Phuket

From Halal Explorer

Kata Beach Phuket panorama.jpg

Phuket (ภูเก็ต), pronounced (roughly) "puh-KET", is Thailand's largest island. It is 48 km in length, 21 km at its widest, and is in Southern Thailand, on the west-facing Andaman Sea coastline, suspended from the southern tip of Phang Nga province by a pair of short but substantial road bridges.

Cities in Phuket

  • Phuket Town — the administrative centre of the province with the cheapest accommodation,
  • Bang Thao — long, very quiet beach
  • Cape Panwa — home to Phuket Aquarium
  • Chalong Bay — home to Phuket's most popular yacht anchorage and the primary gateway to the islands off Phuket
  • Kamala — a quieter beach to the north of Patong
  • Karon — the second most-developed beach after Patong, split into Karon Yai and Karon Noi Beaches
  • Kata — busy, clean tourist beach with good surf, also includes Kata Noi, its quieter sister
  • Laem Sing — small bay with stunning views, between Kamala and Surin Beaches
  • Mai Khao — many posh resorts, (Thai) villages, and restaurants, very quiet and far away from it all
  • Nai Thon and Nai Yang — two quiet beaches in Sirinat National Park
  • Nai Han — somewhat quieter beach (probably the best) in the south, near Laem Phromthep view point
  • Patong — the largest and most popular beach resort known for its nightlife
  • Rawai — jumping off point for lots of local islands, popular with local residents for eating on the beach
  • Surin — an up-and-coming upmarket destination
  • Ya Nui — good snorkelling on a shallow reef that juts out from the beach

More Destinations in Phuket

  • Ko Bon — 10 minutes from Rawai, an ideal island for a day of snorkelling and relaxing
  • Ko Hae — 15 minutes by speedboat from Chalong Bay, accessible all year
  • Ko Maphrao — fishery villages, walking along nature trails, fishing and biking
  • Ko Lon — quiet, mostly Muslim island with a few bungalows
  • Ko Mai Thon — gorgeous little island with only one (expensive) place to stay
  • Ko Racha — two islands (Yai and Noi), popular with scuba divers and a relaxing snorkelling destination
  • Ko Sire — sea Gypsy colony, connected to the mainland by a causeway
  • Phra Taew National Park — Phuket's last significant virgin rain forest

Phuket Halal Explorer

Patong Beach and its condominium towers

Phuket used to derive its wealth from tin and rubber, and enjoys a rich and colourful history. The island was on one of the major trading routes between India and China, and was frequently mentioned in foreign traders' ship's logs.

Phuket's top earner now is tourism, which has transformed the island into Thailand's wealthiest province. Expect prices to be a bit higher than on the mainland.

The west coast of Phuket was hit severely by the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004, but almost no evidence of the damage remains.

Phuket enjoys great popularity as a travel destination. Most beaches are on the west coast, with Phuket Town to the southeast and the airport in the north.

How is the Climate in Phuket

Phuket is hot and humid throughout the year. The hot season is considered to be from Mar to early May. During the summer monsoon season from May-Oct, mornings and afternoons are sunny and clear, but it tends to rain in the evenings and water clarity goes down. Locals consider November - February the "cool" season, and the weather is quite tolerable. It's comparable to Florida's summer weather in temperature and intensity of rain storms: 25-33 degrees Celsius, scudding clouds, short and thunderous rainfalls in the afternoons and evenings. Surfing is feasible off the western beaches.

Culture & Tradition of Phuket

Phuket is a melange of Buddhists, Thai-Chinese, Muslims, and Moken people. The majority of the population in the rural areas is Muslim. Outside of the provincial towns and the rural folk speak with a thick Southern dialect which is difficult for even other Thais to understand. The booming tourist economy over the past decade has led to a lot of the young people leading lives not dissimilar to those in Bangkok. Altogether and the lifestyle of the urban Thai-Chinese resembles that of their Bangkok brethren.

Mosques in Phuket

For Muslim visitors to Phuket, here are some suggestions for mosques to visit in Phuket:

Masjid Al-Khair: Located in the heart of Phuket Town, Masjid Al-Khair is one of the oldest mosques on the island. It has a beautiful architecture and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect place for prayer and reflection.

