View source for Phuket province

{{Short description|Province of Thailand}}
{{Redirect|Phuket}}
{{Multiple issues|
{{How-to|date=June 2022}}
{{Travel guide|date=August 2025}}
{{AI-generated|date=February 2026|reason=[https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Phuket_province&diff=1188850491&oldid=1188454682 these 2023 edits]; note [[WP:AISIGNS]] in superficial analyses, editorializing disclaimer (consistent w/ 2023 LLM text), vocab distribution characteristic of early LLMs, verbose edit summary etc}}
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{{Infobox settlement
| name               = Phuket
| native_name        = ภูเก็ต
| native_name_lang   = th
| nicknames           = Junk Ceylon<br />Thalang
| mottoes              = ไข่มุกอันดามัน สวรรค์เมืองใต้ หาดทรายสีทอง สองวีรสตรี บารมีหลวงพ่อแช่ม <br /> ("Pearl of the Andaman. Heavenly City of the South. Golden beaches. Two heroines. Virtue of Luang Pho Chaem.")
| image_flag         = Flag of Phuket.svg
| image_seal         = Seal Phuket (blue).png
| image_map          = Thailand Phuket locator map.svg
| mapsize            = frameless
| map_alt            =
| map_caption        = Map of Thailand highlighting Phuket province
| coordinates        = {{Coord|7|53|24|N|98|23|54|E|type:adm1st_region:TH-83|display=title,inline}}
| coordinates_footnotes =
| subdivision_type   = Country
| subdivision_name   = [[Thailand]]
| seat_type          = Capital
| seat               = [[Phuket (city)]]
| leader_party       =
| leader_title       = Governor
| leader_name        =  Sophon Suwannarat
| leader_party1      =
| leader_title1      = PAO President
| leader_name1       =
| area_footnotes          = <ref name="AREA">{{cite web |url=https://www.forest.go.th |title=Table 2 Forest area Separate province year 2019 |publisher=Royal Forest Department |access-date=6 April 2021}}</ref>
| area_total_km2          = 547
| area_rank               = [[Provinces of Thailand|76th]]
| elevation_footnotes     =
| elevation_m             =
| population_footnotes    = <ref name="DOPA2024">{{cite web |url=https://stat.bora.dopa.go.th/stat/statnew/statMenu/newStat/home.php |publisher=Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) |title=Official statistics registration systems |access-date=10 February 2025}}</ref>
| population_total        = {{increase}} 432,464<ref name="DOPA2025">{{cite web | title=ระบบสารสนเทศเพื่อการบริหาร สำนักบริหารการทะเบียน กรมการปกครอง | date=31 December 2025 | url=https://stat.bora.dopa.go.th/StatMIS/#/ReportStat/2 }}</ref>
| population_as_of        = 2025
| population_rank         = [[Provinces of Thailand|61st]]
| population_density_km2  = 786
| population_density_rank = [[Provinces of Thailand|5th]]
| population_demonym      =
| population_note         =
| demographics_type2 = GDP
| demographics2_footnotes = <ref name="NESDB-2017">{{cite journal|title=''Gross Regional and Provincial Product, 2019 Edition''|journal=Gross Regional and Provincial Product|date=July 2019|url=https://www.nesdc.go.th/ewt_dl_link.php?nid=5628&filename=gross_regional|access-date=22 January 2020|publisher=Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC)|language=en|issn=1686-0799|archive-date=25 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231125111311/https://www.nesdc.go.th/ewt_dl_link.php?nid=5628&filename=gross_regional|url-status=dead}}</ref>
| demographics2_title1 = Total
| demographics2_info1 = [[baht]] 209 billion<br />([[US$]]7.5 billion) (2019)
| demographics_type1 = Human Achievement Index
| demographics1_footnotes = <ref name="HAI 2565">{{cite web |url=https://www.nesdc.go.th/main.php?filename=Social_HAI |department=Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) |title=ข้อมูลสถิติดัชนีความก้าวหน้าของคน ปี 2565 (PDF) |language=thai |trans-title=Human Achievement Index Databook year 2022 |format=PDF |page=55 |access-date=12 March 2024 |archive-date=15 July 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250715002518/https://www.nesdc.go.th/main.php?filename=Social_HAI |url-status=dead }}</ref>
| demographics1_title1 = HAI (2022)
| demographics1_info1 = 0.6399&nbsp;"average"<br />[[#Human achievement index 2022|Ranked 41st]]
| timezone1          = [[Time in Thailand|ICT]]
| utc_offset1        = +7
| postal_code_type   = [[List of postal codes in Thailand|Postal code]]
| postal_code        = 83xxx
| area_code_type     = [[Telephone numbers in Thailand|Calling code]]
| area_code          = 076
| iso_code           = [[ISO 3166-2:TH|TH-83]]
| website            = {{URL|phuket.go.th}}
| footnotes          =
| official_name      =
| translit_lang1_info3 = {{lang|zh-hant|普吉}}<br />''Phóo-kiat'' {{font|size=70%|([[Hokkien#Phonology|Tâi-lô]])}}
| translit_lang1_type3 = [[Hokkien]]
| translit_lang1_info1 = {{lang|th|ภูเก็ต}} {{font|size=70%|({{IPA|th|pʰûː.két̚|pron}})}}
| translit_lang1_type1 = [[Southern Thai language|Southern Thai]]
| translit_lang1_info2 = {{lang|ms|Bukit}} {{font|size=70%|([[Malay alphabet|Rumi]])}}<br />{{lang|ms-arab|{{Script|Arab|بوکيت}}}} {{font|size=70%|([[Jawi alphabet|Jawi]])}}
| translit_lang1_type2 = [[Malay language|Malay]]
| translit_lang1     = Other
| settlement_type    = [[Provinces of Thailand|Province]]
| image_skyline      = Phuket Aerial.jpg
| image_alt          =
| image_caption      = Phuket viewpoint
}}
{{Infobox settlement
| name                    = Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization
| native_name             = องค์การบริหารส่วนจังหวัดภูเก็ต
| native_name_lang        = th
| settlement_type         = [[Provincial Administrative Organization]]
| government_type         = [[Administrative divisions of Thailand#Local administrative divisions|Local administrative divisions]]
| governing_body          = Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization
| leader_title            = President
| leader_name             = Rewat Areerob
| website                 = {{URL|phuketpao.go.th}}
}}

'''Phuket''' ({{IPAc-en|ˌ|p|uː|ˈ|k|ɛ|t}} {{respell|poo|KET}}; {{langx|th|ภูเก็ต}}, {{IPA|th|pʰūː.kèt||Th-Phuket.ogg|pron}}, {{langx|ms|Bukit}} or ''Tongkah'') is one of the [[Southern Thailand|southern]] [[Provinces of Thailand|provinces (''changwat'') of Thailand]]. It consists of the island of Phuket, [[List of islands of Thailand|the country's largest island]], and another 32 smaller islands off its coast.<ref name=TAT /> Phuket lies off the west coast of mainland [[Thailand]] in the [[Andaman Sea]]. Phuket Island is connected by the [[Sarasin Bridge]] to [[Phang Nga province]] to the north. The next nearest province is [[Krabi province|Krabi]], to the east across Phang Nga Bay.

Phuket province, encompassing an area of {{cvt|547|km2}}, ranks as the second-smallest province in Thailand.<ref name="AREA"/>  Historically, Phuket Island was situated on a major trading route between India and China. This strategic location led to its frequent mention of foreign ships in the [[logbook|logs]], including those from Portugal, France, the Netherlands, and England. Despite this attention from various European powers, Phuket was never colonized by any European nation.

Economically, the province's wealth was initially derived from [[tin]] and [[rubber]] production. Recently, Phuket has transitioned to [[Tourism in Thailand|tourism]] as its primary source of income. More than 100,000 foreigners are estimated to have settled in Phuket.<ref name="BBC Kelly">{{cite news |last1=Ng |first1=Kelly |title=Thailand revokes visa of Swiss man who allegedly assaulted local woman |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-68498257 |work=BBC News |date=7 March 2024}}</ref>

==Toponymy==
The name ''Phuket'' (of which the digraph ''ph'' represents an [[Aspiration (phonetics)|aspirated]] {{IPA|/[[Voiceless bilabial plosive|pʰ]]/}}) is derived from the corruption of the word ''Bukit'' ([[Jawi alphabet|Jawi]]: {{lang|ms-arab|{{Script|Arab|بوکيت}}}}) in [[Malay language|Malay]] which means 'hill', as this is what the island appears like from a distance. With its geographical location in the [[Malay Peninsula]], Phuket was historically inhabited by the [[Austronesian peoples|Austronesian]] Malays, before it was settled by the [[Thai people|Thai]] due to southward expansions of [[Siam]]ese kingdoms, most recently the [[Rattanakosin Kingdom]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Phuket History - General Info |url=https://www.phuket.net/visit-phuket/about/info/history/ |website=Phuket.Net |access-date=21 November 2024 |date=2 September 2011}}</ref>

