Big Buddha i Phuket

What was once devastated by a tsunami, Thailand's most popular island bounced back by building the largest Buddha statue in the whole of the country, a testament to the Buddhist's never-ending faith.

After plenty of wrangling and red-tape, building commenced just a few months after the tsunami, allowing the island to focus on the future instead of the past. Being built atop a wonderfully chosen plot, overlooking the bays of Chalong, Kata, Karon and indeed most of the southern half of Phuket, the Big Buddha placement could not have been better. The serenity and calmness which is present at the footholds of the statue is fulfilling enough, even without the incredible views.

The monument has only ever been funded by donations from the public, Thai nationals from other provinces and overseas offerings, so therefore its expected completion date for King Bhumibol Adulyadej's 80th birthday in 2006 was a little premature. Un-phased, work has carried on ever since and is drawing to a conclusion.

The trip up to the Big Buddha offers a wonderful insight into the quaint Thai villages before reaching the top of the summit. It's the peacefulness that hits you the hardest. The only sounds you hear are the national flags flapping in the breeze and birds singing. Occasionally, firecrackers are thrown into a large cement chimney to warn off evil spirits, and that just shows the wonderful spontaneity of Thai Buddhism.

As plans for the Big Buddha were drawn up over a decade ago, some 80million Baht (USD$2.4million) has been pumped into the building work. Being 150ft high and having a base spanning 80ft, the colossal cross-legged statue is no shrinking violet. The glinting Burmese marble tiles have been painstakingly fitted and show just how much passion, dedication and workmanship has gone into the creation. To some devotees of the Buddhist religion, having Buddha gazing down across the land gives them a protection and acts as a reminder of their faith every day.

For tourists, the enormous statue gives a fantastic look at just how amazing the Buddhist culture is. The sensational ride up the ribbon of roads of Nakkerd Hills adds to the intrigue. Whether the statue is finished or not, it is definitely a worthwhile place to visit. The unique views of southern Phuket are mind-blowing and it is no wonder why there are around 1,000 visitors every single day.

If you feel you want to contribute to helping the building work, donations can be made and in return you can scrawl your name or a message into a marble tile or brick. What better feeling than having your personal mark on such an iconic landmark which in future generations to come will still be as awe-inspiring as it is today.

Phuket may be chocked full of buzzing nightlife and fantastic beaches, but it also has an amazing history and mix of cultures. Buddhism is revered and respected the world over. Even if you have no previous knowledge of the religion, seeing the Big Buddha Phuket from touching distance is almost life-changing.