Culture of Phuket. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Phuket is the biggest island of Thailand known for a number of natural and historical sites. The Thepkasattri district locates a village of sea gipsy being one of the most visited places on the island after scenic beach areas. The village is the best destination for tourists wishing to get to know local residents’ culture and traditions. The village holds different concerts for tourists and offers various ethnic cuisine restaurants and souvenir shops to visit. Travelers will enjoy a rich entertaining program including Thai boxing and incredible elephant shows.

The National Museum Talang is the best way to continue the learning of local folks traditions and customs. Its showcases present household items used by local folks a great collection of weapon and archeological finds and treasures. A big part of the exhibition is devoted to the Burmese war. The monument “Two heroines” locted opposite to the museum commemorates this historical event. According to one of the theories the revolt against aggressors was leaded by two local women.

The island locates several religious landmarks as well. A lot of interesting legends are known about the Wat Phra Thong temple. The main decoration of the temple is a gold Buddha statue which was by one of the legends discovered by a young local shepherd. The boy used to rest at the place and tie his bull to the peg. Later on the locals found out that the peg was a part of the statue and the temple was built around the sacred finding. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Another marvelous temple is located near the Chalong beach. Its officers are rather cordial and hospitable being always ready to tell the guests about local way of life. The most famous nature attraction of the Phuket island is the Khao Phra Taew national park. The park features scenic tropical forests of incredible beauty, fantastic waterfalls and a variety of exotic plants and animals. The park hosts a remarkable museum and the gibbons center engaged in nursing parentless gibbon babies. A tour to the national park will be of great pleasure and interest for tourists being a perfect spot for a family visit.