Phuket

Phuket
source
Name	Phuket
Native name	ภูเก็ต
Settlement type	Province
Coordinates	7, 53, 24, N...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Thailand
Seat type	Capital
Seat	Phuket Town
Leader title	Governor
Leader name	Narong Woonciew
Area total km2	576
Population total	418,785
Population as of	2023
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	ICT
Utc offset	+7
Blank name sec1	Human Development Index
Blank info sec1	0.920 (very high)
Website	www.phuket.go.th

Phuket. It is the largest island in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea off the country's southwestern coast. The province, which includes the main island and several smaller ones like Ko Yao, is a major global tourist destination renowned for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxury resorts. Governed from the historic Phuket Town, it is connected to the mainland by the Sarasin Bridge.

Geography

The island's topography is predominantly mountainous, with the Phuket Range running north to south, culminating at Khao Phra Thaeo. Its western coast features numerous bays and sandy beaches such as Patong Beach, Karon Beach, and Kata Beach, while the eastern coast is more marshy with significant mangrove forests. The surrounding waters are part of the Andaman Sea, with notable smaller islands including the Similan Islands and Phi Phi Islands accessible for diving. The climate is governed by the Southwest monsoon and Northeast monsoon, creating a distinct tropical wet and dry season.

History

Historically known as Junk Ceylon on European charts, the island was a waypoint on the trade route between India and China. Its modern name is derived from the Malay word *Bukit*, meaning hill. The region's wealth was built on tin mining, attracting Hokkien Chinese immigrants whose influence remains strong. In the late 18th century, Francis Light of the British East India Company briefly occupied the island. A pivotal event was the Thalang crisis of 1785, where local heroines Chan and Mook defended against Burmese invasion. It was formally incorporated as a monthon during the administrative reforms of King Chulalongkorn.

Demographics

The population is ethnically diverse, with a significant proportion being Sino-Thai descendants of the Hokkien tin miners and merchants. Other communities include Malay Muslims, Sea Gypsies (Moken), and a growing number of expatriates from Europe, Russia, and China. The main languages are Central Thai and the Southern Thai dialect, with Hokkien, Malay, and English also spoken. Major religious sites include the Put Jaw Chinese temple in Phuket Town and several mosques in communities like Ban Lipon.

Economy

Once dependent on tin and rubber plantations, the economy is now overwhelmingly driven by tourism and related services. Significant investment comes from international hospitality groups like Marriott International and Accor. Other sectors include real estate development, construction, and a growing medical tourism industry centered on facilities like Bangkok Hospital Phuket. The Phuket Deep Sea Port supports fishing and logistics, while the Phuket International Airport is a major regional hub served by airlines like Thai Airways and AirAsia.

Tourism

As one of Thailand's premier destinations, it attracts millions of visitors annually to its resorts, nightlife, and natural attractions. Key areas include the bustling Bangla Road in Patong, the luxury villas of Kamala Beach, and the upscale Mai Khao area near the airport. Major annual events draw crowds, such as the Phuket Gay Pride festival, the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, and the Vegetarian Festival. Popular day-trip destinations include the James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay and the diving sites around the Racha Islands.

Culture

The local culture is a unique blend of Sino-Portuguese influences, evident in the architectural style of Phuket Town's Old Phuket Town district. The most famous cultural event is the annual Phuket Vegetarian Festival, known for its firewalking and street processions by devotees from Chinese shrines like Jui Tui Shrine. Performing arts include Manora dance and Nang Talung shadow puppet theatre. The local cuisine features dishes like Mee Hokkien and Moo Hong.

Administration

The province is a special governed entity, not part of any larger region, and is divided into three districts (*amphoe*): Mueang, Kathu, and Thalang. These are subdivided into 17 subdistricts (*tambon*) and 103 villages (*muban*). The provincial government is led by a Governor appointed by the Ministry of Interior. Key infrastructure is managed by entities like the Airports of Thailand and the Marine Department.

Category:Provinces of Thailand Category:Islands of Thailand Category:Tourism in Thailand