Ban Bangjo Mosque: Situated in the northern part of Phuket, Ban Bangjo Mosque is known for its unique design and serene surroundings. It's a great place to visit for those looking for a quiet place to pray.

Masjid Darul Aman: Located in the Patong area, Masjid Darul Aman is a modern mosque with impressive architecture. It's conveniently located near many hotels and attractions, making it a convenient stop for visitors.

Masjid Mukaram Bangtao: Situated in the Bangtao area, Masjid Mukaram Bangtao is a peaceful mosque surrounded by lush greenery. It's a great place to visit for those looking for a tranquil place to pray.

Masjid Nurul Islam Patong: Located in the bustling Patong area, Masjid Nurul Islam Patong is a vibrant mosque with a lively atmosphere. It's a great place to visit for those looking to experience the local Muslim community.

These are just a few of the many mosques in Phuket that Muslim visitors can visit during their stay. Each mosque offers a unique experience and a chance to connect with the local Muslim community.

Travel to Phuket

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Phuket

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  • Phuket International Airport IATA Flight Code: HKT - This compact airport is Thailand's second largest hub, second only to Bangkok.

There are very frequent Flights from Bangkok and direct connecting Flights to many other airports in the region, including Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Jakarta and direct charters to Europe and Australia in the high season. Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and also Jakarta tourists usually step directly to Phuket without step on Bangkok at all, due to distance of Bangkok to Phuket is relatively same with distance of Kuala Lumpur to Phuket.

The airport is notionally divided into Terminals 1 and 2, with some charter and low-cost operators using the second, but these are only a short distance apart and connected by an air-conditioned walkway.

International flights

Other low cost direct connections include India, Macau, Seoul and Busan.

Charter flights

There are some charter flights in high season from European and Asian countries such as Sweden, Taiwan, Province of China, and Japan.

Domestic flights

Several domestic airlines fly here, including Nok Air, Air Asia, Orient (Thai). Tickets from Bangkok can cost around 1,300 Baht one-way if booked well in advance, or around 2,000-2,500 Baht (including taxes) if bought on the day.

Thai-Airways flies from Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport several times every day, and once daily from Chiang Mai (but there are no direct connecting flights in the opposite direction). Additionally and they sell tickets from/to many domestic and international destinations with stopovers in Bangkok, which are usually cheaper (especially international) than if you book separate tickets. Cheapest (non-exchangeable and non-refundable one-way tickets from Bangkok cost 2,320 Baht. Worth checking if you book just a few days before flight, as low-cost airlines may cost only 800-1300 Baht less in this situation, but you get world-famous Thai-Airways service, and free on-board meals too.

Air Asia fly from Phuket to Chiang Mai direct, twice daily at 10:35 and 19:20, affording an opportunity to combine a beach holiday with experiencing the wildlife and exotic cultures of northern Thailand. From Chiang Mai to Phuket flights depart at 13:00 and 21:45. They fly from two cities in Isaan as well, daily from Udon Thani (handy for a trip into Laos) and four times per week from Ubon Ratchathani.

Bangkok Airways has a monopoly on direct connecting flights between Phuket and U-Tapao (Pattaya/Sattahip) and Ko Samui. They also have 6 daily Flights from Bangkok. Fares are usually the same as Thai-Airways, but sometimes they have very affordable promotional fares as low as 1,390 Baht.

Thai-Airways International and Bangkok Airways fly to Suvarnabhumi (pronounced: soo-Var-na-phoom), whereas Nok Air fly from Don Muang Airport. This may be of importance when you have a connecting flight.

Airport transport

To get from the airport to your destination and there are several options:

  • A private bus service runs between the airport and Patong and the reverse. There is not yet an English-language website for this service. Times and fares are unclear. There are reportedly signs directing passengers to the curbside bus, but it is not easy to find (Oct 2013).
  • Municipal air-conditioned airport bus service (daily, 06:30-20:45, every 60-90 min) to Phuket Town bus station costs 100 Baht (Apr 2022) and takes one hour. Local buses run from there and Ranong Street Market to all the major beaches until around 18:00 for about 25-40 Baht. After getting off a bus just cross the street and wait for the continuing bus there. It is a very convenient and comfortable spot, with no agents or hustlers, plenty of shade and a minimart for drinks and Snacks. The bus will stop anywhere along its route upon signalling the driver ("bus hiking").

