Sometimes referred to as 'Pearl of the South', or 'Pearl of the Andaman,' Phuket has all for a perfect as well as memorable vacation, boasting of glorious beaches, sparkling waters with diverse marine life, breathtaking natural beauty, magnificent coves and bays, dazzling waterfalls, lush forested areas, salubrious tropical climate, and Sino-Portuguese architecture. Phuket holds the distinction of being the only island in the country with the provincial status.

Sprawling over an area of about 540 square kilometers, Phuket is the largest island in the country. From ancient shrines and interesting museums and historical monuments to parks and gardens, Phuket presents a diverse range of attractions. Some of the not to miss attractions in the destination are:

Wat Chalong - This is a beautiful Buddhist temple situated on the outskirts of Phuket town. It enshrines statues of several prominent Buddhist saints such as Luang Por Cham, who in turn played a pivotal role in putting down the Angyee, otherwise known as the Chinese Coolie Rebellion.

Thalang National Museum - Exhibited here are arts and artifacts that throw light on the cultural as well as historical past of the town.

Phuket Sea Shell Museum - On display here are a valuable collection of sea shells that have been collected from different parts of the world. The museum is also attached with a section that sells seashell items.

Orchid Farm and Thai Village - This is a must visit destination for the lovers of traditional Thai culture. Everything from classical Thai performances and Thai boxing to sword fighting and elephant shows can be spectacled here. Alongside the village is a beautiful orchid garden, which is worth visiting.

Laem Phromthep or Phromthep Cape - This is a great place to enjoy the picturesque views of the sunset. A large number of tiny elephant statues can also be seen here.

Phuket Aquarium - The most prominent marine biological research station in the country, the aquarium is home to hundreds of fish species, both freshwater and saltwater.

Phuket Butterfly Aquarium - Among the specialties seen here is a large number of tropical species of butterflies and insects.

The Zoo - Situated south of Phuket town, the Zoo contains a large number of African and Asian animals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Included in the specialties are about 5000 crocodiles, more than 50 species of birds, and about 100 species of butterflies. Elephant, monkey, and crocodile shows are also conducted.

Khao Rang - Located on the southern part of the island, this is a hill in Phuket. Climb atop this hill to have a great view of Phuket town.

Phuket Fantasea - For those looking for a unique experience, then take a tour to Phuket Fantasea, where you can see cultural traditions blended with the latest in Las Vegas style technologies. Some of the highlights of Phuket Fantasea are magic elephants vanishing into the air, musical fountains, and gymnastics.

A tour to Phuket would not be complete without having a look at its incredible antique buildings, many of which are a fine example of beautiful Sino-Portuguese architecture. Must visit attractions in Phuket also consist of Wat Phranang Sang, which is the oldest temple in Phuket; Wat Phra Thong, whose centerpiece is an ancient Buddha image.

The Two Heroines Monument, which is dedicated to two heroic sisters who led the army in order to defeat the Burmese invaders in the Battle of Thalang in 1785; The Khao Phra Thaeo Wildlife Sanctuary, in Thalang District; and Sirinat National Park - the first marine park in the area. Further, people touring the place can indulge in an array of activities such as golf, cruising Phang Nga Bay by sea plane, taking traditional Thai cooking classes, and go-kart racing.

Despite any other attractions, perhaps the greatest of all attractions in Phuket are its beaches. Just few to mention are Karon Beach, Kata Beach, Bang Tao Beach, Kamala Beach, Laem Beach, Mai Kao Beach, Nai Yang Beach, Surin Beach, Rawai Beach, Patong Beach, and Pansea Beach. Majority of these beaches serve as a perfect base for enjoying a continuum of activities such as sailing, paragliding, parasailing, diving, cruising, and much more.

In short, There are also certain travelers, particularly westerners, who prefer to stay here for a long period, inspired by its incredible beauty as well as options. Apart from hotels and resorts, Phuket comes with such options as serviced apartments and villas, for those who interested in long stays.