Discover a Wilder Side of the Island You Thought You Knew

When most people think of Phuket, images of white-sand beaches and turquoise waters come to mind. But beyond the coastline lies a rich, often overlooked world — the ancient Phuket trees that line the island’s trails, temple grounds, and sleepy village paths.

A walk under these towering canopies isn’t just about fresh air — it’s a portal into local culture, nature’s pharmacy, and Phuket’s quieter magic.

Where to Go: Nature Walks Beneath the Phuket Trees

Khao Phra Thaeo National Park

Home to Phuket’s last virgin rainforest, this park is a living museum of native trees. Banyan, dipterocarp, and fig trees all share space here — some centuries old. The jungle feels alive, with birds, monkeys, and cool mist rising from the earth.

Tip: Look out for the Ton Sai waterfall trail — a peaceful 45-minute walk through old-growth forest.

Wat Suwan Khiri Wong (Patong Temple)

Not just a temple — the grounds are surrounded by spiritual trees wrapped in coloured cloths, believed to hold protective spirits. You might notice locals placing offerings under specific trees — part of Phuket’s animist beliefs woven into Buddhist tradition.

Phuket Trees That Locals Respect & Revere

Some Phuket trees carry more than shade — they carry meaning. Here are a few you might meet on your walk:

• Bodhi Tree (ต้นโพธิ์) – Symbol of enlightenment; often planted in temples.

• Banyan Tree (ต้นไทร) – Sacred tree, said to be the home of spirits.

• Tamarind (มะขาม) – Used in cooking, but also in old remedies for fever and digestion.

You’ll sometimes see monks or elders sitting quietly beneath these trees — not just for shade, but reflection.

A Living Medicine Cabinet

Phuket’s forests aren’t just beautiful — they’re functional. Here are three trees locals use in traditional ways:

• Neem (สะเดา) – Leaves used in herbal teas for detoxing the body.

• Plai (ไพล) – A root used like ginger, often found in massage balms for sore muscles.

• Makham Pom (มะขามป้อม) – Indian gooseberry tree, with fruit rich in vitamin C.

Slow Down & Look Up

Next time you’re in Phuket, skip the scooter and take a slow walk through one of these shady trails. Let the birdsong guide you, feel the difference in temperature under a tree’s shadow, and reconnect with an older, wilder part of the island.

Because sometimes, the most unforgettable part of your trip… is the one you almost walked past.