Wat Chalong stands as a captivating historical landmark and significant Buddhist temple nestled in the serene surroundings of Phuket’s Chalong Bay. Steeped in centuries of tradition, devout locals flock to this sacred site daily for their prayers, while it also serves as a place of learning about Buddhism for curious westerners during their holidays.

Although officially named Wat Chaitararam, it has become widely known and referred to as Wat Chalong. Found on Chao Fa West Road, in the northern region of Tambol Chalong, the temple’s location offers a tranquil and inviting atmosphere for all who visit.

History of Wat Chalong

The infamous Buddhist temple, Wat Chalong, has become the center of numerous stories and legends, with a significant tale revolving around the Chinese Coolie Rebellion of 1876.

Chinese Coolie Rebellion

For centuries, the tin mining industry has stood as a cornerstone of Phuket’s wealth, with a significant workforce comprised mainly of Chinese immigrants.

In 1876, Phuket witnessed the outbreak of the Chinese coolie rebellion, also known as the Angyee Rebellion, which resulted in a considerable loss of life.

Local people came to the temple for advice and help. The abbot of Wat Chalong at the time, Luang Phor Cham, helped the people fight back against the Angyee. But as he was a monk, he couldn’t take part in the fight

Following the cessation of the uprising, King Rama V invited Luang Phor Cham to Bangkok. In recognition of his valor and service, Luang Phor Cham was honored with the prestigious title of Phra Kru Wisit Wongsacharn. A testament to his revered status, a statue of Luang Phor Cham now graces the mondop building within the temple premises.

Luang Phor Cham’s walking stick

The walking stick of Luang Phor Cham is revered for its purported healing powers, with numerous accounts of people being cured of stomach pains after coming into contact with it. This sacred stick remains safeguarded within the ubosot, away from public view.

Wat Chalong Phuket Highlights

One of the most significant Buddhist statues housed within the temple is Poh Than Jao Wat. Additionally, two statues of an old man, known as Ta Khee-lek, can also be found. Legend has it that Ta Khee-lek was a renowned local who achieved fame for winning multiple lotteries after seeking guidance from the Poh Than Jao Wat statue. Another noteworthy statue in the hall is that of Nonsi.

While exploring the temple, you will encounter a gilded statue of Luang Poh Cham in one of Wat Chalong’s halls. Adjacent to it, a display featuring two former temple abbots, Luang Poh Chuang and Luang Poh Gleum, can be observed.

The temple’s highlight is its towering 60-meter-tall stupa, or chedi, which houses a precious splinter of Lord Buddha’s bone. The walls and ceilings of the temple are adorned with intricate wall paintings depicting significant events from Buddha’s life story.

The chedi comprises three floors, each adorned with large golden statues generously donated by devotees. Don’t hesitate to ascend to the top for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the entire temple grounds. As you continue your journey, you will encounter the highly anticipated splinter of Buddha’s bone, and from this vantage point, you can also catch a glimpse of the Big Buddha Phuket.

Dress Code and Behaviors

Thai temples hold immense significance and reverence for the Thai people. As a visitor to this renowned temple, it is vital to display exemplary behavior and respect. One of the best approaches is to observe and emulate the conduct of the local worshippers. It is essential to note that visitors should never position themselves higher than any of the Buddha statues, as this is considered highly inappropriate.

Inside the central temple, you will witness how the locals express their veneration by offering lotus flowers and pieces of gold paper to the statues of the monks. It is a customary practice that reflects their deep devotion.

While Phuket’s climate can be quite hot, it is essential to prioritize modesty when visiting the temple, or any place of worship for that matter. Revealing clothing should be avoided as a sign of respect for the sacred space and the religious practices conducted within. Remember that temples are places of worship, deserving of utmost respect and reverence.

Location & How to get there

Wat Chalong is located at 70 Moo 6 Chaofa Road ( West ) Chalong Phuket.

Wat Chalong is situated approximately 8 km southwest of Phuket Town. When traveling from Central PhuketFloresta Shopping Mall via Chao Fah Nok Road (Chao Fa West Road), the Buddhist temple will be located on the left side of the road.

For those coming from Patong, Wat Chalong is situated a little over 18 km southeast of this well-known Phuket beach.

Opening Hours

The temple welcomes visitors every day from 7 am until 5 pm, providing ample opportunities to explore its splendor. For a more serene experience, it is advisable to plan your visit on a weekday, as weekends and Thai public holidays tend to draw larger crowds, making the temple grounds bustling with activity.

An exciting time to witness the vibrant cultural celebrations is during the Wat Chalong Festival, which takes place annually around Chinese New Year, typically at the end of January. Spanning over 8 days, this festival attracts numerous participants and spectators, leading to a lively and crowded atmosphere at the temple during this period.

Tourists’ Reviews

See what other travelers are saying about Chalong Temple Phuket on TripAdvisor: 

Chris

Wat Chalong temple is a stunning and peaceful masterpiece of Thai architecture that exudes calmness, spirituality, and c
Jun 2023 • Couples
Wat Chalong temple is an exquisite masterpiece of Thai architecture. The stunning temple complex is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Phuket. The intricate carvings and vibrant colors of the temple are simply breathtaking. The temple is a peaceful and serene place that exudes a sense of calmness and spirituality. The staff are friendly and helpful, and the whole area is well maintained and clean. I highly recommend visiting Wat Chalong temple to experience the beauty and tranquility of Thai culture and religion. It’s a definite 5-star attraction!

Jenny W

Lovely Temple
Apr 2023 • Family
Beautiful temple. Well worth a visit. Lots to see across the grounds with stunning murals and lots of gold buddahs. Some lovely views if you climb to the top too!