Sam Pai Kong Shrine, often called Bangku Shrine, stands on Thepkasattri Road in Koh Kaew, a few minutes east of the British International School. They believe Chinese tin mine workers built the first modest hall more than 100 years ago, using zinc sheets for the roof and walls, before local donors replaced it with today’s white-and-red concrete building. They set wooden figures of Sam Pai Kong and other Taoist guardians inside, making the hall the spiritual centre of Bangku village.
During the nine-day Vegetarian Festival, the compound bursts into colour and sound. They raise lantern poles, burn long strings of firecrackers, perform a dramatic fire walking rite, cross the spiritual bridge, and lead a dawn street procession that leaves before sunrise. Outside those busy days travellers usually find the iron doors locked, so they can only peer through the fence at the quiet courtyard. This limited access keeps the interior safe and ready for its demanding festival role.
Even from the road, visitors still feel its deep link to Phuket’s mining era and Chinese heritage. Simple signposts in Thai and English point the way, and roadside parking is easy enough. Morning light paints the roof tiles a gentle gold.
Sam Pai Kong Shrine Info
Location: Koh Kaew Address: Koh Kaew 8 alley, Thepkasattri Road, Koh Kaew Sub-district, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket Hours: 8 am – 5 pm (but currently closed to the public)
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Willy Thuan
Willy Thuan is the founder of Phuket 101. After travelling through 40+ countries and working with Club Med and Expedia, he settled in Phuket in 1994. He shares real travel insights and original photography from across Thailand.View Author posts
