Khao Sok national park: 10 experiences that will take your breath away!

Khao Sok National Park is a stunning rainforest sanctuary, home to Cheow Lan Lake and rich wildlife, offering an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers. Often overlooked in favor of Phuket and Krabi, this park features towering limestone cliffs, lush jungles, and rare animals.

In this guide, discover the top activities like rainforest hikes, hidden cave explorations, and wildlife encounters, along with tips to plan your ideal Khao Sok adventure. Khao Sok offers an inspiring and hassle-free experience, perfect for those looking for either relaxation or adventure.

Written by Preetika Narula (Local Expert)Updated on 01-11-2024

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Overview of Khao Sok national park

Established in 1980, Khao Sok National Park covers an area of 739 square kilometers, making it one of the most extensive natural reserves in the country. The dense jungle hosts an incredible diversity of fauna and flora, featuring unique species such as Rafflesia kerrii (Bua Phut), the world's largest flower, and the unique amphibious centipede.

However, the crown jewel of Khao Sok is Cheow Lan Lake, a vast man-made lake created in 1982 following the construction of the Ratchaprapha Dam. Surrounded by towering cliffs, cruising its emerald waters offers a surreal experience, reminiscent of the magnificent Halong Bay in Vietnam.

Khao Sok represents the ultimate adventure for us. Whether enjoying a hike, observing wildlife, or simply relaxing by the water, this national park satisfies all nature lovers.

What is Khao Sok national park schedule in 2024?

Khao Sok National Park is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Seasonal closure of Khao Sok park attractions:

• Bua Phut Km111 Tourist Site (home to the Rafflesia kerrii flower): Closed from May 1 to October 31, 2024.
• Tham Nam Thalu Cave: Closed from June 1 to November 30, 2024.

Khao Sok national park entrance fee

The entrance fee for Khao Sok National Park is THB 300 for adults and THB 150 for children (aged 3-14 or under 140cm), valid for one day. However, if you buy your ticket after 4:30 PM, it will also be valid for the next day.

Foreigners with a Thai work permit can get a discounted rate of THB 20-40. Be sure to check for updates, as prices may change over time.

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Best time to visit

Khao Sok will captivate you in all seasons. However, the best time to visit is from December to April (especially from January to March), during the dry season.

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Although it may still rain sporadically, the trails are more passable, and the lake is perfect for boat rides. From May to October is the rainy season. Although nature turns greener, there are daily downpours that can limit some activities. The rainiest months are September and October.

What to do in Khao Sok?

• Cruising on Cheow Lan Lake & River Tubing 

A traditional long-tail boat trip on Cheow Lan Lake is a must. From the dock, you will sail for about 30 minutes through a magnificent landscape before reaching your floating accommodation.

Khao Sok river tubing is a thrilling adventure, perfect for nature lovers. Starting at Riverside Cottages, guests float downstream on large rubber tubes, passing beneath towering limestone cliffs covered in exotic flora. The ride offers stunning views of massive hardwood trees, orchids, and playful wildlife like monkeys and birds. The best time for tubing is during the monsoon season (June to November), when the river is high and the current strong. 

• Fishing in Khao Sok national park

A fishing trip on Cheow Lan Lake is a serene escape. As you cast your line in the quiet, remote corners of the lake, you’ll be surrounded by stunning jungle scenery. With the chance to catch Barb, Carp, Catfish, Mahseer, and Snakehead, fishing here is both exciting and rewarding.

Early morning and late afternoon are the ideal times, not just for fishing but also for spotting wildlife. You can bring your own gear or hire it, and let local guides enhance your experience with their expert knowledge.

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• Hike in the jungle of Khao Sok national park

Along the way, you'll explore small coves and pass by the majestic limestone rocks Three Brothers. Your guide will also introduce you to the Diamond Cave and its fascinating stalactite and stalagmite formations. A bit of swimming and relaxation in the calm waters of the lake will complete this ideal day.

With well-marked trails starting from the main entrance, Khao Sok National Park is the ideal place for hiking. You'll pass through lush bamboo forests to discover tropical waterfalls when in Bang Hman Trail or Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail. Along the way, keep an eye out for families of monkeys and also magnificent birds.

Ton Kloi Falls surrounded by greenery in Khao Sok. The essential route leads to Ton Kloi Falls, 7 km from the park entrance. For the more adventurous, Khao Sok also has fascinating caves to explore, such as Elephant Cave or Nam Talu Cave. Set off well-equipped with proper footwear and headlamps. 

• Tham Nam Thalu, a Spectacular Cave in Khao Sok National Park

Tham Nam Thalu is a limestone cave located in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand. It is accessible via a 3 km hiking trail from the southwest shore of Chiaw Lan Lake. The cave is 77.6 m long and 10 to 30 m wide. It is bathed by an underground water course that has formed amazing rock formations, such as stalactites, stalagmites, and columns.

Tham Nam Thalu limestone cave The cave is a popular spot for hiking and photography. It is also an important habitat for bats and other wildlife. It is recommended to visit the cave during the dry season, as it partially floods during the rainy season.

• An Unusual Night in the Jungle

Khao Sok is the perfect place to experience camping in the wild. Accompanied by a guide, you will spend one or two nights fully immersed in the jungle. Your guide will teach you how to build a bamboo shelter, find your way, or cook over a fire.

