Wat Chaithararam (Wat Chalong)

History & Significance

Wat Chaithararam, originally and locally known as Wat Chalong, holds a deep place in the history of Phuket. During the reign of King Rama V, the temple was led by Phra Khru Wisutthi Wongsacharn Yanamuni, widely known as Luang Pho Chaem. He was highly respected for his expertise in traditional herbal medicine, bone-setting, and treating various illnesses. Luang Pho Chaem played a heroic role during the Chinese Coolie Rebellion (Ang Yi), providing refuge to local villagers and distributing sacred white cloths (Pha Prachiat) to boost their morale, which ultimately helped them secure victory. In recognition of his virtue and leadership, King Rama V bestowed upon him a prestigious royal title. Along with Luang Pho Chaem, other revered monks like Luang Pho Chuang and Luang Pho Kluam also served the community with their medical knowledge, leaving a lasting legacy of faith that remains strong today.

Highlights & What to See

The most prominent structure within the temple grounds is the Phra Mahathat Chedi Phra Chom Thai Barami Prakat. This grand pagoda houses the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha, which are over 2,200 years old and originally kept in a stupa in Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. In 1999, senior Sri Lankan monks presented these relics to the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, who later gifted them to be permanently enshrined at Wat Chalong in 2000. Inside the pagoda, visitors can admire beautiful mural paintings depicting the life of Buddha, from his birth and enlightenment to his parinirvana.

Additionally, the temple features a large traditional Thai-style wooden building (Kuti) that houses lifelike wax models of Luang Pho Chaem, Luang Pho Chuang, and Luang Pho Kluam. Other notable statues on the grounds include a giant figure named Nontri and a statue of an old man holding a betel nut crusher known as Ta Khi Lek, both of which are highly respected by local worshippers.

Visitor Information

Wat Chaithararam is open daily from 07:00 to 17:00. Admission is free, though donations for temple maintenance are welcome. Visitors are expected to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, and to remove their shoes before entering the religious buildings. For those wishing to worship the Holy Relics, the traditional mantra is: 'Ahang Wantami Thurato, Ahang Wantami Thatuyo, Ahang Wantami Sapphaso'.

How to Get There

The temple is located in Mueang Phuket District, approximately 8 kilometers from Phuket town center. Visitors traveling from the Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon Monument can take Chaloem Phra Kiat Road towards Rawai Beach. Wat Chalong is located on the left side of the road before reaching the Chalong Intersection. Ample parking space is available on-site for visitors traveling by car or motorbike.