Naga Monument, Phuket

Naga is an important character in Thai mythology and traditions, represented by a large snake. Naga is a deity considered to be the protector of springs, wells and rivers. They bring rain and give fertility to the land. Usually Nagas are represented as a golden snake, as the one at Karon, but sometimes they widely differ in coloring. Four types of Nagas are part of local culture: dark Naga, guardian Naga, water Naga and spirit Naga. The one at the monument here is a guardian type. It is an interesting monument to see and is characteristic of the local culture and beliefs.