If you are going to take the municipal airport bus from Phuket to the airport in the afternoon (especially the 16:30 and 17:30 buses) you should allow yourself plenty of time. With dozens of schoolchildren getting on and off during weekdays and/or congested traffic the bus is frequently delayed en route.

  • Minibus services (basically door-to-door shared taxis) are a good value. They charge 100-180 Baht per seat, and will get you to your destination much faster than the municipal/government buses. To Phuket town 100 Baht is typical; to Patong 180 Baht; to Kata Beach 180 Baht. When you get off the plane, don't dally, because when the shuttle vanes fill up and they leave. If you miss the first group of them, you may have to wait until the next plane comes in, because they don't leave until they're full. The shuttle vanes will stop at a travel agent about halfway to Patong. They'll ask everyone to get out (you don't have to) and then they'll ask you where you're staying, and they'll try to sell you a hotel or overpriced tours on the guise that they are a government agency. You're not obligated to use the hotels they push. Just say you already booked a hotel, and tell them the name. (If you don't yet have a hotel, just say "Holiday Inn".) They will inform the driver, and he/she will drop you off at the hotel. This is a little annoying, but it's over in 10 minutes, and you're on your way again. Any travel agent can arrange a shuttle van ride for the way back to the airport.
  • Metered (yellow) taxis, aka "Taxi Meter" - Turn right as you exit the airport building (ignore the agents) and you'll see a stand at the end of the walkway. Tell your destination to the staff at the stand and they will give you a paper with the taxi driver number for you to keep in case you need to report a problem. Fares to destinations in Phuket cost around 600 Baht and up. The rate is what is displayed by the meter plus 100-Baht airport fee. The meter will start with a 50 Baht display. You may stumble upon a freelance taxi driver who will take you from the airport to Patong for a flat fee of 450 Baht. If the driver is pleasant, you may wish to ask for his mobile number for the return trip later. The same driver can take you from Patong to Phuket Town for 350 to 400 Baht.
  • Limousine (blue) taxis from the airport are expensive, costing 600-700 Baht to Patong or 800 Baht to Phuket Town. The airport co-op booth tucked away towards the back is a little cheaper than the competition. Despite the name, most "limousines" are Toyota Camrys with leather seats, though you may get a Mercedes. It is also likely that your limousine will stop at a travel agent in order to sell you hotel rooms and/or tours. Before you purchase your fare, insist that you do not want to stop at any travel agency along the way. (They will try to legitimise stopping at the travel agency by insisting that "the driver must sign in" or "the driver needs to stop here for directions")

Travel by train to Phuket

There are no direct train services to Phuket. But many trains leave from Bangkok central station going south all the way to Singapore. The most comfortable are the sleeper trains (~685 Baht for a berth in a 2nd class air-con car. Travellers by train must get off at Phun Phin train station in Surat Thani and continue for another 5 hours by regular bus to Phuket. Do not buy the bus ticket until you actually see the bus and can make sure it is not standing room only, as it picks up passengers at the popular Ko Samui ferry. If full, wait for the next one. See Surat Thani for more detail.

By bus

Buses to mainland destinations including Bangkok, Chumphon, Hat Yai, Krabi, Phang Nga,Ranong, Satun, Sungai Kolok and Surat Thani use the BKS terminal off Phang Nga Road in Phuket Town.

The most reliable buses from Bangkok are the public BKS buses from the Southern Bus Terminal to Phuket. The journey takes 13 hours and costs between 650-950 Baht. There are also some private bus companies, Phuket Travel Tour, Phuket Central Tour, and Phuket Travel Service. Khao San Road operations have a bad reputation for theft, often turn out to include a "surprise" transfer to a shuttle van at Surat Thani, and are best avoided. Richly Travel Center offers a bus leaving at 19:00 from near the Hualampong Train Station inside Bangkok (without having to transfer to the Southern Bus Terminal) for 900 Baht. The TAT next door offers the same for around 1,100 Baht.

