Toh Sae Shrine

When visiting Phuket, beyond the beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine, one must not miss a visit to “Khao Toh Sae,” a sacred place steeped in history and beliefs that have been passed down through generations.

At the Toh Sae Shrine, there are three “Por Ta Toh Sae” deities: Por Ta Toh Sae Khao (White), Por Ta Toh Sae Dam (Black), and Por Ta Toh Sae Daeng (Red). Phuket residents believe that Por Toh Sae were the pioneers who established communities in Phuket from the earliest times. According to historical accounts, they were three Muslim brothers who traveled by wooden boat to the shores and subsequently dispersed to cultivate and expand agricultural settlements in different areas, eventually becoming patron deities or “Toh” with protective jurisdiction over different regions of Phuket Island: Toh Ya at Surin Beach, Kamala; Toh Sae in the Phuket Town market area; and Toh Phra Taew at Khao Phra Taew, Thalang District.

An intriguing legend concerns “Nai Toh Sae,” a devout Javanese practitioner who undertook a pilgrimage to Phuket approximately 100 years ago. He chose the summit of Khao Toh Sae as his place for meditation and religious observance. Local people who witnessed his presence believed him to be a deity. Nai Toh Sae’s reputation was renowned for his mystical powers and ability to assist people in dire circumstances. Additionally, atop the hill lies a sacred well that locals believe possesses healing powers for various ailments.

Although Nai Toh Sae eventually disappeared mysteriously, the faith and reverence have endured, transforming the site into a place of deep spiritual significance and importance for the people of Phuket.