Phuket is Thailand's largest island and most visited province, set in the warm Andaman Sea off the west coast of the Thai-Malay Peninsula. Renowned for its powdery white-sand beaches, crystalline turquoise waters, vibrant nightlife, and rich Sino-Portuguese cultural heritage, Phuket draws millions of visitors each year. From the buzzing strip of Patong Beach to the serene shores of Nai Harn, the colonial shophouses of Phuket Old Town to the towering white marble Big Buddha statue, the island offers something for every traveller.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Ton Sai Waterfall Trail
A well-defined trail through Phuket's last remaining virgin rainforest leading to the Ton Sai Waterfall — a multi-tiered cascade with swimming pools at its base. The trail passes through thick jungle with banyan trees, ferns, and resident gibbons and macaques. The waterfall is most impressive during and shortly after the rainy season (July–November).
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2
Bang Pae Waterfall Trail
A short trail from the Bang Pae entrance of Khao Phra Thaeo NP leading to Bang Pae Waterfall, the largest waterfall on Phuket. The falls drop approximately 10 metres into a pool popular for swimming. The trail passes through dense jungle with abundant birdlife.
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3
Nakkerd Hills – Big Buddha Trail
A hiking trail up Nakkerd Hill to the Big Buddha plateau, departing from the Chalong side. The trail passes through secondary forest with scenic views opening up as you climb. The summit offers panoramic views of Chalong Bay, Kata, and Karon. The trail can be combined with a visit to the Big Buddha shrine at the top.
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4
Khao Rang Hill Walk
A network of wide, paved walking paths through the forested Khao Rang Hill in Phuket Town. The paths wind through shaded parkland to a summit viewpoint offering 360-degree views of Phuket City, the east coast, and distant hills. Exercise equipment is installed along the path, and early mornings see dozens of local joggers and walkers.
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5
Promthep Cape Coastal Walk
A short walk exploring Phuket's southernmost headland, following rocky coastal paths between the main Promthep Cape viewpoint and the secondary Windmill Viewpoint 500m to the north. The walk passes coastal cliffs, sea views in multiple directions, elephant shrines, and the cape lighthouse.
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6
Laem Phromthep Ridge Trail
A less-travelled coastal ridge walk along the hills between Nai Harn Beach and Promthep Cape, offering alternating views of the west coast ocean and the bay. The trail passes through scrubby coastal vegetation and provides some of the best uninterrupted sea views on the island.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.