From Phuket bus hub to your final destination, you can take a motorcycle taxi, tuk-tuk, meter-taxi, or bus. A motorcycle taxi into Phuket Town will be about 10-20 Baht; to most beaches 100-200 Baht (negotiable).

A local bus to one of the main beaches will cost around 15-40 Baht. It's not unusual for the tuk-tuk drivers at the bus hub to tell arriving travellers that the local bus service has finished, even though it hasn't. The bus stop is near the market in the old town. From Bus Terminal 1, make a right onto Phang Nga Rd. Continue down Phang Nga until it terminates at Yaowarat Road and then turn left. Within a few steps you will see a roundabout. Once at the roundabout, keep right. By keeping right, you will find Ranong Rd. Within 100–200 m you will find the local bus stop.

There are two bus terminals in Phuket, one small, old one in town, and one huge modern one 4 km north of town. You can take a 10 Baht pink songthaew (leaves every 30 minutes) between the two. There are also 3 regular songthaew lines within Phuket Town, and both bus stations are served by them. There is a very useful big map just outside the bus stations (look where the taxis are waiting at the old bus station, and at the very rear, not towards the entrance, at the new bus station) that displays the three songthaew routes within Phuket town. Fare's 10 Baht, last one at 19:00.

Before exiting the Phuket bus terminal, grab a free Phuket map from the information window. While supplies may always not be on hand and the map is a great way to get your bearing before jumping-off.

Rent a Car or Limousine in Phuket

Phuket is directly connected to the mainland by the Sarasin Bridge. From Bangkok, take Highway 4 through Nakhon Pathom, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, through Ranong province’s Kra Buri and Kapoe neighborhoods, Phang Nga Province’s Takua Pa and (Thai) Muang neighborhoods and onto Phuket Island. The total distance is 862 km. You may be better off getting to Phuket by public transport and renting a vehicle on the island.

By boat

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Ferry services connect from Rassada Port in Phuket Town to Ko Phi Phi and to Krabi Province on the mainland twice daily, taking 90 to 120 minutes and costing 350/650 Baht one-way/return, for each leg. It's usually a pleasant ride, but can be rather bumpy when it's windy.

From the harbour, you could avoid the shuttle vanes and take a 20 Baht songthaew to Phuket Town. If it doesn't show up at the bus stop right outside the terminal, you'll have to walk past the gate outside the harbour and along the road, turning left at the first T-junction, about 600 m and then on the primary street you can catch a affordable songthaew. There's a picture of all the routes posted just outside the terminal near the bus stop inside the complex. Last one leaves at 19:00.

There are speedboats from/to Ko Racha (45 minutes), Ko Phi Phi (1 - 1.5 hours) and the Similan Islands (about 3 hours) and other islands. Boats and yachts can be chartered all year from Phuket at Chalong Bay, Rawai Beach and the Boot Lagoon and the Yacht Haven and Royal Phuket Marina. Boats from Phi Phi and Phang Nga can be found by visiting the local beaches. A search for Phuket speedboat charters will turn up many companies providing inter-island charters and services.

Prices for transfers on board a tour speedboat are typically between 1,500 to 2,500 Baht depending on destination. Phi Phi speedboat transfers (no tour) are provided by the Zeavola Resort, which has dedicated speedboats for Phi Phi transfers. Most companies doing Phi Phi speedboat tours will not accommodate transfers that include baggage due to space limitations.

Prices for speedboat charters to/from Phuket range from 3,000 Baht to 60,000 Baht+ depending on distance/size of boat:

  • Coral Island: 3,000-5,000 Baht
  • Racha Yai Island: 8,000-15,000 Baht
  • Phi Phi Island: 15,000-25,000 Baht
  • Phang Nga: 15,000-25,000 Baht
  • Krabi: 20,000-30,000 Baht
  • Similans: 30,000-60,000 Baht+ (November - April only. Lower price from Khao Lak, higher price from Phuket)

It's feasible to visit Phuket by cruise ship. For cruises from Singapore, try Star Cruises

How to get around in Phuket

Patong MiniTaxi

Phuket is a large island and you need some form of transport to get around. Public transport is very limited and taxis and tuk-tuks are the only practical means. Another, more dangerous option is rent your own wheels. Hotels generally offer shuttle bus services into Phuket Town, and also have taxi and vehicle hire facilities.

