On March 2, 2026, the Phuket Provincial Office reported that the "Big Buddha" is ready for a new chapter of faith, preparing to officially welcome Buddhists on "Makha Bucha Day," this March 3.
After a long wait, Phra Phuttha Ming Mongkol Akenakkhiri, popularly known as the "Big Buddha," is set to officially open for worship by the public and tourists tomorrow (March 3, 2026), which coincides with Makha Bucha Day. This marks a significant milestone for faith and cultural tourism in Phuket Province.
This opening will be managed solely by Wat Kittisangkaram (Wat Kata), with five monks from Wat Kittisangkaram stationed there, operating under the supervision of Phra Khru Wisuthikittiyaporn, the abbot of Wat Kata, along with the temple committee overseeing all management. To ensure clarity and unity, the site will be officially renamed "Wat Kittisangkaram (Big Buddha)." It will be open for visits daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Regarding religious ceremonies, they will be conducted following the exact guidelines of Wat Kittisangkaram, 100% faithfully, using a specific 15-rai area that has been authorized by the Royal Forest Department. All operations strictly adhere to the 25 conditions, the crucial framework that has allowed the Big Buddha to reopen for worship once again.
The temple clearly confirms that all operations are completely unrelated to the previous foundation that once managed the site, ensuring full transparency and compliance with the law. On this important Buddhist holy day, "Makha Bucha Day," the temple invites Buddhists to witness the beginning of this new chapter of faith at the "Big Buddha," once again a landmark of Phuket.