Wat Kathu
A serene, green temple complex in Phuket featuring a sacred tree adorned with Buddha statues and a picturesque white boat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday closures
Wat Kathu
Best Time
Avoid midday closures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, green temple complex in Phuket featuring a sacred tree adorned with Buddha statues and a picturesque white boat.
"Beautiful place with fresh air, but check opening hours as it can be closed unexpectedly."
Check Opening Hours First
Temple hours can be inconsistent. Plan your visit for earlier in the day to increase chances of entry. :clock1:
Amulet Shopping Alert
Avoid buying amulets at the temple; you can find similar ones much cheaper at Tesco Lotus Jewelry. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sacred Bodhi Tree
Temple Center
A large, sacred tree with numerous Buddha statues and figures, offering a shaded, tranquil spot.
Elegant White Stone Boat
Near the main boat structure
A small, striking white stone boat with a contrasting blue roof, set against vibrant greenery.
Lush Greenery and Fresh Air
Temple grounds
Enjoy the picturesque surroundings with abundant trees and a refreshing, pleasant atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Wat Kathu
Beyond the Temple Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours First
Temple hours can be inconsistent. Plan your visit for earlier in the day to increase chances of entry. :clock1:
Amulet Shopping Alert
Avoid buying amulets at the temple; you can find similar ones much cheaper at Tesco Lotus Jewelry. :moneybag:
Explore the Grounds
Even if closed, the serene grounds and scenery are worth a peaceful walk. :walking:
Use the PHUKETON App
Find full information, videos, and navigation for Wat Kathu and other Phuket spots. :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours First
Temple hours can be inconsistent. Plan your visit for earlier in the day to increase chances of entry. :clock1:
Amulet Shopping Alert
Avoid buying amulets at the temple; you can find similar ones much cheaper at Tesco Lotus Jewelry. :moneybag:
Explore the Grounds
Even if closed, the serene grounds and scenery are worth a peaceful walk. :walking:
Use the PHUKETON App
Find full information, videos, and navigation for Wat Kathu and other Phuket spots. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wat Kathu is appreciated for its picturesque, green setting and the serene atmosphere provided by its sacred tree and Buddha statues. Visitors enjoy the fresh air and the unique white stone boat. However, the temple's unpredictable opening hours and lack of clear signage can lead to disappointment, and advice suggests avoiding overpriced amulet purchases.
"A very interesting and beautiful complex is located in the area of the island with the same name. A picturesque place with many trees and very green - which is why the air here is very fresh and pleasant.
In the center of the temple complex there is a large, sacred tree, the branches of which cover a large number of interesting figures and statues of Buddha - in this place you can relax in the shade from the sun.
There are many interesting buildings here, inherent in Buddhist culture. Near the large, familiar boat, there is another one - small and very elegant. It is made of white stone and has a blue roof - it looks very beautiful and contrasting, against the background of the greenery surrounding it.
Full information with video and convenient navigation - in the application 👉 PHUKETON"
Igor Dvorov (PhuketON)
"Simple temple not much to see, for me worth it only if you close to this place."
hit the trip
"Beautiful place. But NEVER buy an (plastic) amulet!! Instead go to Tesco Lotus Jewelry and buy the same amulet much cheaper!👌🏽."
J V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wat Kathu is located in the Kathu district of Phuket. Many visitors find it convenient to use a taxi or a rented scooter to reach the temple. If you're staying in popular tourist areas like Patong or Karon, it's a relatively short ride. Consider using navigation apps or the PHUKETON app for directions.
Public transport options directly to Wat Kathu might be limited. It's generally recommended to arrange private transport like a taxi or a songthaew (shared taxi) if you're not renting a vehicle.
The temple grounds are walkable. For exploring the wider Kathu area, a scooter or car rental offers the most flexibility. The PHUKETON app can also provide navigation assistance within the temple complex.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no entrance fee to visit Wat Kathu, making it an accessible cultural experience. However, donations are always appreciated to help maintain the temple.
The operating hours for Wat Kathu can be inconsistent, with some visitors reporting it being closed even during midday. There's often no clear signage indicating opening times. It's advisable to visit earlier in the day.
Information on holiday hours is scarce. Given the reported inconsistency, it's best to assume standard hours might not apply and try to visit on a regular weekday if possible.
No advance booking is required for Wat Kathu as it's a public temple. Entry is usually on a walk-in basis, though checking for any unexpected closures is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The sacred tree with its Buddha statues, the elegant white stone boat with the blue roof, and the lush green surroundings offer great photo opportunities. Capture the contrast between the architecture and nature.
Photography is generally allowed within the temple grounds, but always be respectful of any sacred areas or ongoing religious activities. Avoid intrusive photography of monks or worshippers.
Early morning light can be soft and beautiful for capturing the temple's details and the surrounding greenery. Midday sun can be harsh, but the shade under the sacred tree offers a good alternative.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs
While there might be small stalls, a key tip from visitors is to avoid buying amulets at the temple. You can find similar items much cheaper at local markets or larger stores like Tesco Lotus Jewelry.
Information on specific local crafts is limited. The primary advice revolves around avoiding overpriced temple souvenirs and seeking better deals elsewhere for items like amulets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, families should be aware of the potential for the temple to be closed unexpectedly. It's best to manage expectations and perhaps combine a visit with other nearby activities in the Kathu area. The advice about avoiding amulet purchases is also relevant for families looking to be budget-conscious.
💰 Budget Travelers
The most crucial tip for budget-conscious visitors is to avoid purchasing amulets at the temple, as they are significantly cheaper elsewhere. Utilizing the PHUKETON app for navigation can also save on potential guide fees or costly mistakes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Wat Kathu's Atmosphere
While the temple complex houses many buildings inherent in Buddhist culture, some visitors perceive it as a simple temple with not much to see beyond its natural beauty and core structures. The presence of a small, elegant white stone boat with a blue roof is noted as a visually appealing element, offering a beautiful contrast against the surrounding greenery.
Despite its serene setting, the experience can be impacted by its unpredictable operating hours. Several reviews mention finding the temple closed even during midday, with a lack of signage to indicate opening times. This inconsistency means visitors might enjoy the grounds from the outside if the temple itself is inaccessible.
Navigating Temple Etiquette and Practicalities
A significant practical tip from visitors concerns the purchase of amulets. It's strongly advised never to buy plastic amulets directly from the temple, as they can be found at a much lower price at places like Tesco Lotus Jewelry. This advice highlights a common tourist trap and offers a savvy way to save money.
For those looking to enhance their visit, the PHUKETON app is recommended. It provides full information, videos, and convenient navigation for Wat Kathu and other attractions in Phuket, making it a valuable tool for planning and exploring the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit