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Viewpoints & Others
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 Khao
Rang
A great view of Phuket Town, the southern part of the island, and some
of the offshore islands, can be obtained by going to the top of Khao
Rang Hill, on the city's northwest. There are also several restaurants
featuring spectacular views of the city, a health park for exercise
enthusiasts, and a comfortable, expanse of grass for picnickers at the
top with a bronze statue of Phraya Ratsada Nupradit the model Governor
of Phuket during King Rama V's reign. |
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Viewpoint
From this point can be seen the bays of Kata Noi, Kata and Karon, and
also Poo Island. It is one of the island's best views. A large public
sala, or shelter is there for visitors, and several vendors sell food,
drinks, and souvenirs in the area when the weather is nice. The
viewpoint is between Kata and Nai Han Beach. |
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Antique
Buildings
The beginning of the tin boom during the Nineteenth Century led to
construction of many fine old mansions and shops still well preserved.
The architectural style, typical of the region, is described as
Sino-Portuguese and has a strongly Mediterranean chracter. Shops present
a very narrow face on the street but stretch back a long way. Many,
especially on Dibuk Rd., have old wooden doors with Chinese fretwork
carving. Other streets, forming what might be called "Old Phuket", with
similar structures are Phang-nga, Yaowarat, Thalang, and Krabi, and a
walking tour of the area is easy and delightful. Some other old
European-style buildings of note are the Provincial Hall (Sala Klang),
the Phuket Courthouse (San Changwat), and Nakhon Luang Thai Bank. |
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Thai
Village and Orchid Farm
A show of Thai dance, handicrafts, culture, elephants and a
demonstration of old time tin-mining takes place among the orchids.
Located in Sam Kong, about 3 kms. from downtown Phuket. The morning
showing starts at 11:00 a.m. the evening showing at 5:30 p.m. Tel. (076)
214860, 237400 |
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Saphan
Hin
A land reclamation project provided
 abundant
new land now used for parks and public facilities at Sapan Hin, located
where Phuket Rd., meets the sea in Phuket Town. In the circle is the Tin
Mining Monument, shaped like a large drill bit, dedicated to the memory
of Captain Edward Thomas Miles, the Australian who brought the first tin
dredge to Phuket in 1909. The monument was built in 1969 on the occasion
of the 60th anniversary of tin dredging in Phuket. The Sport Center is
located in the park. |
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Chalong
Bay 
Phuket's principal boat anchorage and the island's largest bay. Ao
Chalong has a long flat, shallow, muddy bottom; at ebbtide, waters
recede as much as one kilometer. It is very picturesque but not for
swimming. Most visitors to the islands south of Phuket depart from
Chalong pier, and the bay's restaurants are well known for their
seafood. Charters to various places can be arranged from there, and it
is the center of the island's yachting businesses. To get there take Jao
Fah Tawan Tok Rd., or Jao Fah Tawan Okk Rd., to Chalong Circle. The pier
and a number of restaurants are located on the short road leading to the
beach from the circle.
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Sehn
Bay
A small bay with many rocks and corals. Snorkeling and diving are
possible. For sunbathers, this secluded, curving strand north of Nai Han
offers some privacy. A small open air restaurant supplies food and
drink. To get there go through the parking lot of the Phuket Yacht Club
hotel and follow the road to Ao Sehn, about 1/2 km. |
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Phrom
Thep Cape
 Phrom"
is Thai for Hindu "Brahma" signifying purity, and "Thep" means 'God'.
Phromthep is a headland stretching into the sea and forming the extreme
south-end of Phuket. It has been prominent feature for mariners since of
early seafarers from the sub-continent, remains of whose journey's have
been found all along the Malay-peninsula's west coast.
From Rawai Beach turn right and go for 2 kms. The cape has tall cliffs
on the south, and was formerly called by local villagers "Leam Jao" (The
Gods' Cape). From the cliffs running down to the boulders at the sea is
a line of palm trees. Emerald green currents swirl in the deep water and
breakers hurl themselves in vain against the rocky point : it is one of
Phuket 's most inspiring vistas. From Promthep Cape, which is the most
beautiful place to catch Phuket's famous sunset, a road leads northwest
to Nai Han Beach. |
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Ka
cape
Ka cape is a popular stop for Thai visitors to the island. Located at
the extreme southwest of Chalong Bay. South of the point is Leam Ka
Beach, a sandy strip dotted with rocks and boulders. The extensive coral
reefs offshore make for interesting snorkeling mornings. Bungalows, Thai
food, and boat charters to the islands are available. Ka Cape is 7 kms.
west of Chalong Circle.
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