Sleeping under the stars in a hammock, lulled by the sounds of the forest, remains a magical experience. In the morning, wake up to the sound of gibbons before refreshing under a waterfall. Thrilling sensations guaranteed!

Note:  If you're looking to truly experience the essence of Khao Sok, we highly recommend spending a few nights camping deep in the jungle with our experienced guides. You’ll carry only the essentials while leaving behind the comforts of resort life. You'll be deep in nature as it was meant to be - among towering rain trees and untouched wilderness.

Khao Sok Jungle Camping takes you along seldom-used, challenging trails where you'll witness rare birds, lorises, and a variety of fascinating wildlife. Your guide will teach you survival skills like finding water, cooking with bamboo, and navigating this abundant environment. While you’ll be “roughing it,” porters will handle the food, allowing you to fully appreciate the jungle’s wonders. There's nothing quite like spending a night in a hammock between two trees, falling asleep to the sounds of the rainforest, and waking at dawn to the gibbons' morning song.

• Watch the giant flower Bua Phut in Khao Sok

The Bua Phut flower, the largest in the world, blooms just a few days a year in the Khao Sok region. This spectacular flower, devoid of roots and leaves, can reach 80 cm in diameter at full bloom, from December to March. To admire it, you must visit the site during the short blooming period after a few days of rain.

The Bua Phut flower can reach up to 90 cm in diameter and weigh 7 kg. Khao Sok National Park harbors a particularly rich flora and fauna worth discovering. Do not miss this destination on your trip to Thailand to observe the fascinating Bua Phut and enjoy the grandiose landscapes.

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How to get to Khao Sok?

From neighboring towns

Khao Sok is easily accessible from the main tourist localities nearby. From Phuket, Krabi, or Khao Lak, numerous buses and minibuses run daily. Travel times are as follows:

• Phuket - Khao Sok: 3 hours
• Krabi - Khao Sok: 4 hours
• Khao Lak - Khao Sok: 2 hours

You can also opt for a private taxi, more comfortable but slightly more expensive.

• From Surat Thani, public buses will take you to Khao Sok in just 2 hours, making it the ideal starting point if you are coming from the north or east of the country.
• From Bangkok: To get to Khao Sok from Bangkok, the best option is to take a flight to Surat Thani Airport and then continue by bus or taxi. Flights from Bangkok to Surat Thani, which are frequent and affordable, are operated by the most popular airlines such as Nok Air, Thai Smile, Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air...
• You can also travel by overnight train. The journey takes approximately 12 hours; we recommend booking a first-class ticket with a bunk for greater comfort.

Once in Surat Thani, regular buses connect the airport and the bus station with the national park in 2.5 hours.

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Khao Sok or Khao Yai national park? Which one suits you best?

Khao Yai National Park, established in 1962, is Thailand’s first national park and its third-largest, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just a 2.5-hour drive from Bangkok, it’s the perfect escape into a lush jungle teeming with wildlife. Having experienced it myself, I can say it’s a place where the magic of nature surrounds you at every turn.

Whether you're spotting wild elephants, gibbons, or hornbills, or visiting the famous Haew Suwat waterfall, made iconic by The Beach, the experience is truly worth it. To maximize your chances of seeing wildlife, I highly recommend a guided tour - it’s the best way to fully enjoy the park’s wonders.

Khao Sok National Park, on the other hand, covers 739 square kilometers and is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including rare species like the Malayan sun bear, gibbons, and over 300 bird species. While more remote than Khao Yai, Khao Sok’s dramatic limestone cliffs and serene lake make it a haven for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.

So, if you're short on time or prefer easier access, Khao Yai is the ideal choice, with abundant wildlife and convenient proximity to Bangkok. For those seeking more dramatic landscapes and tranquil lake experiences, Khao Sok is perfect, though it requires more travel. Ultimately, your choice depends on your priorities - whether it’s quick access and wildlife in Khao Yai, or breathtaking scenery and serene adventures in Khao Sok.

Where to stay for a nature-filled stay?

Floating Bungalows

Experiencing a night in one of the floating bungalows on the lake is an unforgettable experience. Comfortably settled on your terrace, you will enjoy an impressive panorama of the rocky peaks emerging from the waters. A jump into the lake from your accommodation for an ideal morning swim!

Treehouse Cabins

For a total immersion in nature, opt for a treehouse nestled among the trees of the tropical forest. The Treehouse in Khao Sok, with its infinity pool, offers a charming setting to relax after a day of hiking.

Charming Lodges

Amidst the Jungle Set apart from the National Park, charming accommodations like Khao Sok Bamboo House offer comfortable rooms in a bucolic setting. You will enjoy an excellent restaurant and numerous activities on site, such as bamboo rafting

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Our last words,

Khao Sok is truly one of Thailand’s most stunning natural treasures. Its lush jungle, teeming with wildlife, offers a serene contrast to the bustling southern beaches. The surreal beauty of its emerald-green lake and towering limestone peaks feels like stepping into another world. For those seeking adventure and a change of scenery, Khao Sok National Park is a must on your itinerary. A magical experience in this preserved natural wonder awaits!

Have you been to Khao Sok? What were your favorite activities in the park? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments!

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