See the best of Thailand’s beach resorts to save you time searching for the same.

15. Phuket has a history of tin mining

Kathu district of Phuket is where tin was discovered centuries ago around the 19^th century. Tin was mined in the area until 1992 when the last mine was closed.

This tin trade attracted migrant workers from different areas such as South China. Many of these migrants settled in the area permanently even after the closure of the tin business.

16. Patong Otop Shopping Paradise is a nighttime flash of Phuket

This market offers a feel of the nighttime spirit of Phuket since it is busy both day and night. It brings out the liveliness and flash of Phuket anytime. The bustling market has countless stalls that sell anything from souvenirs, clothing, traditional food, and a lot more.

Visitors can indulge in food, and drinks, receive massages, watch performances, and do shopping. There are also A-lister malls that offer local handicrafts as well as international brands.

17. Phuket’s New Year celebrations are marked with water splashes

In Thailand and by extension Phuket, the Buddhist calendar is observed. Thus marking the Thai New Year (Songkran) during the first full moon in April. It is a very important annual festival conducted for three days.

Furthermore, it is also known as the Water Splashing Festival and involves the bathing of Buddha images. The younger Thais are tasked with showing respect to monks and elders during these celebrations. Hence one of the acts to show respect is by being sprinkled water over their hands by the elders.

18. Muay Thai boxing is a significant sport in Phuket

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Throughout Thailand, Muay Thai is the established national sport that carries along a rich history. It was practiced by Young Siamese men who used it for self-defense, exercising, and building discipline. These men were the same ones chosen for the armies that were involved in protecting the Thai Kingdom.

To boot, during the reign of King Narai, he declared Muay Thai a national sport and it has remained so to the present day. In Phuket, the action happens at Bangla Boxing Stadium. It is the most famous boxing stadium on the island and attracts fighters from around the world, some of whom are very experienced in this ancient martial art.

19. The Tsunami Memorial is a reminder of the worth of life

This beautiful attraction referred to as the Tsunami Memorial Park lies in Phuket’s Kathu District. It serves as a reminder of what life is worth as well as how extreme natural calamities can be. The artwork in this park is fantastic especially when it’s lit up with lights.

To add on, the park honors victims of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami that hit hard the west coast of Phuket. It damaged the main beaches on the island such as Patong, Karon, Kamala, and Kata beaches.

Thailand’s tourism industry is on a slow death a matter worth learning about.

20. Phuket is a hotspot of luxury yachting and sailing

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There are many prestigious yacht shows organized in Phuket throughout the year. These events bring together industry professionals and yacht enthusiasts from all over the world.

Over and above that, these shows offer insights into different aspects of yachts explained by the yacht builders and designers. Thus leaving you with the option to compare the different yachts available to make informed choices.

These facts about Phuket are revelations of the beauty that the Thailand island beholds. From its tropical climate, and the historical old town to significant landmarks like Big Buddha, Phuket has established itself as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations.