Wat Chalong
Thailand is not only known for its exotic foods and heavenly massage therapies. It is also known for having the most captivating and well-crafted temples in the world including the Wat Chalong located in Phuket. Wat Chalong is one of the main tourist spots here in Phuket, Thailand and your trip can never be complete if you weren’t able to set foot in this Buddhist temple.
There are no specific dates as to when the Wat Chalong was established. However, many Thais believe that the temple was built when King Rama II was still a king (1809 – 1842). And every time people talk about the Chalong Temple, it is usually associated with the revered monks such as Luang Pho Chaem and Luang Pho Chuang. They were the two abbots of Wat Chalong known for their herbal medicines. These two highly respected monks also mediated in the rebellion that happened during 1876.
You can see the statue of these two monks at the Wat Chalong Temple. You would not miss it since these are the statues located at the temple’s main hall where Buddhist Thais usually go to pay respect and ask for blessing and guidance. Gold leaves were stick to their images to show respect for these highly revered abbots in Phuket.
There are at least 29 Buddhist monasteries in Phuket. However, Wat Chalong is considered as the most beautiful, the biggest, and the most important of all. Those who wish to enter the great temple do not have to pay a standard admission fee. However, you will be required to pay a small amount or donation for the maintenance as well as restoration of the temple. Moreover, it is also a must that you remove your shoes or slippers before you enter the temple. The monks roaming around the temple should not be touched, especially if you are a woman to maintain their purity.