Phuket’s “Big Buddha Temple” closed, under investigation

The Big Buddha Temple, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Phuket's Karon district, has been ordered to suspend all activities, pending the outcome of an investigation into whether it has encroached upon national forest reserves.

The construction is also thought to have contributed to the mudslide that killed 13 people living near the foot of the mountain on August 23.

Police were seen posting up "Stop" and "No Entry" signs at the entrance to the temple today, following an order from the Phuket Sangha Office.

The Phuket provincial chief monk had already ordered the abbot of the temple to suspend all construction on Khao Nark Kerd Mountain, where the Big Buddha is located.

Forest Department officials suspect that the deadly mudslide was partially caused by the illegal clearing of trees from the slopes of the mountain, which is part of the national forest reserve.

The Big Buddha, depicted in a seated position, is 45m tall, 25.45m wide and made of concrete covered in white marble.

Facing Chalong Bay, it was declared the 'Buddhist Treasure of Phuket' by the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand in 2008.

The temple’s elevated location offers the best 360o views of the island, including Phuket Town, Kata, Karon and Chalong Bay. Worldwide, guidebooks list the temple as a must-visit venue for tourists.