Five must-see attractions in Phuket Town

Phuket Town, the capital of the Province of Phuket is a modern tourist town that retains its historic charm, particularly in the Old Town which measures 400,000-square-meters and offers everything you could want for a holiday or retirement home. In this article, we look at the top 5 attractions that Phuket Town has to offer.

Thai Hua Museum

Located in the center of Phuket Town, the Thai Hua Museum occupies a well-maintained Sino-Portuguese building built around 100 years ago. It boasts a museum, exhibition area, and a function hall. In 2008, the museum received an award from the Siam Architect Association for its outstanding role in conserving architectural arts.

Temple of the Serene Light

Once a little-known secret of Phuket Town, The Shrine of the Serene Light (Sang Tham Shrine), was built in 1889 by a wealthy Chinese family and had two entrances, both of which were originally hidden. With the increase in Phuket tourism, the shrine was given a huge entrance in 2010 which can’t be missed and it is now a popular visitor attraction. The shrine itself remains untouched and still displays its original wall paintings and ceramic roof but the garden and surrounding buildings have been entirely rebuilt to make a delightful haven and a great photo opportunity.

Jui Tui Shrine

One of Phuket’s most important Chinese shrines, this red-washed, elevated complex is dedicated to Tean Hu Huan Soy, the god of performers and dancers. It plays a huge role in Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival. Originally located on Soi Romanee, the Taoist shrine dates back to 1911 and was relocated to its current position following a fire. Today it houses a 21st-century firecracker tower. The temple grounds are also impressive. Yellow-and-red-signed vegetarian restaurants line Th Ranong nearby

Old Clock Tower

Constructed in a Colonial style the clock tower is now owned by the Phuket Police. In the early 1900s, watches were expensive and most people in Phuket Town relied on clock towers to know the time. But after the tower was built there was no money left to install the clock and it wasn’t until 1966 that a clock was bought in Penang. But the boat transporting the clock to Phuket sank and it was another ten years before the Phuket Lions Club bought a clock that was actually installed.

Thavorn Hotel Museum

This bizarre, quirky museum is one of a kind and should be on everyone’s list of must-see places in Phuket Town. Hidden away in the original Thavorn Museum it offers a unique insight into life in Phuket Town over the years. The exhibits are an eclectic mix of everyday items and pieces of art which show the ‘real Phuket’. Small but perfectly delightful, this place is highly recommended.