Big Buddha Phuket reopened on 3 March 2026 and is currently open daily from 9am to 6pm. The 45-metre white marble statue stands on Nakkerd Hill between Kata and Chalong, with broad views across southern Phuket.
Big Buddha Phuket Is Open Again
Big Buddha Phuket reopened to the public on 3 March 2026 after being closed following the landslide on Nakkerd Hill in August 2024. The site now operates as Wat Kittisangharam (Big Buddha) under the management of Wat Kittisangharam, also known as Wat Kata.
The reopening covers an authorised 15-rai area and is subject to 25 operating and environmental conditions set by the Forestry Department. The statue, main staircase, temple area and viewing terraces are accessible.
A Landmark Above Southern Phuket
The seated Buddha image rises 45 metres above its base and is faced with white marble. It stands on Nakkerd Hill between Kata and Chalong, where it can be seen from several parts of southern Phuket.
The upper terraces look across Chalong Bay, the hills of southern Phuket and sections of the west coast. Smaller Buddha images, shrines and worship areas surround the main statue. Although the views attract many visitors, this remains an active Buddhist site rather than only a viewpoint.
Opening Hours and Admission
- Current status: Open
- Opening hours: Daily, 9am–6pm
- Last entry: 5.30pm
- Admission: Free; donations are optional
- Location: Soi Yot Sane 1, off Chaofa West Road, Chalong
Access arrangements have changed several times since 2024. Visitors making a special journey should check the same-day status before travelling, particularly during periods of heavy rain.
Getting There
The road to the site begins from Chaofa West Road in Chalong and climbs Nakkerd Hill. It is paved but steep and narrow in places. Most visitors arrive by car, taxi or motorbike, and parking is available near the upper entrance.
The terraces are exposed to the sun, so the middle of the day can be hot. Morning visits are generally cooler, while the light is softer later in the afternoon. The site closes at 6pm, so visitors should not rely on older guides that recommend arriving for a later sunset.
Dress and Behaviour
Shoulders and knees should be covered, and beachwear is not appropriate. Shoes must be removed before entering indoor worship areas. Quiet behaviour is expected around monks, worshippers and religious ceremonies.
Visitors should follow all signs, barriers and staff instructions. Some parts of the wider hill remain outside the area authorised for public use.
The 2024 Closure and 2026 Reopening
The site closed after the landslide of 23 August 2024, which killed 13 people and damaged homes below the hill. It briefly reopened during the 2025–26 New Year period before closing again on 4 January 2026.
Regular public access resumed on 3 March 2026 under the new temple-led management structure. Legal proceedings and questions concerning the landslide and compensation remain separate from the current operation of the site.