What to see at Wat Chalong (Chaithararam Temple)

Travellers visit Thailand for many reasons, including adventure, relaxation and, most importantly, for a cultural deep dive into the spiritual and religious side of things. Wat Chalong, also known as the Chaitharam Temple, is an excellent destination in Thailand, ideal for a spiritual awakening. Located amidst thick jungles and greenery, this iconic temple serves as a religious gathering point and is the pinnacle of Thai architecture. As one of Phuket’s most significant buddhist temples, Wat Chalong holds historical and spiritual significance for locals and visitors. Established during the early 19th century, it became particularly revered due to its association with two respected monks, Luang Por Chaem and Luang Por Chuang, who were known for their healing powers and compassion toward local communities in the 1800s.

Key Attractions at Wat Chalong

Wat Chalong offers a variety of fascinating structures and sacred spaces, each with its own unique appeal.

The Grand Pagoda: Phra Mahathat Chedi

Extending to nearly 60 metres, the Grand Pagoda towers over the complex in all its glory. The structure is said to house a bone relic of the Buddha and draws countless pilgrims seeking blessings and paying homage to it. Mural paintings adorn the pagoda and depict scenes from the Buddha's life. The pagoda’s three levels guide visitors through an array of Buddha statues, ornate decorations, and murals that narrate the various stages of Buddha’s life.

The Statues of Luang Por Chaem and Luang Por Chuang

The main temple houses the statues of Luang Por Chaem and Luang Por Chuang, based on the likeness of the two monks who are said to have aided Phuket residents in the rebellion in the 1800s and had healing abilities. Locals still come to these statues to offer flowers, incense, and small donations in hopes of blessings for health and prosperity. Devotees also apply gold leaf as a sign of respect and homage to the statues. 

Mural Paintings and Traditional Sculptures

The temple hosts several carefully painted murals and sculptures that all add to the Thai Buddhist story and the legends that follow it. These intricate works of art offer a glimpse into many Jataka tales, which all depict scenes from the previous lives of the Buddha. Among the various sculptures are those of revered monks, mythological creatures, and deities that seamlessly coexist with the surrounding architecture. One can easily visit these works of art, especially if your accommodation is in close proximity. Choosing one of the many suites in Phuket will enable you to see without any hassle.

The Firecracker House

The Firecracker House is one of the most unique and lively aspects of the Wat Chalong temple. Visitors are serenaded by the sounds of firecrackers on the temple grounds, which are usually set off by locals as a form of thankfulness and gratitude to the deities as their prayers are answered. The Firecracker House holds ceremonial significance as firecrackers are believed to ward off evil spirits. This cultural element adds a lively dimension to Wat Chalong’s atmosphere, distinguishing it from other temples in Thailand. Visitors usually celebrate someone's victory with the sound of crackers, and most head back to their accommodations in the city, such as the NH Boat Lagoon Phuket Resort and many others in the area.

The Sermon Hall (Ubosot)

The Sermon Hall, also known locally as the Ubosot serves primarily as an area for ceremonious occasions and prayer. The red and gold interior of the hall, as well as its intricate ornamentation, is in place because of the great respect that this hall commands. The Ubosot is an essential part of Wat Chalong’s spiritual atmosphere because this is where monks conduct regular chants and blessing ceremonies, and visitors are welcomed and are allowed to join or sit quietly to experience the calming energy of the space.