Songthaew

This is the cheapest public transport in Phuket. Represent extra-long pickups of various forms.Within Phuket Town buses run pink, and beyond, to other beaches and areas, go blue. Almost everyone has an inscription in English about the route.

Pink - fare 25 Baht. The bus runs from 6:30 to 20:30.

The route number is indicated on the windshield on the left side

  • Route

Blue - ticket Price depends on the distance and route: 20-50 Baht. The bus runs from 7:00 to 18:00. On the windshield (or above it) is written the name of the final stop of this route

Since the bus has no actual stops, you need to "catch" it with your hand raised up. You can exit at any point of the route-you will need to press the bell button located under the ceiling.

Smart buses

Travel affordable from 90 to 250 Baht. Thanks to him, you can not only get from the airport to the beach, but also affordable to move between the main beaches of the Western part of the island. Travel between neighboring costs 50 Baht. On the first trip you need to buy a plastic ticket, which is called Phuket Rabbit card. It costs 300 Baht, of which 100 Baht is the cost of the card itself, which is not refundable, and the card account is only 200 Baht. You can travel if the card amount is not less than 170 Baht.

Tuk-tuk

The minimum fare is 200 Baht. The cost of an hour of rent will be 200 Baht minimum but better count with 350 Baht. At the same time it can accommodate up to 3 people. At night, drivers throw an additional 50% of the cost

Motorbike taxi

The fare starts from 30 Baht for 1-2 kilometers and they are almost at every corner. Drivers are dressed in bright numbered vests

Prepaid (taxi prepaid)

In any tour office both in the international and domestic terminal of Phuket airport you will be offered a taxi to the desired hotel / beach. You just pay the full amount of the trip, you are given a receipt, which indicates the number of the car, go to the Parking lot, look for a vehicle with the specified number and go to the right place.

Taxi meter (taxi meter)

If you leave the airport building on the street, you will see a counter where you can take a taxi. Rates are as follows:

  • 100 Baht airport fee
  • 50 Baht-first two kilometers
  • next 2-15 km-12 Baht per kilometers
  • next 10 km-15 Baht per kilometers

Motorbike rental

Bike rental locations are located in almost every quarter. Standard rental price - from 150 Baht (the cost of rent depends on the duration and model). When you rent you need a passport or a Deposit.

Car rental

Rent at the airport, as there is rent in the city. The longer the rental period and the lower the price per day. Standard rental price - from 900 Baht (the cost of rent depends on the duration and model).

Rent a vehicle in Phuket is available for citizens who have reached the age of 20 years.

To rent a vehicle you will need a passport and a photocopy of it, international law.

Boat rental

For those wishing to make regular boat trips, to travel from Phuket to other places and there is a great opportunity to rent a boat or yacht. Depending on the need, you can use a small boat with a outboard motor, a boat with an average capacity of five to eight people or a real pleasure yacht.

What to see in Phuket

Phuket is known the world over for its beaches. There is a wide variety of beaches, some calm, some totally ruined by millions of visitors each year. But you can explore the interior of Phuket, a fertile hilly expanse that consists of mangrove forests, fishing villages, rubber and pineapple plantations, small Muslim communities and shrimp farms.

Best things to do in Phuket

Swimming, snorkelling, diving, yachting, sailing, jet-skiing and parasailing are among the more popular activities on the island. Other activities include freediving, windsurfing, kite surfing, wakeboarding, and deep sea fishing. Popular kite surfing locations include Nai Yang in summer and Chalong Bay in winter season. Sea canoeing is a popular activity in Phang Nga Bay, as many grottoes are only accessible by canoe. Sailing Regattas include the Kings Cup in December, Pangna Bay Regatta normally in February and Phuket Raceweek in July.

