If you’re planning an epic trip through Thailand and are searching for something to do between the coasts, Khao Sok National Park is the ideal choice. Nestled between diving in Koh Tao and rock climbing in Krabi, take a few days to explore one of Thailand’s top national parks.
Khao Sok National Park, located in southern Thailand’s Surat Thani province, is celebrated for its lush hiking trails, abundant wildlife, and unique floating bungalows. This spot invites you to trade the crowded tourist scenes for the company of elephants, gibbons, and wild boars. It’s a haven of adventure and natural beauty that should definitely make your itinerary.
Spanning 739 square kilometers, Khao Sok National Park includes the stunning Cheow Lan Lake and houses one of the world’s oldest rainforests, dating back 160 million years. The park is also famed for its majestic karst mountain peaks shaped by heavy monsoon rains over the years. You’ll find plenty of waterfalls and caves accessible via the park’s extensive trails.
Established as a national park in 1980, Khao Sok is divided into two main areas: Khlong Sok town and Cheow Lan Lake, separated by about 65 km. It’s a good idea to factor this distance into your trip planning.
With a few days in Khao Sok, you can indulge in hiking, canoeing, wildlife spotting, rock climbing, tubing, swimming in waterfalls, and exploring caves. It’s easily possible to plan a DIY trip, thanks to the well-marked trails starting from the visitor center. However, hiring a local guide could enhance your experience, as they’re great at pointing out fascinating flora and fauna. Moreover, it’s a park rule that you shouldn’t venture more than 3 km without a guide. You can find numerous local guides ready to lead you through the jungle, with tours ranging from half a day to 10-day treks.
For a truly unique experience, consider a night safari. Guides will take you on a two-hour journey into the jungle, which really comes alive after dark. The park also offers various water-based activities, like canoeing or bamboo rafting on the river, and more relaxed options like tubing.
Khao Sok is a biodiverse paradise with unique flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the Rafflesia flower, one of the largest (and smelliest) flowers in the world, and a variety of mammal, bird, reptile, amphibian, and insect species. While exploring, you might encounter Malaysian sun bears, gibbons, barking deer, white-crowned hornbills, and monitor lizards. You can even shoot your own wildlife videos like a true nature documentarian.
The town surrounding Khao Sok offers plenty to keep you occupied, but don’t miss out on visiting Cheow Lan Lake. Day trips or overnight stays in the floating bungalows are highly recommended. These bungalows provide a tranquil setting amidst forests and mountains, floating on clear, fresh water.
With endless activities like hiking, caving, and wildlife spotting, you can also relish fishing, rock climbing, or zip-lining. After an exciting day, relax in your floating bungalow and soak in the breathtaking views.
Travelers usually reach Khao Sok via Surat Thani, which is the nearest major transport hub, about a two-hour bus ride away. Minibuses are available from Krabi, Phuket, or Khao Lak, and travel agents in popular areas like Koh Samui or Phuket can assist with transportation arrangements.
Plan to stay at least a night or two to fully enjoy Khao Sok. Accommodations range from budget options near the visitor center to mid-level jungle stays, or even more luxurious bungalows and tree houses. Those who prefer the outdoors can try camping or opt for rustic cabins, while the renowned floating bungalows provide a unique stay on the lake.
Khao Sok experiences heavy rainfall from late April to December, peaking between June and September. While the rainy season can make trails slippery and attract leeches, it also keeps the waterfalls flowing. A more pleasant window for visits is from January to mid-April.
An entrance ticket to Khao Sok costs 300 Baht ($9.35) for foreigners, with a student discount pricing tickets at 100 Baht ($3). Tours typically include the entrance fee, so you’ll only need to buy a ticket if visiting independently.
Tours offer a comprehensive experience, including trekking and accommodation in floating bungalows. While independent travel is possible, guided tours can significantly enhance your visit by ensuring you don’t miss key attractions and making the overall experience smoother.
Khao Sok National Park is well worth the visit for its incredible scenery, diverse wildlife, and countless activities. It’s undoubtedly one of Thailand’s must-see destinations.