What is Khao Sok National Park?
Khao Sok National Park is a magnificent rainforest with various plant and animal species. It is arguably the most sought-after mainland national park destination in the region. What sets Khao Sok apart is its convenient accessibility via public transportation, making it a must-see for tourists traveling between Phuket and Ko Samui.
The park’s allure lies in its captivating features, including the stunning Cheow Lan Lake, diverse wildlife, iconic limestone hills, picturesque waterfalls, charming raft houses floating on the lake, gorgeous trails, enchanting caves, and meandering rivers.
Established in 1980 by The Royal Forest Department, Khao Sok became Thailand’s 22nd national park. Encompassing a sprawling land area of 739 square kilometers, it spans the Amphoe Phanom District and Ban Takhun District in Surat Thani province. The park proudly boasts the Cheow Lan Reservoir within its borders, formed by the construction of the Ratchaprapha Dam in 1987.
Khao Sok is an integral part of the Khlong Saeng – Khao Sok Forest Complex, an expansive network comprising 12 protected sites spanning 5,316 square kilometers. This complex also encompasses certain offshore islands in the Andaman Sea. There are also mountains within the Phuket Range, stretching northward from Phuket Island to Ranong Province.
Where is Khao Sok National Park?
Situated on the mainland, Khao Sok is in Surat Thani province, a prime location easily reached from Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, and Koh Samui. This national park is accessible by public transportation, making it a must-visit stop for numerous tourists traveling between Phuket and Ko Samui.
Its allure as a vacation destination is undeniable, offering unforgettable experiences like up-close elephant encounters, immersive jungle trekking, and exhilarating canoeing. Surat Thani, Krabi, Ao Nang, Phuket, Khao Lak, Ko Lanta, and Koh Samui are the nearest towns, providing convenient access to the park’s wonders.
The admission prices for Khao Sok National Park are 200 baht (~ 6 USD) for adults and 100 baht (~ 3 USD) for children aged 3 to 14.
Thai citizens are charged 40 baht (~ 1.50 USD) for adults and 20 baht (~ 0.75 USD) for children.
These fees allow multiple-day access to the park only for those staying within its premises, either by camping or at raft houses on the lake. Khao Sok National Park is open to visitors all year, opening at 6 AM and closing at 6 PM daily. Also, visitors can embark on a night safari by entering the park in the evening accompanied by a guide.
Why should you go to Khao Sok National Park?
Khao Sok National Park, situated in Southern Thailand, stands out as a captivating and diverse natural paradise. Renowned as Thailand’s largest protected park, it encompasses a vast expanse of trails, exhilarating outdoor activities, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
Many wildlife species thrive within Khao Sok, such as gibbon and rhesus macaque monkeys, Asian elephants, and elusive leopards. The park also boasts a remarkable avian population, with over 300 bird species, including the magnificent great hornbill.
The park encompasses the charming village of Khao Sok and features the enchanting Cheow Lan Lake, an artificial reservoir. This majestic lake is encircled by rugged limestone mountains and cliffs, among which the iconic “Three Brothers” formation reigns supreme, captivating visitors with its picturesque allure. The remarkable scenery and diversified wildlife make Khao Sok a worthwhile trip. Here is why you must have Khao Sok on your Thailand itinerary:
• Cheow Lan Lake (Khao Sok Lake)
Cheow Lan Lake, also known as Khao Sok Lake or Ratchaprapha Dam Reservoir, is the most captivating locale in the national park, offering a wealth of fascinating attractions and abundant wildlife-watching opportunities.
With over 100 limestone outcrops and six tributary regions—namely Klong Long, Klong Ka, Klong Pey, Klong Yee, Khlong Saeng, and Khlong Mon (“Khlong” means canal in Thai)—the lake offers a diverse and captivating landscape. However, certain lake areas are within the Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary.
To reach the lake, buses or minivans can be taken to Ban Ta Khun village, situated to the east. From Ban Ta Khun, arrangements can be made for songthaews that will take you directly to the lake, located at the junction of the road leading to the lake.
Raft houses and floating bungalows are dotted across the lake, making convenient bases to explore caves, viewpoints, limestone hills, and captivating trails. A definite must-do experience is kayaking amidst the morning mist, surrounded by majestic limestone hills.