Book a Diving trip in Phuket

Phuket has some decent dive sites. Most dive sites are off nearby islands, but distances are fairly short and there are dozens of dive shops and boats to cater to your needs, most based near Chalong Bay. The reefs in the area are in a healthy condition with both solid hard corals and colourful soft corals. There is also an abundance of marine life. Most of the dive locations are suitable for all levels of divers, but there are also some that are quite deep.

The most well-known dive site in the Phuket area is Ko Racha|Racha Yai with its sloping rocky reefs and its abundance of solid coral forests. It is home to Ter Bay where there is an exciting wreck in the depths of 25–35 meters. The island south of Racha Yai, Ko Racha|Racha Noi, is a haven for experienced divers as the depths are greater and the currents stronger. The overall topography is strikingly different from Racha Yai with huge granite boulders. The diving in Racha Noi compared to Racha Yai is definitely more challenging but the rewards are greater.

Just off Phuket, is the limestone island of Ko Doc Mai that soars vertically from the seabed. It is home to a diverse fish and offers the opportunity to view leopard sharks, moray eels, octopus, and turtles. Phuket can also function as a base for dives further afield, such as Ko Phi Phi. Diving in Phuket's warm clear blue waters is best from mid-October - May, when the calm seas and rain-free days make Phuket diving great.

Snuba Diving is the safest and easiest way to try diving on holiday in Phuket. The word Snuba is a portmanteau of "snorkel" and "scuba". The swimmer uses swim fins, a diving mask, weights, and diving regulator as in scuba diving. The air, however, instead of coming from tanks strapped to the diver's back, comes through a long hose from tanks on pontoon rafts on the surface. No certification required, children 8+, just like scuba diving except easier. Snuba trips go to most Phuket dive sites. No heavy equipment to wear, no long classes, maximum depth of 7 meters. Professional dive guides accompany each group.

Freediving

Phuket is a leading dive centre in Thailand and has become a freediving hotspot. It is the home of the area's only AIDA instructor training centre. Most freediving trips go out with scuba dive boats to well-trafficked dive sites, but some freediving off the beach is also feasible. The local operators are usually very happy to find like-minded divers and will happily give pointers.

Muay (Thai)

[[File:Muay (Thai) Boxer (Unsplash).jpg|1280px|Muay_Thai_Boxer_(Unsplash)]]

There are many muay (Thai) camps on the island offering instruction to visitors. There are courses available for people of different levels of fitness, and those who train hard may be given the option to fight. Chalong Bay and Rawai especially is home to almost a dozen muay (Thai) gyms. If you're interested in a one day lesson or a six month training stint, it's a good place to look.

Sailing and yachting

Phuket has become a sailing and yachting centre of Thailand and adjacent countries. It's the home of Cape Panwa Hotel Phuket Raceweek, King's Cup Regatta, Phang Nga Bay Regatta and the Phuket International Boat Show (PIMEX), four marinas, and two yacht clubs: the Ao Chalong Yacht Club (ACYC) and the Phuket Yacht Club (PYC). Well-sheltered anchorages teem with yachts. The marinas are all on the east side of the island, which makes them an ideal starting point to explore the natural wonders of Phang Nga Bay. An entire fleet of traditional junk-rigged boats is berthed there, offering day trips.

A favorable way by many travelers to experience island hopping is to do private tours. One company that offers private charter tours is Lamoet. Their boats sails to most of the places around Phuket.

Snorkelling

Snorkelling can be enjoyed in sheltered bays all around Phuket. It is particularly enjoyable at easily accessible reefs at Patong, Karon and Kata Beaches. Fins, mask, and snorkel can be rented on a daily basis from shops all over the island. Full and half day trips are available to the islands surrounding Phuket. Most popular are Ko Hae, Ko Racha|Ko Racha Yai, Ko Khai (a hidden gem in Phang Nga Bay), and Ko Phi Phi. There are many tours available at very affordable rates and speedboats will be filled with up to 65 people. Research your options before signing up for any tour.