Phuket was formerly known as '''Thalang''' ({{lang|th|ถลาง}} ''Tha-Laang''), which is also derived from the old Malay ''Telong'' ([[Jawi alphabet|Jawi]]: {{lang|ms-arab|{{Script|Arab|تلوڠ}}}}) which means 'cape'. The northern district of the province, which was the location of the old capital, still uses this name. In Western sources and navigation charts, it was known as '''Junk Ceylon''' (a corruption of the Malay {{lang|ms|Tanjung Salang}}; [[Jawi alphabet|Jawi]]: {{lang|ms-arab|{{Script|Arab|تنجوڠ سالڠ}}}} 'Cape Salang').<ref name=Smithies>Smithies, Michael (2002), Three military accounts of the 1688 "Revolution" in Siam, Itineria Asiatica, Orchid Press, Bangkok, {{ISBN|974-524-005-2}}</ref>{{RP|179}}

==History==
{{main|History of Phuket}}
[[File:Audience with Narai, 1685-10-18 (b).jpg|thumb|left|upright|French ambassador [[Chevalier de Chaumont]] with King [[Narai]]]]

===16th–18th century: European contact===
[[Fernão Mendes Pinto]], a [[Portuguese people|Portuguese]] explorer, arrived in [[Thailand|Siam]] in 1545. His travel accounts provide insights into various parts of the country, including a detailed description of ports in the southern part of the [[Ayutthaya Kingdom|Kingdom]]. Pinto's records are among the earliest European accounts to mention Phuket, which he referred to as ''Junk Ceylon'' a name used by the Portuguese in their maps. This designation appears seven times in his writings. According to Pinto, Junk Ceylon was a significant port of call for [[trading vessel]]s, where they often stopped for supplies and provisions.

However, Pinto noted that during the mid-16th century, the island's prominence was in decline. This downturn was attributed to the presence of pirates and the challenging sea conditions, which made the area less favorable for merchant vessels. In addition to Phuket, Pinto's accounts also include references to other important port cities of the time, such as Patani and Ligor, the latter being the present-day Nakhon Si Thammarat.<ref name="คำว่าถลาง">{{cite web|url=http://phuketcity.info/default.asp?content=contentdetail&id=14143|title=คำว่าถลาง}}</ref>

During the 17th century, Junk Ceylon (now known as Phuket) was a focal point of international trade, particularly for its tin resources. The [[Netherlands|Dutch]] and [[Kingdom of England|English]], and later the [[Kingdom of France (Early Modern)|French]] after the 1680s, competed for trading opportunities on the island. In September 1680, the [[Louis XIV's East India Company|French East India Company]]'s ship arrived at the island and departed with a cargo full of [[tin]].<ref name="คำว่าถลาง"/>

[[File:Дом семьи Чинпрача.jpg|thumb|left|Stately [[Sino-Portuguese architecture|Sino-Portuguese]] mansion in Phuket Town]]

To diminish Dutch and English influence in the region, the Siamese King [[Narai]] appointed a French medical missionary, Brother [[René Charbonneau]] of the [[Paris Foreign Missions Society|Société des Missions Étrangères]], as the governor of Junk Ceylon. Charbonneau held this position until 1685.<ref>{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MznDrpiYBcwC&q=Rene+Charbonneau+Phuket&pg=PA294|title=New Terrains in Southeast Asian History|first1=Abu Talib|last1=Ahmad|first2=Liok Ee|last2=Tan|date=2 May 2018|publisher=Ohio University Press|access-date=2 May 2018|via=Google Books|isbn=9780896802285}}</ref>

King Narai, in 1685, granted the French a tin monopoly in Phuket, formalized through an agreement with the French ambassador, the [[Chevalier de Chaumont]].<ref name=Smithies />{{RP|179}} Subsequently, Sieur de Billy, previously the [[maître d'hôtel]] for Chaumont, was appointed as the governor of the island.<ref name=Smithies />{{RP|50}} However, following the [[Siamese Revolution (1688)|Siamese revolution]] in 1688, the French presence in Siam was significantly reduced. On 10 April 1689, [[General Desfarges|Desfarges]] led a military expedition to recapture Thalang in an attempt to re-establish French control in the region.<ref>''A History of South-east Asia'' p. 350, by Daniel George Edward Hall (1964) St. Martin's Press</ref> This occupation was short-lived, with Desfarges returning to [[Puducherry (union territory)|Puducherry]] in January 1690.<ref name=Smithies />{{RP|185}}

====1785: Burmese invasion====
Before the [[Burmese–Siamese War (1785–86)#Southern theatre|Burmese assault on Thalang in 1785]], during what is known as the "Nine Armies' Wars", [[Francis Light]], a captain with the [[British East India Company]], alerted the authorities in Phuket of the impending Burmese attack.<ref>{{cite journal|first=E.H.S.|last=Simmonds|title=Francis Light and The Ladies of Thalang|journal=Journal of the Malaysian Branch of the Royal Asiatic Society|publisher=Cambridge University Press for SOAS, University of London|volume=38|issue=2 (208)|pages=592–619|date=December 1965|issn=0126-7353|jstor=611568}}</ref> Light's warning came at a time when the island's military governor had recently died, leading the Burmese to believe that Phuket could be easily conquered. However, [[Than Phu Ying]] [[Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon|Chan]], the widow of the deceased governor, along with her sister Mook (คุณมุก), devised a strategic defense. They instructed the women of the island to dress as soldiers and position themselves along the walls of Thalang City. This ruse led the Burmese to overestimate the strength of the island's defenses, prompting them to abort their attack and eventually retreat after a month-long siege, which ended on 13 March 1785. In recognition of their bravery and ingenuity, [[Rama I|King Rama I]] bestowed the titles [[Chan and Mook|Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Si Sunthon]] upon the two sisters, celebrating them as heroines of Phuket.<ref name=TAT>{{cite web|title=Phuket|url=http://www.tourismthailand.org/Where-to-Go/Phuket|website=Amazing Thailand|publisher=Tourism Authority of Thailand|access-date=2015-01-03|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130705172143/http://www.tourismthailand.org/Where-to-Go/Phuket|archive-date=2013-07-05}}</ref>

The official [[Seal (emblem)|seal]] of Phuket features a depiction of the Two Heroines Monument, located along Highway 402 in [[Phuket City|Phuket]], in honor of the sisters.<ref>ตราประจำจังหวัด. Retrieved 22 Oct 2013 from http://www.phuket.go.th {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131119131212/http://www.phuket.go.th/ |date=2013-11-19 }}</ref> Encircled by a traditional Thai [[kranok pattern]],<ref>กุศล เอี่ยมอรุณ, จตุพร มีสกุล. Phuket. Bangkok: Sarakadee Press.</ref> This seal has been in use since 1985.

===19th–20th centuries===
During the reign of [[Chulalongkorn|King Chulalongkorn]], also known as Rama V, from 1 October 1868 to 23 October 1910, Phuket was designated as the administrative center for the tin-producing southern provinces of Siam (now Thailand). King Chulalongkorn's tenure is noted for the modernization of the nation, encompassing governmental and social reforms, as well as negotiations involving territorial concessions to the British and French. Amid the pressures of Western expansionism during this period, King Chulalongkorn's leadership is credited with maintaining Siam's sovereignty and averting colonization.{{citation needed|date=November 2022}}

In 1876, there was a significant uprising among Chinese laborers working in the tin mines of Phuket and its neighboring provinces. The unrest was reportedly influenced by the declining prices of tin and the government's stringent fiscal policies at the time.{{citation needed|date=November 2022}}

Phuket underwent another administrative change in 1933 when ''[[Monthon]] Phuket'' (มณฑลภูเก็ต) was dissolved, leading to Phuket's establishment as a separate province.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.finearts.go.th/trangarchives/หนังสืออิเล็กทรอนิกส์/book/28-121/2-2013-01-26-21-11-08.html|title=จดหมายเหตุรายวันจดรายงานราชการของข้าหลวงเทศาภิบาลมณฑลภูเก็ต ร.ศ. 121}}{{Dead link|date=February 2026 |bot=InternetArchiveBot }}</ref>

===21st century (2001–present)===
On [[Boxing Day|26 December]] 2004, Phuket, along with other areas on Thailand's west coast, experienced significant devastation due to a [[tsunami]] triggered by an [[2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami|earthquake]] off the coast of [[Sumatra]], [[Indonesia]]. This natural disaster had far-reaching impacts, resulting in approximately 5,300 fatalities in Thailand and causing extensive damage and loss of life across South and [[Southeast Asia]], totaling around two hundred thousand deaths.<ref name="Puavilai-2005">{{cite web |last1=Puavilai |first1=Wilai |title=Tsunami disaster in Thailand, ICU experience |url=https://www.who.int/hac/events/tsunamiconf/presentations/2_5_mass_casualty_hospital_care_paovilai_ppt.pdf |website=World Health Organisation (WHO)|publisher=WHO Tsunami & Health Situation Report 31|access-date=9 September 2018 |date=2005-01-29}}</ref> In Phuket, around 250 individuals, including foreign tourists, were reported deceased. Major beaches on Phuket's west coast, including Kamala, [[Patong]], Karon, and Kata, suffered substantial damage, as did some resorts and communities along the island's southern shores. Notably, the [[Takua Pa District]] in [[Phang Nga province]], north of Phuket, was among Thailand's most severely affected areas, with significant casualties, including a considerable number of Burmese laborers.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chankaew |first1=Prapan |last2=Sagolj |first2=Damir |title=Hundreds Of Victims Of The 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami Have Still Not Been Identified |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/r-exclusive-thai-police-see-little-hope-of-putting-names-to-about-370-tsunami-victims-2014-12 |access-date=9 September 2018 |work=Business Insider |agency=Reuters |date=2014-12-23}}</ref><ref name="Irrawaddy-2005">{{cite news |last1=Tang |first1=Alisa |title=Forgotten Burmese Victims of Tsunami Rebuild Thai Resorts |url=http://www2.irrawaddy.com/article.php?art_id=4744&page=1 |access-date=9 September 2018 |work=The Irrawaddy |agency=AP |date=2005-06-27}}</ref> In response to the tsunami disaster, Thailand initiated the installation of a series of tsunami-detection buoys in December 2006. These buoys, part of a regional warning system in the [[Indian Ocean]], are located approximately {{convert|1,000|km|mi|abbr=on}} offshore, positioned between [[Thailand]] and [[Sri Lanka]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2006/s2749.htm|title=NOAA Provides First Tsunami Detection Buoy for the Indian Ocean|publisher=NOAA|access-date=2012-06-17|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130306095317/http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2006/s2749.htm|archive-date=2013-03-06}}</ref>

