Wat Phra Thong is a Buddhist temple in Thep Krasattri, in Phuket’s Thalang district, known for its half-buried Golden Buddha. Visit with time to observe quietly and give worshippers space to pray.
Wat Phra Thong and the Half-Buried Buddha
The temple is also known as Wat Phra Phut, a name referring to the Buddha image emerging from the ground. The visible image has a gold-leaf covering.
According to tradition, a boy tied his buffalo to an object protruding from the ground, unaware that it was part of a Buddha image. The legend tells of the boy and buffalo dying, followed by a dream that led his father to discover the image. In one telling, swarms of wasps prevented people from digging it out.
These stories belong to the temple’s religious tradition; they should not be read as a documented account of its founding.
Plan Your Visit
Use the full name Wat Phra Thong (วัดพระทอง) when arranging transport, and confirm the destination with your driver. Arrange your return journey before setting out.
Visiting hours are commonly listed as about 7:00–17:00 daily. Confirm current hours and access to worship spaces locally before travelling.
For transport planning, see our guide to the best way to travel around Phuket. If you are considering a Phuket city tour, ask whether Wat Phra Thong can be included before booking.
Dress and Behave Respectfully
Follow general Thai Buddhist temple etiquette: cover your shoulders and knees, remove shoes before entering worship halls, and follow posted instructions.
Speak quietly, silence your phone and keep entrances clear. When sitting near a Buddha image, point your feet away from it. Give people room to pray without interruption.
Check signs before taking photographs inside. Avoid photographing people during prayer without their permission, and never climb on Buddha images or historic structures for a photograph.
For more preparation, read our guide to Thai cultural etiquette.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wat Phra Thong known for?
Wat Phra Thong is known for its half-buried Golden Buddha. Stories about the image’s discovery and failed attempts to excavate it are told as local religious tradition.
Where is Wat Phra Thong in Phuket?
Wat Phra Thong is in Thep Krasattri, in Phuket’s Thalang district. Confirm the full temple name when arranging transport.
What should I wear to Wat Phra Thong?
Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering worship halls and follow the temple’s posted instructions.
What are the visiting hours for Wat Phra Thong?
Hours are commonly listed as about 7:00–17:00 daily. Confirm current hours and access to worship spaces locally before travelling.