Snorkelling trips to Racha & Phi Phi Islands

Agencies sell all-inclusive day trips from all over Phuket. Prices for group tours range from 1,400-3,900 Baht. Quality and safety seem to correlate with prices paid. The lower-end speedboat tours take roughly 30-35 passengers per 2-engine speedboat and 50-60 passengers on 3-engine speedboats. Very affordable tours take over 100 people in a speedboat. The higher-end tours take approx 15 to 18 passengers on 2-engine speedboats. Insist on knowing the exact number of guests that will be on the boat. Keep in mind that tour desks will tell you anything to get your money, as they receive up to 65% commissions from the lower-end tours. It is always best to contact the dive company directly to ensure that you are getting what you pay for.

The more people on the boat and the longer it takes to get on and off at each stop, thus lowering the amount of time you get to spend off the boat. A packed boat is not very fun or safe when there are large waves.

Private companies providing small group tours are few. Full day tour prices range from 3,200-3,900 Baht (no discounts are offered. Can only be booked direct). The tours include stops at all the major sights, higher quality lunches (from picnic to seaside sit-down restaurant meals), full sets of snorkelling gear, shuttle van transport, fresh tropical fruits, Snacks & drinks on board, foreign owner/guide, small groups, attention to safety, and national park fee. Prices vary based on services, amenities and extras are provided.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Phuket

Phuket Town is a source of cultured pearls, niello ware, pewter ware, ornaments and dried seafood. Specialist shops dealing in souvenir products can be found on Ratsada, Phang Nga, Montri, Yaowarat, and Tilok-U-Thit Road, in Phuket Town, Thepkasattri Road, north of town and at the beach centres of Patong, Kata, Karon, and Rawai.

Phuket's larger beaches are ravaged by ravenous hordes of tailors, who are certainly cheap, but will screw you over if they can. For example, suits done in 24 hours are usually just glued together and will fall apart the first time you take them to a dry cleaner. Choose your own fabrics (you can buy them on Thalang Road in Phuket Town), insist on multiple fittings and check the quality of work carefully. It makes little difference which tailor shop you choose, since they're all just sales fronts for a few central sweatshops.

There are two giant shopping malls in Phuket: Central Festival, at the northwest edge of Phuket Town, and Jungceylon, in Patong.

There is a night market that opens from Thursday - Su, a couple of traffic lights past the Central Festival shopping mall. You can buy many things from clothes to jewellery to sunglasses. A great place to visit during your stay.

A small store without a name in Latin letters can be found on Ranong street opposite the market hall and 7-Eleven West of the small roundabout. Standard commodities can be purchased there in large quantities (e.g. 12 pack of mosquito repellent, 3 pack of SPF50 sun screen, 5 pack of shower gel) for a discount.

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Phuket

Halal Food in Phuket is surprisingly cosmopolitan, especially in Patong, as many Muslims have set up shop to cater to their fellow travellers. All the usual (Thai) favourites are of course still available, with a particular emphasis on seafood. See the individual town articles for detailed listings.

Phuket has its own style of preparation and cooking. Some interesting local dishes include:

  • Fried or boiled Noodles dishes (หมี่ผัดหรือหมี่น้ำแบบต่าง ๆ), usually with Beef or Chicken, are available at many Noodles shops in Phuket Town such as Mi Ton Pho, Mi Sapam, Mi Ao Ke, Mi Hun Pa Chang.
  • Khanom Jin (ขนมจีน), a version of Noodles eaten at breakfast, usually served with a spicy Curries Sauce and fresh vegetables.
  • Nam Phrik Kung Siap (น้ำพริกกุ้งเสียบ) is a mixture of dried chili and smoked shrimp eaten with various fresh vegetables.

Cashew nuts and pineapples are grown in Phuket and available all year round. The nuts are available dried, fried, or coated. Phuket pineapples are some of the most delectable, sweet and firm available.

Buy Muslim Friendly Condos, Houses and Villas in Phuket

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eHalal Group Phuket is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Phuket. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Phuket.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Phuket ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Phuket. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Phuket, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Phuket are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly hotels in Phuket

There are lots of options available in Phuket. But for the more popular hotels and resorts in the better locations you should book at least a couple months in advance during high season (November - May). The cheapest air-con room rates start at around 1,000 Baht in beach locations or 750 Baht away from the beach, with proper resorts starting just under 3,000 Baht and up. The best rates are usually found on-line and many hotels offer best rate guarantees when you book direct. Most of the time you will pay more if you walk in and take the rack-rate.