In early 2020, the [[COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand|COVID-19 pandemic]] reached Phuket. By March of that year, Phuket and other regions in [[Southern Thailand]] implemented lockdown measures, including [[stay-at-home order]]s, a mandate for [[mask mandate|mask-wearing]], and [[social distancing]] protocols. While these measures were relatively effective in controlling the spread of the virus, they had a significant impact on Phuket's tourism-dependent economy. By 2022, Thailand transitioned towards the [[Endemic phase of COVID-19|post-pandemic phase]], marking the end of the country's intensive COVID-19 response measures.{{citation needed|date=April 2025}}

The [[murder of Nicole Sauvain-Weisskopf]], a Swiss national on holiday, occurred in Phuket in August 2021.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-58141926|title = Thailand man charged over death of Swiss tourist near waterfall|work = BBC News|date = 9 August 2021}}</ref>

[[File:Mural of King Rama 9 - Dibuk Road, Phuket.jpg|thumb|Mural of King Rama 9 on the Dibuk Road - Phuket]]

==Symbols==
The provincial slogan is "Pearl of the Andaman. Heavenly City of the South. Golden beaches. Two heroines. Virtue of Luang Pho Chaem." The provincial seal and flag show the monument of the heroic sisters [[Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon]].

[[List of provincial trees of Thailand|The provincial tree]] is ''[[Pterocarpus indicus]]'', and the provincial flower is ''[[Bougainvillea]]'' sp. Phuket is an important [[pearl]] cultivation area and is also nicknamed Pearl of the Andaman. The [[pearl oyster]] ''[[Pinctada maxima]]'' is the provincial aquatic animal.

==Geography==
{{Infobox Islands
| name               = Phuket
| image              = PhuketMap.png
| image_caption      = Map of Phuket (beaches in brown)
| image_size         =
| locator_map        =
| map_custom         =
| native_name        =
| native_name_link   =
| nickname           =
| location           = [[Andaman Sea]] (West)<br />[[Strait of Malacca]] (East)
| coordinates        = {{coord|7|53|24|N|98|23|54|E|display=inline}}
| archipelago        =
| total_islands      =
| major_islands      =
| area_km2           = 576
| length_km          = 50
| width_km           = 20
| highest_mount      = Khao Mai Thao Sip Song
| elevation_m        = 529
| country            = {{flag|Thailand}}
| country_admin_divisions_title = [[Provinces of Thailand|Province]]
| country_admin_divisions = {{flagu|Phuket}}
| country_admin_divisions_title_1 = [[Districts of Thailand|District]]
| country_admin_divisions_1 = [[Thalang district|Thalang]] (North)<br />[[Kathu district|Kathu]] (West)<br />[[Mueang Phuket district|Mueang Phuket]] (Southeast)
| country_admin_divisions_title_2 =
| country_admin_divisions_2 =
| country_largest_city =
| country_largest_city_population =
| population         = 386,605
| population_as_of   = 2015
| density_km2        = 1,042
| ethnic_groups      =
| additional_info    =
}}

Phuket Island (Ko Phuket), the largest island in Thailand, is situated in the southern part of the country, within the [[Andaman Sea]]. The island is characterized by its mountainous terrain, with a mountain range extending from the north to the south along its western side. This range is part of the larger [[Phuket mountain range]], which spans approximately {{cvt|440|km}} from the [[Kra Isthmus]].

The island's highest point is traditionally cited as Khao Mai Thao Sip Song, with an altitude of {{cvt|529|m}} above sea level. However, there are reports{{by whom|date=December 2023}} suggesting the presence of an unnamed peak in the Kamala Hills, behind Kathu Waterfall, which may reach an elevation of 542 meters above sea level.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}

As per the 2000 census, Phuket's population was 249,446, which increased to 525,709 by the 2010 census.<ref name="Census 2010">{{cite web|title=Thailand & Phuket Census 2010|url=https://www.hoteldealsphuket.com/Southtern_7_Statistical.pdf|website=National Statistical Office Thailand|access-date=14 July 2019}}</ref> This marked the highest growth rate of all provinces in Thailand, averaging 7.4 percent annually. The current population of Phuket is estimated to be around 600,000,<ref>[http://www.citypopulation.de/php/thailand-admin.php Administrative Divisions of Thailand: Provinces and Districts – Statistics and Maps by City Population] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120107061912/http://www.citypopulation.de/php/thailand-admin.php |date=2012-01-07 }}. Citypopulation.de (2011-11-12). Retrieved on 2013-08-25.</ref> comprising a diverse mix of migrants, international expatriates, Thais registered in other provinces, and local inhabitants. However, the official registered population, which counts only those included in a ''thabian ban'' or house registration book, was reported as 360,905 at the end of 2012. This figure does not encompass all residents, as many are not registered in the house registration system.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://stat.bora.dopa.go.th/stat/y_stat55.html |title=Archived copy |access-date=2013-10-27 |url-status=live |archive-url=http://archive.wikiwix.com/cache/20131027170754/http://stat.bora.dopa.go.th/stat/y_stat55.html |archive-date=2013-10-27 }}</ref>  In October 2025, Phuket MP Chalermpong Sangdee told Parliament that Phuket's current resident population is estimated to be around 2,000,000 people.<ref name="thephuketnews.com">{{cite web | title=Phuket MP calls for urgent action to resolve water shortages | date=17 October 2025 | url=https://www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-mp-calls-for-urgent-action-to-resolve-water-shortages-97983.php }}</ref>

Phuket Island, situated approximately {{convert|863|km}} south of [[Bangkok]], spans an area of {{convert|543|km2}}, not accounting for its smaller islets. It is accompanied by several other islands including [[Ko Lone]] ({{convert|4.77|km2}}), [[Ko Maprao]] ({{convert|3.7|km2}}), [[Ko Naka Yai]] ({{convert|2.08|km2}}), [[Ko Racha Noi]] ({{convert|3.06|km2}}), [[Ko Racha Yai]] ({{convert|4.5|km2}}), and [[Ko Sire]], the second largest, covering {{convert|8.8|km2}}.

The island measures {{convert|48|km}} in length from north to south, and its width extends to {{convert|21|km}}.<ref name="Phuket Town Treasure Map">[http://www.phuket-maps.com/treasure-map.htm Phuket Town Treasure Map] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100128204724/http://www.phuket-maps.com/treasure-map.htm |date=2010-01-28 }} www.phuket-maps.com</ref> Around 60% of Phuket Island is covered with forests, rubber, and palm oil plantations. Its west coast is adorned with several sandy beaches, while the east coast features predominantly muddy beaches. The southernmost tip of the island is marked by Laem Phromthep ({{langx|th|แหลมพรหมเทพ}} "Brahma's Cape"), known for being a popular viewpoint.

In the northern, more mountainous part of the island, the Khao Phra Thaeo No-Hunting Area spans over {{cvt|20|km2|mi2}}, dedicated to preserving [[rainforest]] ecosystems. This reserve's three highest peaks include Khao Prathiu ({{convert|384|m}}), [[Khao Bang Pae]] ({{convert|388|m}}), and [[Khao Phara]] ({{convert|422|m}}). Additionally, the [[Sirinat National Park]] on the northwest coast, established in 1981, encompasses an area of {{cvt|90|km2|mi2}}, including {{cvt|68|km2|mi2}} of marine area. This park is significant for encompassing the Nai Yang Beach, a nesting site for [[sea turtle]]s.<ref>{{cite web|title=Sirinart National Park|url=http://www.tourismthailand.org/Sirinart-National-Park|website=Amazing Thailand|publisher=Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT)|access-date=2015-01-16|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150115192755/http://www.tourismthailand.org/Sirinart-National-Park|archive-date=2015-01-15}}</ref> The total forested area of Phuket is approximately {{convert|113|km²|abbr=on}}, accounting for 20.6 percent of the province's total area.<ref name="AREA"/>

