Located in Southern Thailand between the Andaman and Gulf Coast, Khao Sok National Park is one of Thailand’s most spectacular natural treasures. Covering over 740 square kilometres, Khao Sok is home to some of the world’s oldest evergreen rainforests, dramatic limestone karsts, winding rivers, and the emerald-green expanse of Cheow Larn Lake.
Khao Sok’s location between some of Thailand’s most famous beach destinations makes it an easy addition to any southern Thailand itinerary. For travellers seeking adventure, tranquillity, and a deeper connection to nature, Khao Sok is not to be missed.
What to see and do in Khao Sok
Explore Cheow Larn Lake
The crown jewel of Khao Sok National Park is undoubtedly Cheow Larn Lake, a man-made reservoir surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and scattered with hundreds of islands. The surreal scenery has often been compared to Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay or China’s Guilin, but with far fewer crowds.
(Photo: isarescheewin / Shutterstock)
The best way to experience the lake is on a longtail boat tour. Cruising across its calm waters, you’ll pass dramatic karst peaks rising vertically from the lake and discover hidden lagoons, caves, and jungle-clad islets. Many tours also stop for swimming, kayaking, and short hikes to viewpoints and caves known for their fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations.
For an unforgettable experience, consider staying overnight in one of the lake’s famous floating bungalows, where you can wake up to mist drifting over the water and the sounds of gibbons calling from the jungle.
Ratchaprapha Dam was built in the early 1980s as part of Thailand’s effort to meet the rising energy needs of the south. At the time, tourism in the region was booming, driving a surge in electricity demand. To address this, the government constructed a major hydropower facility at Ratchaprapha. The project involved damming the Khlong Saeng River, which led to the creation of the vast and scenic Cheow Larn Lake, now one of the most striking landscapes in Surat Thani province.
Trekking in the rainforest
Khao Sok is believed to be one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Its dense jungle is home to an astonishing variety of flora and fauna, making trekking here a real highlight. Popular treks include:
- Half-day jungle walks: Easy to moderate trails through bamboo groves, riverside paths, and lowland rainforest.
- Full-day treks: Deeper excursions that may include river crossings, wildlife spotting, and visits to waterfalls like Ton Kloi Waterfall.
- Night safaris: Guided evening walks to spot nocturnal wildlife such as civets, slow lorises, and tree frogs.
If you’re lucky, you might spot elephants, hornbills, or even the rare rafflesia flower, the largest flower in the world, which blooms in Khao Sok between January and March.
Bamboo rafting on the Sok River
For a more relaxed way to enjoy Khao Sok’s landscapes, take a lazy raft ride along the Sok River. You’ll drift past dramatic limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, and small villages while keeping an eye out for monkeys, snakes, and colourful kingfishers. Local guides will steer the raft for you, allowing you to sit back and soak in the scenery.
Wildlife watching
Khao Sok’s rich biodiversity makes it a dream for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to:
- Birds: Over 300 species, including hornbills, kingfishers, and eagles.
- Mammals: Asian elephants, Malayan sun bears, wild boar, and even elusive tigers.
- Reptiles and amphibians: Pythons, monitor lizards, and frogs of every shape and size.
Many lodges and tour companies offer wildlife-focused excursions with experienced guides who can help you spot creatures that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Cultural experiences
While nature is the main draw, Khao Sok also offers opportunities to connect with local culture. Nearby villages often organise cooking classes, homestays, and handicraft workshops where you can learn about traditional life in Southern Thailand.
Where to stay in Khao Sok
Accommodation in and around Khao Sok ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury jungle retreats. Your choice depends on the type of experience you’re seeking.
Spending a night on Cheow Larn Lake is a must for many visitors. Options range from simple raft houses with basic facilities to more comfortable floating resorts with private bathrooms and electricity. Regardless of the level of comfort, the experience of waking up in this magical setting is priceless.
500Rai Floating Resort
Elephant Hills Lake Camp
The small village of Khlong Sok is easy to reach by public transport. Here you’ll find a mix of eco-lodges, boutique resorts, and family-run guesthouses set amidst jungle scenery.
Anurak Community Lodge
For a more authentic cultural connection, you can stay in villages through community-run programs. These homestays offer home-cooked meals, insights into local traditions, and the chance to support the local economy directly.
Khao Sok Homestay with Andaman Discoveries
How to get to Khao Sok
Khao Sok National Park is accessible from several major destinations. The Khao Sok National Park headquarters and visitor centre are located just off Highway 401. This is the main road which connects Surat Thani and the Gulf Coast to the east with Takua Pa and the Andaman Coast to the west. For those arriving by public transport, buses and minivans typically stop on Highway 401 near the small village of Khlong Sok. Check with your accommodation to see whether they will pick you up from there.
By Air
The nearest airports are:
- Surat Thani Airport (URT) – about 1.5 hours by car. A taxi will cost between 1,500 to 2,500 Baht.
- Krabi Airport (KBV) – about 2.5 hours by car.
- Phuket Airport (HKT) – about 3 hours by car.
By Bus
There are regular buses and minivans to Khao Sok from:
- Surat Thani (2 hours)
- Krabi (3 hours)
- Phuket (3–4 hours)
- Khao Lak (1.5–2 hours)
By Train
If you’re coming from Bangkok, you can take an overnight train to Surat Thani railway station, then continue by bus or minivan to Khao Sok.
Tips for Visiting Khao Sok
- Best time to visit: The dry season (December–April) offers the most comfortable weather for trekking and lake tours, but any time of the year can be a good time to visit.
- What to pack: Lightweight clothing, sturdy shoes for hiking, insect repellent, rain gear, and a flashlight for night safaris.
- Guides and tours: Hiring a guide is highly recommended for trekking and wildlife spotting, as they know the trails and increase your chances of seeing animals.
- Responsible travel: Stick to marked trails, avoid single-use plastics, and support eco-friendly lodges and community-run initiatives.
