Am Bang Neow is a Chinese shrine in Phuket Town where Taoist and Buddhist deities are worshipped under one roof. Its traditional architecture includes dragons and lions guarding the entrance, with statues for worship inside. The calm setting suits a quiet visit outside festival time; in October, the shrine takes part in Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival, when ceremonies and food stalls bring a livelier scene. Remove your shoes before entering and be considerate when taking photographs.
The shrine during the Vegetarian Festival
Am Bang Neow is one of the shrines involved in Phuket’s annual Vegetarian Festival. The festival brings ceremonies and a street procession to Phuket Town. A procession associated with the shrine takes place at 7am, and the town can be very crowded on that day, so allow extra time to get around.
Vegetarian food stalls gather near the shrine during the festival. Traditional Chinese opera and martial arts displays have also been part of the celebrations there.
A respectful visit
The shrine’s architecture follows Chinese traditions, with dragon and lion figures at the entrance. Inside, statues represent deities worshipped at the site. Remove your shoes before entering, and take care with photography so that worshippers and religious activity are not disturbed.
A donation is suggested to support the shrine and its religious practices.
Häufige Fragen
When is the best time to visit Am Bang Neow?
Visit during Phuket’s Vegetarian Festival in October to see ceremonies and food stalls. The procession takes place at 7am, and crowds in Phuket Town can be very large.
Do I need to remove my shoes at Am Bang Neow?
Yes. Remove your shoes before entering the shrine as a sign of respect.
What can I see inside Am Bang Neow?
The shrine has statues for worship and traditional Chinese architectural details, including dragon and lion figures at the entrance.