{{clear}}
{|role="presentation" class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|'''Location protected areas of Phuket'''
|&nbsp;
|-
|[[File:Map Phuket Protected Areas.png|thumb|left|700px|{{resize|150%|'''&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Phuket protected areas'''}}]]
{| class= "wikitable" style= "width:30%; display:inline-table;"
|-
| style="width:3%; background:#00FF00;"|&nbsp;
| style="width:27%;"|'''National park'''
|-
|&nbsp;&nbsp;1 ||[[Sirinat National Park|Sirinat]]
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="width:33%; display:inline-table;"
|-
| style="width:3%; background:#FDE910;"|&nbsp;
| style="width:30%;"|'''Non-hunting area'''
|-
|&nbsp;&nbsp;2 ||Khao Phra Thaeo
|-
|}
|}
{{clear}}

<gallery widths="200" heights="160">
File:In Phuket when the Sun goes down, the City starts to rock! (4973896467).jpg|Patong Beach is the most popular and well-developed beach on Phuket Island
File:Phuket, Thailand (Unsplash xE5vmelyM6k).jpg|[[Jellyfish]] at Phuket
File:Bryde´s whale.jpg|[[Bryde's whale]] swims off the Islands
File:Small crab on sand beach (Unsplash).jpg|Small crab on the sand beach at Phuket
File:Sunset NaiYang.jpg|Sunset on Nai Yang beach, northern Phuket
File:Thailand 2010 - panoramio (1).jpg|View from [[Abhakara Kiartivongse|Krom Luang Chumpon]] monument
</gallery>

===Climate===
Phuket, characterized by a [[tropical monsoon climate]] under the [[Köppen climate classification]], experiences relatively uniform temperatures throughout the year due to its equatorial location. The region typically observes an average annual high temperature around {{convert|32|°C|0}} and an average annual low around {{convert|25|°C|0}}. The climate of Phuket is divided into two distinct seasons: a dry season extending from December through March, and a wet season that spans the remaining eight months. Notably, even during the dry season, Phuket is subject to occasional rainfall.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}} On average, the city receives approximately {{convert|2200|mm|0}} of rainfall annually.

{{Weather box|width=auto
|location = Phuket ([[Mueang Phuket district]]) (1981–2010)
|collapsed= Yes
|metric first = Yes
|single line = Yes
|Jan record high C = 36.3
|Feb record high C = 36.7
|Mar record high C = 37.8
|Apr record high C = 37.8
|May record high C = 37.8
|Jun record high C = 35.8
|Jul record high C = 35.0
|Aug record high C = 35.5
|Sep record high C = 35.0
|Oct record high C = 35.3
|Nov record high C = 34.8
|Dec record high C = 34.2
|year record high C = 37.8
|Jan high C = 32.7
|Feb high C = 33.6
|Mar high C = 34.0
|Apr high C = 33.9
|May high C = 32.8
|Jun high C = 32.4
|Jul high C = 32.0
|Aug high C = 32.0
|Sep high C = 31.5
|Oct high C = 31.5
|Nov high C = 31.7
|Dec high C = 31.7
|year high C = 32.5
|Jan mean C = 28.1
|Feb mean C = 28.7
|Mar mean C = 29.2
|Apr mean C = 29.4
|May mean C = 28.8
|Jun mean C = 28.6
|Jul mean C = 28.2
|Aug mean C = 28.1
|Sep mean C = 27.5
|Oct mean C = 27.4
|Nov mean C = 27.7
|Dec mean C = 27.6
|year mean C = 28.3
|Jan low C = 24.5
|Feb low C = 24.9
|Mar low C = 25.4
|Apr low C = 25.8
|May low C = 25.6
|Jun low C = 25.5
|Jul low C = 25.1
|Aug low C = 25.3
|Sep low C = 24.6
|Oct low C = 24.5
|Nov low C = 24.7
|Dec low C = 24.4
|year low C = 25.0
|Jan record low C = 19.5
|Feb record low C = 18.6
|Mar record low C = 20.0
|Apr record low C = 20.5
|May record low C = 21.2
|Jun record low C = 21.9
|Jul record low C = 20.5
|Aug record low C = 21.1
|Sep record low C = 21.1
|Oct record low C = 20.5
|Nov record low C = 20.3
|Dec record low C = 18.4
|year record low C = 18.4
|rain colour = green
|Jan rain mm = 30.3
|Feb rain mm = 23.9
|Mar rain mm = 73.5
|Apr rain mm = 142.9
|May rain mm = 259.5
|Jun rain mm = 213.3
|Jul rain mm = 258.2
|Aug rain mm = 286.8
|Sep rain mm = 361.2
|Oct rain mm = 320.1
|Nov rain mm = 177.4
|Dec rain mm = 72.4
|Jan rain days = 4.6
|Feb rain days = 3.1
|Mar rain days = 6.7
|Apr rain days = 11.8
|May rain days = 18.8
|Jun rain days = 18.2
|Jul rain days = 19.6
|Aug rain days = 19.0
|Sep rain days = 22.1
|Oct rain days = 22.5
|Nov rain days = 15.4
|Dec rain days = 9.3
|year rain days = 171.1
|Jan humidity = 70
|Feb humidity = 69
|Mar humidity = 71
|Apr humidity = 75
|May humidity = 79
|Jun humidity = 79
|Jul humidity = 79
|Aug humidity = 79
|Sep humidity = 82
|Oct humidity = 82
|Nov humidity = 79
|Dec humidity = 75
|year humidity = 77
|Jan sun = 235.6
|Feb sun = 214.7
|Mar sun = 204.6
|Apr sun = 183.0
|May sun = 151.9
|Jun sun = 150.0
|Jul sun = 151.9
|Aug sun = 151.9
|Sep sun = 108.0
|Oct sun = 145.7
|Nov sun = 174.0
|Dec sun = 198.4
|year sun =
|Jand sun = 7.6
|Febd sun = 7.6
|Mard sun = 6.6
|Aprd sun = 6.1
|Mayd sun = 4.9
|Jund sun = 5.0
|Juld sun = 4.9
|Augd sun = 4.9
|Sepd sun = 3.6
|Octd sun = 4.7
|Novd sun = 5.8
|Decd sun = 6.4
|yeard sun = 5.7
|source 1 = Thai Meteorological Department<ref name=TMD1>{{cite web
 |url         = http://climate.tmd.go.th/content/file/75
 |title       = Climatological Data for the Period 1981–2010
 |publisher   = Thai Meteorological Department
 |access-date  = 8 August 2016
 |url-status     = live
 |archive-url  = https://web.archive.org/web/20160731044249/http://climate.tmd.go.th/content/file/75
 |archive-date = 31 July 2016
}}</ref>{{rp|27}}
|source 2 = Office of Water Management and Hydrology, Royal Irrigation Department (sun and humidity)<ref name=RID>{{cite web
 |url         = http://water.rid.go.th/hwm/cropwater/CWRdata/ETo/ETo_PenMon_2554.pdf
 |title       = ปริมาณการใช้น้ำของพืชอ้างอิงโดยวิธีของ Penman Monteith (Reference Crop Evapotranspiration by Penman Monteith)
 |publisher   = Office of Water Management and Hydrology, Royal Irrigation Department
 |language    = th
 |access-date  = 8 August 2016
 |url-status     = live
 |archive-url  = https://web.archive.org/web/20161201211547/http://water.rid.go.th/hwm/cropwater/CWRdata/ETo/ETo_PenMon_2554.pdf
 |archive-date = 1 December 2016
}}</ref>{{rp|116}}
}}

