Wat Kanan

Many people dream of seeing the famous White Temple in Chiang Rai — a dazzling structure that seems to be woven from light, and has long become a symbol of Northern Thailand. But few know that Phuket now has its own snow-white wonder.

Wat Kanan, the island’s only White Temple, is located in the Thalang area. For now, only a handful of people know about it, which means you can still visit without crowds of tourists or noisy tour groups.

The temple is quite new: construction began almost ten years ago, but progress has been gradual, as the project relies solely on donations.

The main feature of Wat Kanan is its immaculate ubosot — the ordination hall — which stands right on the water. Its white dome is reflected in the mirror-like surface of the lake, surrounded by jungle, birdsong, and complete silence. The place feels as if it was created for meditation and inner peace.

On the first floor of the ubosot is a museum displaying artifacts found in the area: objects from ancient cultures and a statue from the late Ayutthaya period, over 200 years old. The second floor is reserved for prayer and religious ceremonies and houses the temple’s main Buddha statue.

Another remarkable part of the temple complex is the statues of nine heroes to whom locals bring offerings. The chapels are built in the Maha Ut style — according to ancient beliefs, such structures can purify a person from negative energy and protect them from black magic.

The pond surrounding Wat Kanan is full of life — fish and turtles swim peacefully in its waters. Feeding them is considered a good omen that brings luck.

Wat Kanan impresses not only with its architecture but also with its atmosphere. The white lines of the building blend harmoniously with the lush greenery of the tropics and the deep blue sky — everything here breathes serenity and light.