Wat Suwan Khirikhet

The main Buddhist temple of Patong, set back from the eastern end of the beach near the bypass road. The compound is modest by Thai standards but unmistakable: a tall white-and-gold ordination hall, several smaller shrines, and a constant trickle of locals stopping to make merit before work or evening prayers.

For travellers it is a useful reminder that Patong is still a Thai town outside its tourist strip. The temple gets busy on Buddhist holidays and is a good place to step away from the bars for half an hour. As at any temple, dress modestly — covered shoulders and knees — and remove your shoes before entering buildings.

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