{{Weather box|width=auto
|location = Phuket ([[Phuket International Airport]]) (1981–2010)
|collapsed=yes
|metric first = Yes
|single line = Yes
|Jan record high C = 35.5
|Feb record high C = 38.5
|Mar record high C = 37.5
|Apr record high C = 37.6
|May record high C = 37.7
|Jun record high C = 35.0
|Jul record high C = 34.2
|Aug record high C = 34.8
|Sep record high C = 34.4
|Oct record high C = 33.9
|Nov record high C = 36.1
|Dec record high C = 33.5
|year record high C = 38.5
|Jan high C = 32.1
|Feb high C = 33.1
|Mar high C = 33.6
|Apr high C = 33.4
|May high C = 32.2
|Jun high C = 31.7
|Jul high C = 31.3
|Aug high C = 31.2
|Sep high C = 30.7
|Oct high C = 30.8
|Nov high C = 31.1
|Dec high C = 31.2
|year high C = 31.9
|Jan mean C = 27.0
|Feb mean C = 27.7
|Mar mean C = 28.3
|Apr mean C = 28.6
|May mean C = 28.4
|Jun mean C = 28.3
|Jul mean C = 27.9
|Aug mean C = 28.0
|Sep mean C = 27.3
|Oct mean C = 27.0
|Nov mean C = 26.9
|Dec mean C = 26.7
|year mean C = 27.7
|Jan low C = 22.6
|Feb low C = 22.8
|Mar low C = 23.4
|Apr low C = 24.2
|May low C = 24.7
|Jun low C = 24.9
|Jul low C = 24.6
|Aug low C = 24.9
|Sep low C = 24.2
|Oct low C = 23.8
|Nov low C = 23.5
|Dec low C = 22.9
|year low C = 23.9
|Jan record low C = 17.9
|Feb record low C = 17.1
|Mar record low C = 18.5
|Apr record low C = 20.2
|May record low C = 19.5
|Jun record low C = 19.6
|Jul record low C = 20.2
|Aug record low C = 18.9
|Sep record low C = 19.0
|Oct record low C = 20.8
|Nov record low C = 17.0
|Dec record low C = 18.9
|year record low C = 17.0
|rain colour = green
|Jan rain mm = 36.2
|Feb rain mm = 27.2
|Mar rain mm = 100.3
|Apr rain mm = 154.0
|May rain mm = 281.5
|Jun rain mm = 256.8
|Jul rain mm = 261.5
|Aug rain mm = 329.8
|Sep rain mm = 399.1
|Oct rain mm = 353.4
|Nov rain mm = 207.8
|Dec rain mm = 67.4
|Jan rain days = 6.2
|Feb rain days = 4.1
|Mar rain days = 7.9
|Apr rain days = 12.9
|May rain days = 20.2
|Jun rain days = 18.9
|Jul rain days = 20.3
|Aug rain days = 20.2
|Sep rain days = 22.8
|Oct rain days = 23.3
|Nov rain days = 16.6
|Dec rain days = 10.0
|year rain days = 183.4
|Jan humidity = 76
|Feb humidity = 74
|Mar humidity = 76
|Apr humidity = 80
|May humidity = 82
|Jun humidity = 82
|Jul humidity = 82
|Aug humidity = 82
|Sep humidity = 84
|Oct humidity = 86
|Nov humidity = 83
|Dec humidity = 79
|year humidity = 81
|Jan sun = 198.4
|Feb sun = 180.8
|Mar sun = 201.5
|Apr sun = 183.0
|May sun = 155.0
|Jun sun = 150.0
|Jul sun = 155.0
|Aug sun = 114.7
|Sep sun = 108.0
|Oct sun = 108.5
|Nov sun = 138.0
|Dec sun = 179.8
|year sun =
|Jand sun = 6.4
|Febd sun = 6.4
|Mard sun = 6.5
|Aprd sun = 6.1
|Mayd sun = 5.0
|Jund sun = 5.0
|Juld sun = 5.0
|Augd sun = 3.7
|Sepd sun = 3.6
|Octd sun = 3.5
|Novd sun = 4.6
|Decd sun = 5.8
|yeard sun = 5.1
|source 1 = Thai Meteorological Department<ref name=TMD1/>{{rp|27–28}}
|source 2 = Office of Water Management and Hydrology, Royal Irrigation Department (sun and humidity)<ref name=RID/>{{rp|117}}
}}

==Demographics==
In Thailand, [[Buddhism]] is the predominant religion, with a notable presence in Phuket. Approximately 20% of Phuket's population adheres to [[Islam]], primarily descendants of the island's original [[Austronesian peoples|Austronesian inhabitants]]. This [[Muslim]] community includes a substantial number of individuals of [[Malay people|Malay]] descent.<ref>{{cite book|title=To Venture Further|publisher=Sheridan House, Inc.|year=1999|page=53|author=Tristan Jones|isbn=1-57409-064-X|author-link=Tristan Jones}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|title=Siam: A Handbook of Practical, Commercial, and Political Information|url=https://archive.org/details/siamhandbookofpr00grah_0|publisher=F. G. Browne|year=1913|pages=[https://archive.org/details/siamhandbookofpr00grah_0/page/115 115], 124|author=Walter Armstrong Graham}}</ref> The ethnic composition of Phuket also includes a significant proportion of people of [[Thai Chinese|Chinese ancestry]], many descendants of tin miners who migrated to the island during the 19th century.<ref>{{cite book|title=Overseas Chinese Entrepreneurship and Capitalist Development in Southeast Asia|publisher=LIT Verlag Berlin-Hamburg-Münster|year=2000|page=108|author=Annabelle Gambe|isbn=3-8258-4386-6}}</ref> The [[Peranakan]] community, locally referred to as "Phuket Babas", forms a distinct part of this Chinese demographic, with historical links to the Peranakans of [[Penang]] and [[Malacca]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=D'Oliveiro|first1=Michael|title=The Peranakan Trail|url=http://www.thestar.com.my/story/?file=%2f2007%2f3%2f31%2flifefocus%2f17061503&sec=lifefocus|website=The Star Online|publisher=The Star (Malaysia)|access-date=2015-01-16|date=2007-03-31|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705155808/http://www.thestar.com.my/story/?file=%2f2007%2f3%2f31%2flifefocus%2f17061503&sec=lifefocus|archive-date=2015-07-05}}</ref>

According to the preliminary results of the 2010 census, Phuket had a population of 525,018, including approximately 115,881 expatriates, accounting for 21.1% of the total population. However, these figures may not be entirely accurate, as the Phuket Provincial Employment Office has recorded over 64,000 legally residing workers from Burma (Myanmar), Laos, and Cambodia, suggesting a higher actual population.<ref>[https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/Phuket-population-525000-Census Phuket News: Phuket population "only" 525,000: Census] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110512153211/http://www.phuketgazette.net/archives/articles/2011/article10280.html |date=2011-05-12 }}. Phuketgazette.net. Retrieved on 2013-08-25.</ref> The Thai census of 2015 reported a population of 386,605 for Phuket.
<ref>{{cite web|title=รายงานสถิติจำนวนประชากรและบ้านประจำปี พ.ศ.2558|url=http://stat.dopa.go.th/stat/statnew/statTDD/views/showProvinceData.php|website=Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA)|access-date=28 August 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160908043150/http://stat.dopa.go.th/stat/statnew/statTDD/views/showProvinceData.php|archive-date=8 September 2016}}</ref>

During peak tourist seasons, Phuket experiences a significant influx of visitors, with the population increasing to over one million.{{citation needed|date=December 2023}} Tourists, predominantly from Western Europe, China, Russia, and the United States, are drawn to the island around Christmas, contributing to this seasonal population increase.

===Religion===
{{Pie chart
|thumb = left
|caption = Religion in Phuket (2017)<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.phuket.go.th/webpk/file_data/gastronomy/01.pdf |title= Phuket: City of Gastronomy during 2017–2021 |author=  |date= 2017 |work= Phuket Province |publisher=  |access-date= 15 July 2021 |archive-date= 14 April 2021 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20210414040507/https://www.phuket.go.th/webpk/file_data/gastronomy/01.pdf |url-status= dead }}</ref>
|label2 = [[Islam]]
|value2 = 26.65
|color2 = Green
|label3 = [[Christianity]]
|value3 = 0.98
|color3 = Blue
|label1 = [[Buddhism]]
|value1 = 68.61
|color1 = Yellow
|label4 = Other
|value4 = 3.76
|color4 = Black
}}
{{clear}}

==Administrative divisions==
===Provincial government===
Phuket is divided into three districts (''[[Districts of Thailand|amphoe]]''), which are further divided into 17 subdistricts (''[[tambon]]''), and 103 villages (''[[muban]]'').
{| class="wikitable"  style="font-size:90%;"
| rowspan="5" |[[File:Districts Phuket.svg|thumb|200px]]
|-
! No.
! Name
! Thai
! Malay
|-
|1.||[[Mueang Phuket district|Mueang Phuket]]|| เมืองภูเก็ต || Bukit
|-
|2.||[[Kathu district|Kathu]]|| กะทู้ || Pantai Berbatu
|-
|3.||[[Thalang district|Thalang]] || ถลาง || Telong
|}

===Local government===
As of 26 November 2019 there are:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dla.go.th/work/abt/province.jsp |title=Number of local government organizations by province |date=26 November 2019 |website=dla.go.th |publisher=Department of Local Administration (DLA) |access-date=10 December 2019 |quote=41 Phuket: 1 PAO, 1 City mun., 2 Town mun., 9 Subdistrict mun., 6 SAO. |archive-date=26 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191126025045/http://www.dla.go.th/work/abt/province.jsp |url-status=dead }}</ref> one Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (''{{lang|th-Latn|ongkan borihan suan changwat}}'') and 12 municipal (''thesaban'') areas in the province. Phuket has city (''[[thesaban nakhon]]'') status. Kathu and Patong have town (''[[thesaban mueang]]'') status.  Further 9 subdistrict municipalities (''[[thesaban tambon]]''). The non-municipal areas are administered by six Subdistrict Administrative Organisations (SAO; ''ongkan borihan suan tambon'').

<gallery widths="175px" heights="200px">
File:Phuket Thailand Landsat 7 Photo 2000.jpg|Satellite photo, Dec 2000
File:Karte Golf von Thailand - Phuket.png
</gallery>

==Economy==
[[File:Muelle de Ao Por, Phuket, Tailandia, 2013-08-20, DD 06.JPG|thumbnail|upright=1.15|Ao Por port in Phuket]]
[[File:Phuket (Before).tif|thumbnail|right|[[Andaman Sea]]]]

[[Tin mining]] played a pivotal role in the economy of Phuket from the 16th century until its decline in the 20th century. Today, the economy of Phuket is primarily supported by two sectors: [[rubber tree]] plantations, contributing significantly to Thailand's status as the world's leading rubber producer,<ref>{{cite news|title=Top rubber producers again eye joint moves to arrest sliding prices|date=6 February 2014|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/rubber-producers-idUSL3N0LB1CP20140207|website=Reuters|access-date=12 September 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140912182926/http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/02/07/rubber-producers-idUSL3N0LB1CP20140207|archive-date=2014-09-12}}</ref> and [[tourism]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.phuket.net/visit-phuket/about/info/economy/|title=Phuket's Economy|date=2 September 2011 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202081057/http://www.phuket.net/visit-phuket/about/info/economy/|archive-date=2017-02-02}}</ref>

The development of Phuket's tourism sector began in earnest in the 1980s, with the west coast beaches, notably Patong, Karon, and Kata, emerging as key destinations. Following the [[2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami|2004 tsunami]], efforts were made to restore all affected buildings and attractions. The island has since undergone extensive development, evidenced by the construction of new hotels, apartments, and houses.

