Phuket History, Phuket Thailand Travel Guide.

Cladius Ptolemy c. AD 90 – c. 168) Greek geographer first refers to ‘Junk Ceylon’ (Phuket)

Phuket was part of the Shivite Empire (Tom Porn Ling), which was based on the Malay Peninsula, during the first millennium A.D. Later part of the Srivichai and Siri Tahm Empires.

Phuket became under Thai control during the Sukothai period in the 13th century. Becoming associated with Takua – Pah (Phang Nga province). Phuket was economically important due to its natural resources, ivory, gems, natural pearls, hides, spices, firewood, caulk for ship hulls, and ambergris. Even then Phuket attracted many visitors, Malay pirates, Arabian traders, Tamil merchants, Han dynasty traders and Portuguese explorers.

In the 16th century the Dutch established a trading post for Phuket’s tin resources. Administering the south and west of the island. Other nations, such as the British and French became interested in Phuket due to the growing importance of tin and strategic location.

Once again during the 19th century tin was the cause of another invasion. This time by Chinese laborers who went on to be a major cultural influence. To this day the vegetarian festival is a significant event in Phuket’s calendar. 1876 saw uprising of disgruntled Chinese mine workers who set out on a bloody rampage across the island. This caused the locals to gather at Wat Chalong under the protection of the monks, said to be great healers and in possession of great powers, who brought the revolt to a peaceful conclusion.

In 1785 the Burmese launched an attack against Phuket, with intent of taking slaves. They did not count on the ingenuity of two sisters who lead the Island women dressed as soldiers to quell the invasion.

With the beginning of the constitutional monarchy in 1933 Phuket became a province of Thailand

The 1980’s saw the beginning of tourism. Phuket Island, the jewel in the crown of South East Asia, quite simply offers something for everyone. Whether a fun packed family, a rip roaring adventure, romance or relaxation holiday The natural magnificence of the virgin tropical forest is home to indigenous wildlife and rare plants. Clean sandy beaches are washed by the crystal clear waters of the Andaman Sea, providing an abundance of seafood, which contributes to some of the most mouthwatering dining experiences in the world. These ingredients together with wonderful smiling people and reasonable prices have made this island a top holiday destination