Nestled on the verdant slopes of Khao Rang (Rang Hill) in Phuket, Wat Khao Rang, also known as Sumnak Song Khao Rang or Wat Khao Rang Samakkhitham, stands as a revered temple steeped in spiritual significance. A prominent attraction on the island, this temple houses a magnificent golden sitting Buddha, a pioneering masterpiece that marked Phuket’s first colossal Buddha image. Frequented by both locals and tourists, Wat Khao Rang exudes a serene ambiance, attracting visitors seeking solace and cultural immersion.

A visit to Wat Khao Rang often forms part of travelers’ itineraries in the Phuket and Andaman region, complementing excursions to Khao Rang Viewpoint and the array of scenic restaurants dotting Khao Rang’s landscape.

The centerpiece of Wat Khao Rang is undoubtedly its resplendent golden sitting Buddha, a revered icon for worshippers across the island. Beyond its visual grandeur, this sacred image holds profound spiritual significance, serving as a focal point for devotees paying homage and seeking blessings. Amidst the tranquil surroundings, generations of families partake in the ritual of ‘making merit’, offering fresh food and alms to monks, a customary practice observed particularly in the mornings before 11 am.

Wandering the temple grounds reveals a tapestry of Thai artistry, from intricate carvings adorning temple doors and roofs to captivating statues depicting figures from Thai mythology, including Yommaraj, the Lord of Death, and revered monks of bygone eras. Notably, Wat Khao Rang’s distinction is attributed not only to its religious relics but also to its revered founder, Luang Pu Supha, affectionately known as ‘The Living Monk’.

Luang Pu Supha’s legacy transcends generations, spanning a century of unwavering devotion to Buddhism and altruistic endeavors. Renowned for his humility and philanthropy, Luang Pu Supha’s pilgrimage took him far and wide, traversing jungles and distant lands, including neighboring countries and even Europe. His benevolent works, ranging from building bridges for impoverished villages to establishing hospitals for monks, left an indelible mark on society, embodying the essence of compassion and selflessness.

Wat Khao Rang stands as a testament to Luang Pu Supha’s enduring legacy, a revered sanctuary where visitors can pay homage to this revered monk and bask in the tranquility of spiritual reflection. Accessible from Phuket Town via Soi Vachira road, Wat Khao Rang invites travelers on a journey of cultural discovery and spiritual enlightenment amidst the lush landscapes of Phuket.