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Phuket is an island city that boasts pristine beaches, turquoise water, adventure activities, and an engaging nightlife, but there is something about it that differentiates it from other island cities, which can only be felt in person. May is a relatively quiet time when the tourist numbers are a little low. It is the wettest month of Phuket, but you will see it unfolding an entirely new version that not many get to witness. If you are more of a nature lover, you will find some of the best places to visit in Phuket in May.
Places To Visit In Phuket In May
Here is a list of a few places to visit in Phuket in May that promise you an unforgettable tropical escapade.
1. Phi Phi Islands
Phi Phi Islands deserve to be at the top of any list of places to visit in Phuket. In May, with the arrival of the rainy season, it unfolds even more striking views with its towering cliffs, unspoiled beaches, and turquoise blue water. It is a group of 6 islands with Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh as primary spots, where the major activities take place. While Phi Phi Leh offers a more serene ambience as a part of a protected national Park, Phi Phi Don has more vibrant energy with beachside restaurants, energetic nightlife, and plenty of adventure activities.
Location: 45 kilometres from Phuket
Timings: 24*7
2. Patong Beach
Patong Beach becomes a calming spot in May with a dip in the tourist numbers. It is famous amongst tourists because it offers everything that suits the diverse tastes of visitors like soft golden sand, clean beaches, water adventures, and a high-energy nightlife. The day offers you to indulge in sunbathing, relaxing, swimming, and other activities, but at night, the beach becomes a hub for night fun, and it is also known as the nightlife capital of Phuket. With bars, restaurants, pubs, street performances, and LIVE music, it boasts an entirely different image.
Location: Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
3. James Bond Island
Photo: Anastasia Yudin / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The name is indeed catchy but it is a title given to Khao Phing Kan for being an iconic location featured in the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.” The sky-soaring limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and the majestic Karst formations make it nature’s best gift. You can also explore the caves, beaches, and lagoons that this island houses. It is also a part of the Ao Phang Nga National Park for its thriving marine life and dense mangroves. Another interesting spot that you must visit is Koh Panyee, a floating fishing village where you can enjoy freshly picked seafood.
Location: Phang Nga Bay, northeast of Phuket
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: 150 Thai Baht onwards
4. Big Buddha
Big Buddha is renowned for its panoramic views of Phuket and the immense regard it holds amongst people. Also a place of worship, Big Buddha is made of white marble and is 45 metres tall, making it Phuket’s tallest idol. It sits on Nakkerd Hill and gives a 360-degree view of Phuket further stretching to the Andaman Sea. The Buddha is a representation of peace, faith, and harmony, and you can learn more about its construction at the bottom of the idol through displays and exhibits. You will also find numerous golden Buddhas sitting throughout the place.
Location: Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Timings: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Bangla Road
Photo: French Sweetie / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you are not just looking to explore nature’s bliss while on your trip to Phuket and have an intention for a more lively experience, Bangla Road is your destination. Sitting in the very heart of Patong Beach, it is Phuket’s liveliest place with streets lit up in neon lights, and numerous nightclubs, pubs, and bars lining the road. Here, you can relish live music and performances, setting up the vibe for the night. Not just the bars and pubs, but you will also find night markets to shop from and stalls to try local dishes.
Location: Soi Bangla, Patong, Kathu, Phuket 83150 Thailand
Timings: 6 PM – 4 AM
Entry Fees: Free
6. Rang Hill Viewpoint
Photo: Harry Cooke / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Otherwise known as Khao Rang, Rang Hill Viewpoint is the best spot to witness the peak natural beauty of Phuket’s coastline. The place is particularly famous for its sunrise and sunset views transitioning through different hues with lush greenery surrounding it, and occasional showers make the view more beautiful. On top, you will also find a golden statue of Buddha, a small temple, and a park to unwind. For a cosier experience, visit Tunk Ka Cafe, which is quite famous in the area. Stay aware of the monkeys as they inhabit the hill in quite large numbers.
Location: 145/5 Patiphat Rd, Tambon Wichit, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: Free
7. Jui Tui Shrine
Photo: Jeff G. / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Phuket Old Town, Jui Tui Shrine is a Chinese Temple holding high regard amongst locals. The shrine is dedicated to the Chinese God of arts and dance, Tean Hu Huan Soy. Constructed in a traditional Chinese way, the shrine’s interiors are made of gold and red, and feature detailed engravings and religious altars. The temple performs daily rituals and prayers, and you most likely witness them. Throughout the temple, you will encounter mythical figures from Chinese mythology. The shrine reflects the long-running Chinese spiritual, religious, and cultural heritage, and how it became an important part of Phuket.
Location: 283 Soi Phutorn, Tambon Talat Nuea, Amphoe Mueang Phuket, Chang Wat Phuket 83000, Thailand
Timings: 8 AM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
8. Tiger Kingdom Phuket
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
To enrich the experience of the Phuket trip, include Tiger Kingdom Phuket for an interactive wildlife session with nature’s best predators. As the name suggests, Tiger Kingdom allows visitors to interact with tigers in a safe environment and is located in Kathu. You will find tigers of all ages living here, from cubs to old ones. The facility ensures that you are completely safe while you are interacting, touching, and playing with the tigers, as safety measures are put in place. You can also take a break and enjoy meals at a cafe located inside the kingdom.
Location: 118/88 Moo 7, Kathu, Phuket, Thailand
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: 450 Thai Baht onwards
9. Bang Pae Waterfall
Photo: Hieu Duong / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located inside the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, Bang Pae Waterfall is a must-visit spot in Phuket in May. The rainfall adds more volume to the water, making it reach its peak beauty and grandeur. It is an escape from the regular tourist spots like beaches and islands, and takes you deeper into Phuket’s natural splendour. To reach the waterfall, you have to take a short hike, which is quite easy to accomplish, but the way through the jungle makes it thrilling. Throughout the way, you will witness plants, wildlife, and gibbons as the area also houses the Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre.
Location: Bangpae Waterfall, Pa Klok, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: 200 Thai Baht onwards
10. Thalang National Museum
Photo: Roma Neus / Wikimedia Commons
Another escape from the cliched beaches and islands, Thalang National Museum is a must-visit spot to learn about Phuket’s history and heritage. Located in Thalang District, the museum was constructed in 1985 and opened to the public in 1989 to educate people about its rich heritage. It displays information about the important events that shaped the present of Phuket. It features the Prehistoric Andaman Era, the Tin Mining Industry, the Battle of Thalang, and the Burmese Invasion. The museum has well-organized galleries and houses artefacts, traditional costumes, exhibits on Sea gypsy culture, trading routes and Buddhist and Chinese influence.
Location: 217 Tambon Si Sunthon, Amphoe Thalang, Chang Wat Phuket 83110, Thailand
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM (closed on Monday and Tuesday)
Entry Fee: 100 Thai Baht onwards
May in Phuket is a time when nature shows its peak beauty with short rain showers throughout the day. From historic museums to gushing waterfalls, there are many astonishing places to visit in Phuket in May. You can also visit all the famous spots as rain will not cause any inconvenience. Plan your trip with TripXL and get ready for a serene escape in this idyllic abode.
Cover Photo: Kirandeep Singh Walia / Pexels
