Thai Temple – Karon Beach
Wat Suwan Kirikhet is a small but beautiful temple in the back of Karon Beach. You’ll find it by driving inland from the Karon Circle. This temple frequently hosts the popular Karon Temple Market and occasional funfairs, which are always fun to visit.
Wat Suwannakiri Khet, located in Karon Beach, is a temple of the Mahanikaya sect that has been part of the local community since 1909. Originally known as Wat Karon, it was named after the nearby village. On October 24, 1939, the temple received its royal charter, marking its official boundaries at 40 meters wide and 60 meters long.
The temple has also been an educational centre, teaching Buddhist scriptures since 1980 and opening a preschool in 1983. Key structures include the ordination hall, which is adorned with carvings of the Buddha’s life and the Ten Jataka tales on its doors and windows. It measures 40 by 60 meters. The Sala Karn Parian, built in 1972, is 16 meters wide and 25 meters long. There are also four monks’ residences featuring a mix of concrete and wood construction.
Religious highlights include 3 Buddha images in the chapel, 17 more in the Sala Karn Parian, along with a Chiang Saen Buddha, a Sukhothai Buddha, and a striking bull-riding Narayana image housed in the large Kuti. Every year, between February and March, the temple hosts the lively Narayana Gilding Festival, a grand celebration not to be missed.
Wat Suwan Kirikhet Info
Location: Karon Beach
Address: 98/8 Moo 4 Patak Soi 22, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100
Price: free
Dress Code: No short skirts or short pants, no sleeveless T-shirts
Wat Suwan Kirikhet Map