[Photo by Valerie Ng/China Daily]

2. Temples and shrines

There are at least six temples or shrines to visit in Phuket. Big Buddha is the island’s most revered Buddha statue located on top of Nakkerd Hills between Chalong and Kata. To reach the statue, you will have to travel up a winding country road bordered by terraced banana groves. Near the base is a one-ton bronze bell and a temple area. On the way up, you will also be awarded with breathtaking views of the Chalong harbor, Kata Bay and Karon Beach. Behind the big statue sits a smaller brass Buddha, but still impressive, at 12 meters high.

Phra Thong temple is the island’s oldest temple and located in northern Phuket. It is famous for a half-buried golden Buddha statue. There are a few other golden Buddha statues in the temple and devotees are often seen sticking golden colored tiny paper onto the statues. They believe the action will bring prosperity to them and their family.

3. Heritage tour

You could also head down to Phuket old town roundabout where you can visit a Chinese temple, a mosque and a Catholic church within about 200 meters of each other. It is also in Phuket old town that you will get to savor the rich heritage of the Chinese, Peranakan and Portuguese architecture. Here you can find quaint cafes, quirky shops, art galleries, fashion boutiques and more.

4. Sunrise and sunset

You can relish in the most beautiful sunrise and sunset by the beach if your hotel has a beach front. Or, head down to Phromthep Cape, the southern-most tip of Phuket, which is said to be the best spot for the island’s most breathtaking free show of nature in the evenings. During the day, you can enjoy the postcard-perfect scenery of the surrounding ocean and islands, including the Phi Phi Islands, Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi.

5. Pamper yourself crazy

Do not leave Phuket without going to a spa for a head-to-toe treatment. Try the massage, scrub, pedicure and manicure, facial treatment, the whole works – even for men!