Phuket is also a major hub for luxury yacht sales and charter in Southeast Asia, with several international yacht brokerages operating from the island's marinas along the Andaman coast.<ref>{{Cite web |title=SLV Marine - Luxury Yachts for Sale in Phuket, Thailand {{!}} Premier Yacht Brokerage |url=https://www.slv-marine.com/ |access-date=2026-03-13 |website=SLV Marine - Luxury Yachts for Sale in Phuket, Thailand {{!}} Premier Yacht Brokerage |language=en}}</ref>

In a 2005 report by ''[[Fortune (magazine)|Fortune]]'', Phuket was listed among the top five global retirement destinations. The island's appeal as a retirement location is attributed to various factors, including its climate, lifestyle, and amenities.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2005/07/11/8265242/index.htm | work=CNN | title=Paradise Found: Where to Retire Abroad | date=July 11, 2005 | url-status=dead | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090212113054/http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/fortune_archive/2005/07/11/8265242/index.htm | archive-date=February 12, 2009 }}</ref>

The year 2017 marked a significant influx of tourists to Phuket, with the island welcoming approximately 10 million visitors, predominantly from overseas. China was noted as the primary source of these foreign tourists. Tourism in Phuket played a crucial role in Thailand's economy, generating about 385 billion [[Thai baht|baht]] in revenue, nearly 14% of the nation's total earnings of 2.77 trillion baht in that year.<ref name="BP-20180716">{{cite news |last1=Sritama |first1=Suchat |title=A Fatal Wake-up Call |url=https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/tourism-and-transport/1504234/a-fatal-wake-up-call |access-date=16 July 2018 |work=Bangkok Post |date=16 July 2018}}</ref>

In the first half of 2019, Phuket experienced a decrease in tourist arrivals, which impacted the local hospitality industry. This trend was marked by reduced hotel occupancy rates and intensified price competition among accommodations. Consequently, there was a noted decrease in revenue per available room ([[RevPAR]]). Analysts attribute this downturn to a combination of fewer tourists and an oversupply of hotel rooms. However, despite the decline in tourist numbers, the [[Tourism Authority of Thailand]] (TAT) reported a 3.1% increase in tourism revenues for the same period.

Estimates of the total number of hotel rooms in Phuket vary. According to Oxfam, Phuket has approximately 60,000 hotel rooms to cater to its 9.1 million annual visitors.<ref name=Oxfam-2017>{{cite book|last1=Sarosi|first1=Diana|title=Tourism's Dirty Secret; The Exploitation of Hotel Housekeepers|date=October 2017|publisher=Oxfam Canada|url=https://www.oxfam.ca/sites/default/files/file_attachments/tourisms_dirty_secret_-_oxfam_canada_report_-_oct_17_2017.pdf|access-date=18 October 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019010015/https://www.oxfam.ca/sites/default/files/file_attachments/tourisms_dirty_secret_-_oxfam_canada_report_-_oct_17_2017.pdf|archive-date=19 October 2017}}</ref>{{RP|7}} Contrasting figures were presented in reports by the Bangkok Post in September 2019. One report indicated that Phuket has around 600 hotels comprising 40,000 rooms.<ref name="BP-20190913">{{cite news |last1=Worraachaddejchai |first1=Dusida |title=Mice held back by Phuket's regulations |url=https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1748709/mice-held-back-by-phukets-regulations |access-date=13 September 2019 |work=Bangkok Post |date=13 September 2019}}</ref> A separate report from three weeks earlier estimated 93,941 available hotel rooms, excluding villas and hostels, with an expectation of an additional 15,000 rooms by 2024. These varying figures highlight the difficulty in accurately quantifying the total number of hotel accommodations in the region.<ref name=BP-20190805>{{cite news |last1=Kasemsuk |first1=Narumon |title=Phuket loses lustre |url=https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/1724759/phuket-loses-lususiness/1724759/phuket-loses-lustre |access-date=5 August 2019 |work=Bangkok Post |date=5 August 2019}}</ref>

In 2023, Phuket experienced a 15% increase in property prices with demand driven by an influx of Russian and Ukrainian nationals.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Russians flock to Thailand as tourism rebounds from collapse |url=https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2470937/russians-flock-to-thailand-as-tourism-rebounds-from-collapse |access-date=2024-02-23 |work=Bangkok Post |date=28 December 2022 |language=en}}</ref> The number of luxury villas launched in Phuket during the first six months of 2023 surged 12 times to 541 units worth a total 29.6 billion baht, from 45 units valued at 886 million baht the previous year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Century 21 Phuket Real Estate Market Outlook 2023 - 2024 |url=https://c21phuket.com/blog/century-21-phuket-real-estate-market-outlook-2023-2024 |access-date=2024-02-23 |website=c21phuket.com |language=en}}</ref>

As Thailand moves to [[Gambling in Thailand|legalize gambling]], Phuket is expected to be one of the locations of an [[integrated resort]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.casino.org/news/bangkok-phuket-among-cities-for-initial-thailand-casinos/|title=Bangkok, Phuket Among Cities for Initial Thailand Casinos|first=Todd|last=Shriber|date=March 14, 2025|website=Casino.org}}</ref>

==Transportation==
; Air
[[File:Thai Airways B747-400 HS-TGZ Phuket.jpg|thumbnail|right|Plane spotting at Mai Khao Beach in Phuket]]

[[Phuket International Airport|Phuket International Airport (HKT)]] initiated an expansion project in September 2012, with an allocated budget of 5.7 billion baht (approximately US$185.7 million). This expansion, which was scheduled for completion by 14 February 2016, aimed to increase the airport's annual passenger handling capacity from 6.5 million to 12.5 million and included the construction of a new international terminal.<ref name="An evergreen dream">{{cite web|title=An evergreen dream|url=http://www.ttgmice.com/magazine/?ID=32113&term_id=124&issues=229|publisher=TTGmice|access-date=18 January 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202222259/http://www.ttgmice.com/magazine/?ID=32113&term_id=124&issues=229|archive-date=2 December 2013}}</ref> The airport has regular flights to [[Bangkok]], towns of southern Thailand, and George Town, Malaysia.

; Rail
Phuket does not have a direct rail link. The nearest train stations are in [[Surat Thani railway station|Surat Thani]] and [[Khiri Rat Nikhom railway station|Khiri Rat Nikhom]], approximately {{cvt|230|km|mi}} away.

; City transit
[[Songthaew]]s provide an economical means of transport between towns and various beaches. There are also conventional bus services, and motorcycle taxis are numerous in the main town and the Patong Beach area. Traditional [[tuk-tuks]] have largely been replaced by small vans, predominantly red, with some in yellow or green. Taxi services in Phuket generally operate with fixed rates{{citation needed|date=December 2024}}. For travel from the airport to Phuket Town and major beaches, privately operated buses are available. Additionally, the ride-share service [[Grab (company)|Grab]] is frequently recommended by locals as a convenient transportation option.{{Citation needed|date=December 2023}}

[[File:Street sign in Phuket, Thailand.jpg|thumb|upright|Kata Road]]
; Bus
Phuket's Bus Station 2 BKS Terminal serves as the main link for transportation to and from Bangkok, as well as other major cities and provinces in Thailand, and is approximately four kilometres north of Phuket's town center and port area. It provides connections to various local transport options, including tuk-tuks, metered taxis, motorcycle taxis, songthaews, and local buses, facilitating access to the island's numerous beaches and resorts. Daily scheduled bus services by private and government companies originate from Bangkok's Mo Chit and Southern Terminal stations.

; Tram
In 2018, the [[Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand]] (MRTA) announced plans for the development of a tram network in Phuket, with bidding set to begin in 2020. This project, estimated at 39 billion baht, forms part of the government's private-public-partnership (PPP) initiative, aimed at accelerating its implementation. The proposed tram network, spanning approximately {{cvt|60|km|mi}} with 23 stations, is designed to extend from [[Takua Thung District]] in [[Phang Nga province]] to [[Chalong]] in Phuket. The initial phase of the project plans to connect Phuket International Airport with Chalong, covering a distance of around {{cvt|40|km|mi}}, with a projected completion timeline of three years.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bidding date set for 2020 for Phuket's new tram network |url=https://www.bangkokpost.com/news/general/1505258/bidding-date-set-for-2020-for-phukets-new-tram-network |access-date=18 July 2018 |work=Bangkok Post |date=18 July 2018}}</ref>

; Ferry
Ferry services serve neighboring islands, such as [[Phi Phi Islands|Phi Phi]] and [[Ko Lanta District|Koh Lanta]]. They operate daily from Rassada Pier and Tonsai Pier.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.directferries.com/koh_lanta_phuket_ferry.htm|title=Koh Lanta to Phuket ferry tickets, compare times and prices|website=www.directferries.com|language=en-us|access-date=2018-11-07}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.phuketharbour.com/|title=Phuket to Phi Phi Ferry {{!}} Phuket to Phi Phi Speedboat|work=phuketharbour.com|access-date=2018-11-07|archive-date=2020-08-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807145635/http://www.phuketharbour.com/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

== Health ==
Phuket has six hospitals. The main hospital, operated by the [[Ministry of Public Health (Thailand)|Ministry of Public Health]], is [[Vachira Phuket Hospital]], with smaller hospitals at Thalang and Patong. There are also three private hospitals: [[Phuket International Hospital]], [[Bangkok Hospital Phuket]], and [[Mission Hospital Phuket]].

