Patong Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Patong, Phuket with this comprehensive travel guide featuring cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, best things to do, accommodations, local food, and more.


Introduction to Patong

Patong is a beautiful coastal town in the southern part of Phuket, Thailand. It is situated on the west coast of Phuket, facing the Andaman Sea. Patong is known for its stunning beaches, exciting nightlife, and a wide range of adventure activities. With its rich culture and tradition, Patong offers tourists an opportunity to experience the local customs and traditions of Thailand.

List of Places to Visit in Patong

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Patong is home to several museums and historical places that offer visitors a unique glimpse into the town’s fascinating past. These include the following:

  • The Phuket Mining Museum: This museum, located in Kathu, tells the story of Phuket’s tin mining industry and how it shaped the island’s economy. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the town.

  • Thalang National Museum: This is another must-visit museum in Patong. It showcases the historical and cultural heritage of Phuket and the Andaman region. The museum exhibits prehistoric artifacts, ancient coins, and other art pieces that symbolize the region’s rich history.

  • The Big Buddha: The Big Buddha is a grand statue that sits on a hilltop overlooking Patong. It is a symbol of Thailand’s Buddhist heritage and can be accessed via a steep climb or a funicular ride. The statue stands at a height of 45 meters, making it one of the tallest Buddha statues in Asia.

Natural Attractions of Patong: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Patong offers visitors a wide range of outdoor adventures and scenic views. Whether you want to hike, bike, climb, or swim, Patong has something for everyone. Here are some of the natural attractions and outdoor adventures you can enjoy in Patong:

  • Patong Beach: This is one of the most stunning beaches in Thailand, and it attracts tourists from all over the world. The sandy beach stretches for over 2 kilometers, and it is surrounded by clear blue waters that are perfect for swimming and other water activities.

  • Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay: If you’re looking for an adventure, then kayaking in Phang Nga Bay should be on your list. This is an excellent opportunity to explore the beautiful mangrove forests, limestone cliffs, and hidden coves of the bay.

  • Elephant Trekking: This is a must-do activity in Patong. You can take a ride on an elephant and explore the lush green forests and hills of Patong. It’s a great way to experience the local flora and fauna.

  • Karon Viewpoint: This viewpoint is a great place to admire the stunning vistas of the Andaman Sea. It is located on a hilltop and offers a panoramic view of the sea and the surrounding beaches.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Patong

Patong has several beautiful hiking and biking trails that offer visitors a chance to explore the town’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Bike Tour through Phuket Old Town: This route takes you through the historic heart of Phuket. You can explore the Sino-Portuguese architecture, quaint shops, and bustling markets on this tour.

  • Jungle Trek to the Bang Pae Waterfall: This trek offers visitors a chance to explore the lush tropical forests of Phuket. The trail takes you through the jungle to the beautiful Bang Pae waterfall, where you can cool off and take a dip in the refreshing waters.

  • Hike to the Big Buddha: This hike takes you up to the majestic Big Buddha statue. It is a strenuous climb, but the views from the top are worth the effort.

Best Things to Do in Patong: Activities and Tours

Patong offers visitors a variety of activities and tours that are sure to keep them entertained. Here are some of the best things to do in Patong:

  • Thai Cooking Class: This is a great opportunity to learn about Thai cuisine and cooking techniques. You can take a cooking class and learn how to make some of the most popular Thai dishes.

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Patong has some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the region. You can explore the vibrant underwater world and see a variety of marine life.

  • Night Market Shopping: The night markets in Patong offer a variety of goods, ranging from clothes, souvenirs, food, and drinks. This is a great place to go shopping and soak up some local culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Patong

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation on Patong Beach Day 2: Explore Phuket Old Town and Museums Day 3: Kayaking in Phang Nga Bay and Elephant Trekking Day 4: Jungle Trek to the Bang Pae Waterfall Day 5: Snorkeling and Diving Day 6: Shopping at the Night Markets Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Patong

Must-Try Dishes

Patong offers visitors a wide variety of cuisines, ranging from local Thai food to international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Patong:

  • Tom Yum Goong: This is a delicious spicy and sour soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chili peppers.

  • Pad Thai: This is a classic Thai dish that consists of stir-fried noodles, bean sprouts, and peanuts.

  • Green Curry: This is a spicy curry made with coconut milk, green chili peppers, and Thai herbs. It’s usually served with rice.

Local Beverages

  • Thai Iced Tea: This is a sweet and creamy iced tea made with condensed milk and Thai tea.

  • Singha Beer: This is a popular Thai beer that is known for its smooth and refreshing taste.

Where to Stay in Patong: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Patong offers visitors a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses and hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Patong:

  • Burasari Phuket Resort & Spa: This is a luxury resort located directly on Patong Beach. It offers guests a range of amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and several restaurants.

  • 99 Guesthouse: This is a budget-friendly guesthouse located in the heart of Patong. It offers guests clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Patong: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Patong is home to several markets and shops that offer a range of souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best places to shop in Patong:

  • Phuket Weekend Market: This is a massive market that sells a range of goods, including clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and street food.

  • Jungceylon Shopping Mall: This mall offers visitors a wide variety of stores, ranging from luxury brands to local shops that sell souvenirs and handicrafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Patong

The local culture of Patong is deeply rooted in Thai traditions and customs. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the local customs and follow these cultural practices:

  • Dress Appropriately for Temples: When visiting temples, visitors are expected to dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees.

  • Remove Shoes Before Entering Houses and Temples: In Thailand, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a house or temple.

Best Time to Visit Patong

The best time to visit Patong is between November and February, when the weather is mild and dry. This is the peak tourist season, so it’s recommended to book accommodation and tours in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Patong

Do:

  • Be Respectful of Local Customs and Traditions: Thailand has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions.

  • Wear Sunscreen: Patong is known for its sunny weather, so it’s important to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Don’t:

  • Engage in Illegal Activities: Thailand has strict laws regarding drugs, and engaging in illegal activities can result in severe penalties.

  • Disrespect the Royal Family: It is considered a crime in Thailand to disrespect the Royal Family.

Safety and Health

Safety in Patong

Patong is a relatively safe town, but visitors are advised to take precautions like avoiding isolated areas at night and securing their valuables.

Health in Patong

It is recommended that visitors to Patong get vaccinated for Hepatitis A and B and typhoid before their trip. It’s also important to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and malaria.

Getting to Patong: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Patong

Phuket International Airport is the main airport in the region that services both international and domestic flights. It is located approximately 40 kilometers from Patong and offers a range of transportation options to get to the town.

Bus Stations Near Patong

Phuket Bus Terminal 2 is the main bus station in the region that services buses to and from Bangkok and other destinations in Thailand.

Other Options

Visitors to Patong can also take a ferry from nearby islands or hire a taxi or private car to get to their destination.

How to Get Around in Patong

The easiest way to get around Patong is by using a tuk-tuk or hiring a taxi. Visitors can also rent a scooter or bicycle to explore the town on their own.

Where to Go Next from Patong: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Patong is situated in a beautiful region that offers visitors a range of nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some of the best places to visit:

  • Phi Phi Islands: These stunning islands are located about an hour away from Patong. Visitors can take a ferry to the islands and explore the beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

  • Phuket Old Town: This historic district is located about 10 kilometers away from Patong. Visitors can explore the Sino-Portuguese architecture and the charming cafes and shops.

Conclusion

Patong is a beautiful town that offers visitors a unique mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. With its stunning beaches, natural attractions, and rich local culture, Patong is the perfect place to visit for anyone looking for an authentic Thai experience.

The south end of Patong Beach The south end of Patong Beach Bangla Rd by day Bangla Rd by day