There are 5 main areas for tourists to stay in Phuket. Patong is the most popular due to street markets and calm water beaches however this area isn’t for everyone (especially people with families). The quieter areas include Kata, Karon, Rawai and Nai Yang, all with great markets and quieter beach areas.

Hotels & Resorts in Phuket

Telecommunications in Phuket

Mail

If you want to send mail, postal offices and parcel services are widely available. In Phuket Town and there is a post office at the junction of Phang Nga Road and Montri Rd. In Patong and there is one at the appropriately named Soi Post Office, a side-street of Thavee Wong Road (near Molly Malone's).

Telephone

You can usually pick up a free (Thai) SIM card at the airport in the baggage claim area. Look around for a booth or a kiosk.

The area code for Phuket is 076. Dial the 0 if you're calling from within Thailand.

Pay phones are uncommon, as most Thais have mobile phones. Phuket has very good mobile phone coverage, albeit over slower 2G/2.5G GSM networks. Pay-as-you-go SIM cards can be purchased for a few hundred Baht, and local call charges range from 1 to 3 Baht per minutes depending on the package.

Mobile Internet is available from all providers, with True Move offering 4G access from a limited network of base stations on the east coast, including Patong, Kata, and Karon. All other networks offer EDGE and/or 4Gaccess, so don't expect fast Internet connections on your mobile device. For email and basic surfing 4Gspeeds are normally fine, but access to websites hosted outside Thailand can be slow.

Unlike many GCC countries, (Thai) networks bill mobile Internet usage by duration rather than bandwidth, with PAYG users paying around 1 Baht per minute. Most networks have PAYG monthly unlimited 4Gdeals for around 750 Baht, and you can easily purchase a SIM and the Internet package at one of the numerous phone shops around Phuket.

Stay safe as a Muslim in Phuket

Particularly in the summer monsoon season and there are strong currents on many of the beaches and drownings are a depressingly common occurrence. Heed the warning flags on popular beaches and play it safe if off the beaten track.

Tourist police can be contacted locally by dialing 1155. They have a good basic understanding of English, so if you're in trouble these people should be contacted first. (Thai) police speak hardly any English and normally take the side of the local residents even if at fault. Always insist on the Tourist Police if you have any run-in with the (Thai) Police.

Don't overstay your visa! Two offices in Phuket can extend you visa. The extension is valid for extra 30 days of the leaving date stamped in your passport. The cost is 1900 Baht. You'll need to provide a passport-sized photo. You can do it there. The Immigration Office in Phuket Town is at the end of Phuket Rd. close to the pier. There is another office in Patong.

Muslim Friendly Hospitals in Phuket

  • Bangkok Hospital Phuket - โรงพยาบาลกรุงเทพภูเก็ต
  • Phuket International Dental Center - ☎ +1 303 500 3821
  • Patong-Kathu Hospital - โรงพยาบาลป่าตอง-กะทู้ - Emergency call 076 340444.
  • Phuket International Hospital or Siriroj Hospital - ☎ +66 76 249400 +66 76 210936
  • Thalang Hospital - โรงพยาบาลถลาง - ☎ +66 76 311111, +66 76 311033
  • Vachira Phuket Hospital - โรงพยาบาลวชิระภูเก็ต -☎ 1669, +66 76 361234 +66 76 211155

Travel Next from Phuket

  • Ao Nang — 3 hours by ferry and the top beach destination in Krabi province
  • Ao Phang Nga National Park — famous for its limestone cliffs, caves, mangroves, fishing villages and James Bond Island
  • Khao Lak — family-oriented resort region for those looking for peace, quiet, and nature
  • Khao Sok National Park — one of the most beautiful wildlife reserves in Thailand
  • Ko Phi Phi — parts of The Beach were filmed at this stunningly beautiful location
  • Ko Lanta — another laid-back island destination that is gaining more popularity
  • Ko Phayam — one of Thailand's most beautiful small islands, 20 min by boat from Ranong
  • Ko Yao — one of the last islands in the region that is not over-developed
  • Similan Islands — national park consisting of nine small islands, hugely popular among divers due to its underwater scenery

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