==Human achievement index 2022==
{| class="wikitable floatright" style="width:400px;"
|-
| style="text-align:center; width:100px; background:black; color:white;"| Health
| style="text-align:center; width:100px; background:black; color:white;"| Education
| style="text-align:center; width:100px; background:black; color:white;"| Employment
| style="text-align:center; width:100px; background:black; color:white;"| Income
|-
| [[File:Health icon Thai.png|95px]]
| [[File:Round Landmark School Icon - Transparent.svg|100px]]
| [[File:Employment icon.png|100px]]
| [[File:Numismatics and Notaphily icon.png|100px]]
|-
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| 7
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| 10
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| 63
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| 36
|-
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| Housing
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| Family
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| Transport
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| Participation
|-
| style="height:100px;"| [[File:586-house-with-garden.svg|100px]]
| [[File:Parents, enfants, famille.png|center|85px]]
| [[File:Groundtransport inv.svg|100px]]
| [[File:Icon Sociopolítica y relaciones internacionales (wikiproyect, es.wp).png|90px]]
|-
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| 69
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| 52
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| 5
| style="text-align:center; background:black; color:white;"| 74
|-
| colspan="4"; style="background:black; color:white;"| Province Phuket, with an HAI 2022 value of 0.6399, is "average" and occupies 41 place in rankings.
|}

Since 2003, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Thailand has tracked progress on human development at the sub-national level using the [[Human Achievement Index]] (HAI), a composite index covering all the eight key areas of human development. The National Economic and Social Development Board (NESDB) has taken over this task since 2017.<ref name="HAI 2565" />

{| class="wikitable" ---valign=top
||Rank||Classification
|-
||1—13||"high"
|-
||14—29||"somewhat high"
|-
||30—45||"average"
|-
||46—61||"somewhat low"
|-
||62—77||"low"
|}
{|role= "presentation" class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
|'''Map with provinces and HAI 2022 rankings'''
|-
|[[File:HAI 2022 rankings.svg|950px]]
|}
{{clear}}

== Sports ==
[[Phuket F.C.]], also known as The Southern Sea Kirins, was established in 2009 and subsequently joined the Regional League South Division. The team designated [[Surakul Stadium]] as their home ground for matches. Sirirak Konthong took the helm as the inaugural coach of the team. In their formative year, Phuket F.C. demonstrated significant progress in the league.

The 2010 season marked a notable achievement for Phuket F.C., as the team clinched the title in the Southern Regional Division 2. Despite a loss to Buriram FC in the final, Phuket F.C. secured second place in the Division 2 Champions League. This performance facilitated their promotion to the [[2011 Thai Division 1 League|Thai Division 1 League]] for the 2011 season.

In 2017, Phuket F.C. was officially dissolved. This decision was influenced by financial difficulties, particularly issues surrounding the termination of contracts.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.khaosod.co.th/sports/news_649804|title=ภูเก็ตยุบสโมสรหลังฟีฟ่าสั่งจ่ายค่าปรับ83ล้านให้อดีตแข้งต่างชาติ - ข่าวสด|date=28 November 2017 }}</ref>

The following year, in 2018, Phuket F.C. underwent significant changes. The club merged with [[Banbueng F.C.]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.siamsport.co.th/football-thailand/thaileague-1/24094/|title=รอเปิดตัว! บอร์ดเมืองตรังยัน "ภูเก็ต เฟื่องคร" ย้ายซบ ชลบุรี|date=June 18, 2023|website=www.siamsport.co.th}}</ref> a move that resulted in a substantial reorganization. By 2019, this merged entity adopted the name Phuket City.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mgronline.com/south/detail/9620000015912|title=เปิดตัวยิ่งใหญ่! สโมสร "ภูเก็ต ซิตี้" มั่นใจเลื่อนชั้นภายในปีนี้ ดันภูเก็ตเป็นเมืองแห่งกีฬา|date=14 February 2019}}</ref> However, this renaming was short-lived. Subsequent changes in the club's management, particularly a takeover by the board members of Banbueng F.C., led to a reversion to the name Banbueng F.C.{{citation needed|date=December 2023}} Along with this change in nomenclature, the club relocated its home ground to the [[Institute of Physical Education Chonburi Campus Stadium|IPE Chonburi Stadium]] in Chonburi.

In a separate development, Patong City, another football club, marked a notable milestone in 2020. The club participated in the [[2020–21 Thai League 3 Southern Region]], marking its first appearance in this league. This participation signified a new chapter in the club's history and its evolving presence in regional football.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mgronline.com/south/detail/9630000015064|title=ทีมฟุตบอลน้องใหม่ของคนภูเก็ต "ป่าตอง ซิตี้" ก้าวสู่ลีกอาชีพครั้งแรก|date=14 February 2020}}</ref>

== Attractions ==
[[File:Wat Chalong - Phuket.jpg|thumb|right|[[Wat Chalong]]]]
* The [[Phuket Big Buddha]] is a prominent statue of Gautama Buddha in the Maravichai posture, situated in Phuket. This statue stands at a height of {{cvt|45|m|ft}} and spans {{cvt|25.45|m|ft}} in width. Constructed primarily from concrete and clad in Burmese white marble, it overlooks Ao Chalong Bay. The statue serves as the principal Buddha image for Wat Kitthi Sankaram (Wat Kata) temple. In 2008, Somdet Phra Yanasangwon, the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, designated the Phuket Big Buddha as the 'Buddhist Treasure of Phuket.'
* The Two Heroines Monument (อนุสาวรีย์วีรสตรี), located in Thalang District, is a memorial dedicated to [[Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon|Thao Thep Kasattri (Kunying Jan) and Thao Sri Sunthon (Mook)]]. These figures are historically significant for their role in mobilizing residents to repel Burmese forces during an invasion in 1785.<ref>{{cite web|title=Two Heroines Monument|url=http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Two-Heroines-Monument--669|website=Amazing Thailand|publisher=Tourism Authority of Thailand|access-date=2015-01-03|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20150103182400/http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Two-Heroines-Monument--669|archive-date=2015-01-03}}</ref>
* The Thalang National Museum (พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติ ถลาง), established in 1985 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Thalang War, is an institution that showcases the cultural and historical heritage of Phuket and its surrounding regions.<ref>{{cite web|title=Phuket Museums|url=http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Thalang-National-Museum--6017|website=Amazing Thailand|publisher=Tourist Authority of Thailand|access-date=2015-01-03|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140228080352/http://www.tourismthailand.org/See-and-Do/Sights-and-Attractions-Detail/Thalang-National-Museum--6017|archive-date=2014-02-28}}</ref>
* [[Karon Beach|Hat Karon]] (หาดกะรน), known as the second largest tourist beach in Phuket,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Hat Karon |url=https://www.tourismthailand.org/Attraction/hat-karon |access-date=2024-02-23 |website=www.tourismthailand.org |language=en}}</ref> is situated approximately {{cvt|20|km|mi}} from the town center.
[[File:Karon Beach, Phuket.jpg|thumb|upright|Karon Beach]]
* On On Hotel, located in downtown Phuket Town, gained international recognition after its appearance in the 2000 film 'The Beach', starring Leonardo DiCaprio.{{citation needed|reason=Need reliable source to support the claim|date=December 2023}}
* [[Wat Chalong]] (วัดฉลอง), officially known as Wat Chaiyathararam (วัดไชยธาราราม), is a significant historical temple in Phuket. It features a statue of Luang Pho Cham, a revered figure known for his role in assisting the local populace during the Angyee rebellion in 1876, under the reign of King Rama V.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-29 |title=Phuket Property: Prices, Hot Spots & Trends |url=https://hulaproperty.com/blog/phuket-property-prices-hot-spots-trends |website=Hula Property |language=en}}</ref>
* [[Old Phuket Town]], encompassing areas around Thalang, Dibuk, Yaowarat, Phang Nga, and Krabi Roads, is distinguished by its Sino-Portuguese architectural style.
* Aquaria Phuket opened on August 24, 2019.<ref>{{cite news |title=BIGGEST AQUARIUM OPENS |date=25 August 2019 |publisher=Bangkok Post |url=https://www.bangkokpost.com}}</ref>
* Freedom Beach, characterized by its fine white sand and clear blue waters, is a popular destination near Phuket. Located close to Patong Beach, it is accessible by boat or through a hiking trail.{{citation needed|date=April 2024}}
* A day trip to the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket typically involves a 50-minute journey by speedboat. These islands are renowned for their scenic beauty and are a favored destination for tourists seeking to experience the natural allure of the region.{{citation needed|date=April 2024}}

