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<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nJust off Phuket\u2019s east coast, this sheltered bay is perfect for a luxury yacht charter or a sea kayaking trip. Glide past towering limestone karsts, visit the Panyee floating village, or paddle through caves to find hidden lagoons of ethereal beauty. In the middle of Phang Nga Bay is James Bond Island, whose steep rocky pinnacle jutting out of the emerald water has become the iconic image of Phuket and the Andaman region. A busy spot at times but a breathtaking sight nonetheless. <\/p>\n
2. Big Buddha
\n<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/magazine-proxy.elitehavens.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Big-bhudda-edit.jpg\")
Big Buddha, Credit@fashionmagazine.com<\/a><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Travel to Phuket\u2019s southeastern interior to find two of the island\u2019s most sacred sites. Wat Chalong is a 200-year-old Buddhist temple of golden-spired marble pagodas with red-tiled roofs. At the heart of the temple is the 61-metre Phramahathat Chedi. Explore this glimmering, three-storey stupa that houses a sacred bone fragment believed to belong to Lord Buddha. Climb to the top and enjoy views of the surrounding hills and the Big Buddha, an imposing 45-metre statue in pure white marble. The views extend across much of the island\u2019s south and to the sea beyond. Entry is free for both Wat Chalong and the Big Buddha but donations are welcome. And make sure you dress modestly when visiting these religious sites.<\/p>\n
3. Elephant Sanctuary<\/strong><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/magazine-proxy.elitehavens.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/Elephant-phuket-edit-1-1.jpg\")
<\/p>\nElephants<\/a> are highly revered in Thai culture. Sadly, their diminishing habitats across Southeast Asia and popular use as tourist attractions have led to their abuse and exploitation. Phuket Elephant<\/a> S<\/a>anctuary<\/a>, opened in late 2016, offers an alternative to visitors who want to see these majestic giants without contributing to their mistreatment. Adjacent to Khao Phra Theao National Park, the sanctuary is open for half-day visits to observe the elephants in their natural environment. Advance booking is required and the Elite Concierge can take care of this for you.<\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/magazine-proxy.elitehavens.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/please-credit-GRP-Gibbon-Rehabilitation-Project-1024x680-edit.jpg\")
<\/p>\nFor another ethical animal encounter, visit the Gibbon Rehabilitation Project<\/a> nearby, which offers the chance to see rescued gibbons and learn more about the plight of primates in Thailand.<\/p>\n
4. Old Town<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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