The Big Buddha Phuket, also known as Phra Phutta Ming Mongkol Eknakiri, is a stunning landmark that graces the Nakkerd Hill overlooking Chalong Bay. It’s a popular tourist destination not just for its grandeur but also for the panoramic views it offers. But how old is this behemoth statue?
Construction of the Big Buddha Phuket began in 2004, though there seems to be some discrepancy depending on the source. Some resources state that the main statue itself was completed by 2008 [German Wikipedia], while the official website of the Big Buddha Phuket says the entire project, including the base, was finished in 2018 [phuket-big-buddha.com].
Regardless of the exact year, we can safely say the Big Buddha Phuket is a relatively young monument, especially compared to Thailand’s rich historical sites.
Here’s a quick recap:
- Construction began: 2004 (possibly earlier)
- Main statue completion (estimated): 2008
- Entire project completion: 2018
So, the next time you visit the Big Buddha Phuket, you can appreciate not only its beauty but also its recent history as a landmark.