== Local culture ==
* The '''Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon Fair''', observed annually on March 13, commemorates the heroines Thao Thep Krasattri and Thao Si Sunthon. These figures are celebrated for their leadership in mobilizing the people of Thalang to defend against Burmese invaders. This event holds significant historical importance in Phuket.
* '''[[Nine Emperor Gods Festival]]''', known in [[Hokkien]] as 'Kiú-Hông Sēng-Huē' or 'Kiú-Hông Iâ', and locally among the Chinese community in Phuket as the Vegetarian Festival ('Tsia̍h-tshài-tseh' in Hokkien or 'เทศกาลกินเจ' (กินผัก-เจี๊ยะฉ่าย) in Thai), occurs on the first day of the ninth Chinese lunar month. This period usually falls between late September and early October. During this festival, Phuket islanders of Chinese ancestry adhere to a nine-day vegetarian diet, a practice believed to bring purification and avert troubles in the coming year. The festival is known for its ascetic rituals, including fire-walking and ladder-climbing on sharp blades.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vegetarian Festival, Phuket|url=http://www.tourismthailand.org/Vegetarian-Festival|website=Amazing Thailand|publisher=Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)|access-date=2015-01-16|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180502223448/https://www.tourismthailand.org/Vegetarian-Festival|archive-date=2018-05-02}}</ref>
* The '''[[Ghost Festival]]''', or 'Phóo-tōo-tseh' in Hokkien ('Û-lân-phûn Sēng-Huē' in full), is celebrated on the middle day of the seventh Chinese lunar month. Central to this festival is the tradition of ancestor worship, which involves preparing food offerings, burning incense, and burning joss paper, symbolizing material items like clothes and gold for the spirits. The festival typically includes serving elaborate vegetarian meals with seats reserved for deceased family members. Activities may also encompass the release of miniature paper boats and lanterns on water, symbolizing guidance for lost souls.
* '''Phuket King's Cup Regatta''' (งานแข่งเรือใบชิงถ้วยพระราชทาน), held each December, is a prominent yachting event hosted by the Kata Beach Resort. It attracts participants, predominantly yachtsmen from neighboring countries, competing for various trophies.<ref>{{cite web|title=Phuket King's Cup Regatta|url=http://www.kingscup.com/|website=Phuket King's Cup Regatta|access-date=2015-01-03|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150108035434/http://www.kingscup.com/|archive-date=2015-01-08}}</ref>
* The '''Laguna Phuket Triathlon''' (ลากูน่าภูเก็ตไตรกีฬา) is an annual event held each December in Phuket. This triathlon, comprising a {{cvt|1800|m|ft}} swim, a {{cvt|55|km|mi}} bike race, and a {{cvt|12|km|mi}} run, along with a {{cvt|6|km|mi}} fun run, attracts a diverse array of athletes from around the globe.<ref>{{cite web|title=Laguna Phuket Triathlon|url=http://www.challengelagunaphuket.com/tri-fest-races/laguna-phuket-triathlon/|website=Challenge; Laguna-Phuket Tri-Fest|access-date=2015-01-16|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150111153428/http://www.challengelagunaphuket.com/tri-fest-races/laguna-phuket-triathlon/|archive-date=2015-01-11}}</ref>
* The '''Phuket Travel Fair''' (เทศกาลเปิดฤดูการท่องเที่ยวจังหวัดภูเก็ต), also known as the Patong Carnival, commences on November 1 each year. Predominantly celebrated in Patong, this event is characterized by colorful parades, sports events, and beauty competitions, attracting significant participation from both foreign tourists and Thai nationals. The opening of the Patong Carnival is a particularly popular event, drawing crowds exceeding 30,000 visitors.<ref name=Thaiger>{{cite web|title=Phuket Carnival 2018 kicks off in a blaze of colour|url=https://thethaiger.com/news/phuket/phuket-carnival-2018-kicks-off-in-a-blaze-of-colour|publisher=The Thaiger|date=2018-11-01|access-date=2018-11-01|location=Phuket}}</ref>
* The '''Chao Le (Sea Gypsy) Boat Floating Festival''' (งานประเพณีลอยเรือชาวเล) is observed annually during the middle of the sixth and eleventh lunar months. This festival involves communities from the sea gypsy villages of Rawai and Sapam, Ko Si-re, and Laem La, located near Phuket's northern tip. Key activities include nighttime ceremonies where small boats are set adrift, a tradition akin to the Thai festival of Loi Krathong, aimed at dispelling evil and bringing good fortune.
* '''Phuket Bike Week''' is the largest motorbike event in Asia. It annually draws motorcyclists and spectators from various countries, including France. The event features a range of activities such as motorcycle exhibitions, bike parades themed 'Ride for Peace', custom bike contests, and live entertainment. Additionally, it includes competitions like Mr. Phuket Bike Week and showcases bike accessories and apparel from both local and international vendors.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Phuket Bike Week: 11-19 April 2015|url = http://www.thaifestivalblogs.com/phuket-bike-week/|access-date = 2015-09-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150929125800/http://www.thaifestivalblogs.com/phuket-bike-week/|archive-date = 29 September 2015}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title = 22nd anniversary PHUKET BIKE WEEK 2016 on April 8-16, 2016 - at Patong Beach and Phuket Town, Phuket, Thailand|url = http://www.phuketbikeweek.com/home.php|website = www.phuketbikeweek.com|access-date = 2015-09-28|url-status = live|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150929014315/http://www.phuketbikeweek.com/home.php|archive-date = 2015-09-29}}</ref>

==Twin towns and sister cities==
Phuket province has several [[sister cities]]. They are:
{{Div col|colwidth=20em}}
: {{Flagicon|FRA}} [[Nice]], France (1989)
: {{Flagicon|USA}} [[Las Vegas]], United States (1997)
: {{Flagicon|CHN}} [[Yantai]], China (1997)
: {{Flagicon|IND}} [[Port Blair]], India (2005)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.urbanindia.nic.in/programme/lsg/List_T_Cities.pdf |publisher=Ministry of Urban Development, India |title=List of twinned cities |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717083810/http://www.urbanindia.nic.in/programme/lsg/List_T_Cities.pdf |archive-date=2011-07-17 }}</ref>
: {{Flagicon|CHN}} [[Hainan]], China (2005)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hainan.gov.cn/code/V3/en/Sister%20Cities.html|publisher=Heinan Government|title=Sister Cities|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100716181135/http://www.hainan.gov.cn/code/V3/en/Sister%20Cities.html|archive-date=2010-07-16}}</ref>
: {{Flagicon|RUS}} [[Nakhodka]], Russia (2006)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nakhodka-city.ru/news.aspx?id=8844&lang=eng|title=Nakhodka celebrates the day of twin-cities|publisher=Nakhodka City Administration|date=2009-04-24|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110721155227/http://www.nakhodka-city.ru/news.aspx?id=8844&lang=eng|archive-date=2011-07-21|access-date=2010-07-13}}</ref>
: {{Flagicon|CHN}} [[Suining]], China (2016)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-becomes-sister-city-with-suining-china-58061.php#kpWkW48Y6Poe7Wlt.97|title=Phuket becomes sister city with Suining, China|publisher=Nakhodka City Administration|date=2016-06-30|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202000638/http://www.thephuketnews.com/phuket-becomes-sister-city-with-suining-china-58061.php#kpWkW48Y6Poe7Wlt.97|archive-date=2017-02-02}}</ref>
: {{Flagicon|CHN}} [[Macau]], China (2018)<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.gov.mo/zh-hant/news/239992/ | title=行政長官與泰國外長會面 澳門普吉府締結友好城市 | date=9 May 2018 }}</ref>
{{Div col end}}

==In popular culture==
Phuket was a primary filming location for the 2005 film ''[[Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith]]'', serving as the basis for most of the exterior shots of the planet Kashyyyk, especially during the sequences at the Kachirho Beach location.

==Gallery==
<gallery widths=200 heights=140>
File:Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon.jpg|Monument to Thao Thep Kasattri and Thao Sri Sunthon in Phuket
File:KataNoiBeach.jpg|[[Hat Kata Noi|Kata Noi Beach]]
File:"Big Budda" Phuket 2014 february - panoramio (4).jpg|[[Phuket Big Buddha|Big Buddha]] monument overlooking Phuket
File:Palm tree at dawn, Patong beach.jpg|[[Patong]] Beach
File:Koh hae, Thailand.jpg|Ko Hae Island
File:Promthep Cape 04.jpg|Phromthep Cape and Kaeo Yai Island
File:Phuket 2014, december - panoramio (4).jpg|Mai Khao, [[Thalang District]]
</gallery>

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Wikivoyage|Phuket}}
* Forbes, Andrew, and Henley, David (July 2016): [http://www.cpamedia.com/article.php?pg=archive&acid=120510162540&aiid=120524153854 "Phuket's Historic Peranakan Community"]

{{Geographic location
|Centre    = Phuket province
|North     = [[Phang Nga province]]
|Northeast =
|East      = ''[[Andaman Sea]]''
|Southeast =
|South     = ''[[Andaman Sea]]''
|Southwest =
|West      = ''[[Andaman Sea]]''
|Northwest =
}}
{{Provinces of Thailand|state=collapsed}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Phuket province| ]]
[[Category:Andaman Sea]]
[[Category:Islands of the Strait of Malacca]]
[[Category:Islands of Thailand]]
[[Category:Provinces of Thailand]]
[[Category:Southern Thailand]]
[[Category:Strait of Malacca]]