To access the raft houses and attractions along the lake, you will take long-tail boats departing from Cheow Lan Lake Pier, also known as Ratchaprapha Pier. The cost of a round trip on a long-tail boat, accommodating up to 10 passengers, to various spots on the lake ranges from 1,500 Baht to 4,000 Baht.
• Khlong Long
Khlong Long, situated on the northeast side of Cheow Lan Lake, is widely renowned as the most popular tributary within the area. It is about 15-16 km from Cheow Lan Lake Pier. This tributary boasts several remarkable attractions, including limestone hills, a captivating cave, and a breathtaking viewpoint accessible via a 2.5-hour hike through the surrounding jungle.
Khlong Long is home to five exceptional raft houses: Chiew Lan Raft House, Plern Prai Raft House, Sai Chol Raft House, Prai Wan, and Panvaree Raft House. Compared to other raft houses on the lake, Khlong Long’s raft houses’ quality of accommodations and facilities far surpasses expectations.
• Khlong Ka
On the south side of the lake, about 15 km away from Cheow Lan Lake Pier, you’ll find Khlong Ka. This tributary boasts one of the most magnificent caves within the park, offering a breathtaking view of a cluster of limestone hills. To the south, splendid trails wind through majestic hills. While sightings are infrequent, there have been reports of tapirs inhabiting this area. Within this lake section, you’ll discover two raft houses: Klong Ka and Nang Prai.
• Khlong Pey
On the lake’s southwestern tip, about 20 km from Cheow Lan Lake Pier, you’ll find Ton Toey Raft house, the lake’s inaugural ranger station. From this tributary, a few kilometers to the west, you’ll discover a trailhead that leads to Nam Talu Cave—a partially circular trail spanning 4 km. Also, a separate trail stretches 6.5 km to the south, connecting you directly to the main road 401 in the southern direction.
• Khlong Yee
Khlong Yee is on the lake’s western shore, about 27 km from Ratchaprapha Dam. The primary attractions include guided kayak tours, wildlife observation, hiking to the Krai Son viewpoint, and trekking to a waterfall during the rainy seasons. The raft houses available in this vicinity include Krai Son Raft House, 500 Rai Khao Sok Floating Resort, Tree Tops Floating Bungalows, and Keeree Warin Raft House.
• Khlong Saeng
Located on the northwest side of the lake within the Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary, this tributary is situated approximately 26 km away from Ratchaprapha Dam. The Khlong Saeng River, once the widest river in Thailand, was the primary water source for the lake until the dam was constructed. To access the area, you must obtain special permission from the Khao Sok National Park headquarters and pay an additional fee for the wildlife sanctuary.
This remote section of the lake offers an ideal setting for hiking and is renowned as the best spot for observing wildlife. It is possible to embark on a guided hike with park rangers into the wildlife sanctuary, where you can explore a waterfall and remnants of old mines from the 1960s.
This adventure provides opportunities to encounter common animals such as gibbons and deer. At the same time, with some luck, you may even spot more exciting species like elephants, gaurs, mainland serows, great argus, and many others. The sanctuary is also home to tapirs, clouded leopards, and various bear species. The only available lodging in this area is the Klong Saeng Raft House, owned by the national park. However, its quality is subpar.
• Khlong Mon
North of the lake, you’ll find Khlong Mon, about 24 km from Cheow Lan Lake Pier. This region is characterized by its lofty hills and rugged valleys, making it a perfect habitat for observing hornbills, eagles, and other wildlife species.
For those seeking an exhilarating experience, a thrilling trail spanning almost 3 km cuts through the dense jungle and leads to the western reaches of the Khlong Saeng tributary. Also, several shorter trails are available on the northern side of the tributary.
Regarding accommodation, Tam Gia is the sole raft house in the area and is owned by the national park.
• Visitor Center area and campsite
The national park’s visitor center is adjacent to the headquarters. In proximity to the visitor center, you’ll find a range of amenities, including a campsite, basic toilet and shower facilities, a small canteen or café, a few accommodations, and other related buildings.
From the visitor center area, there are two trails to explore. The first trail, known as the Sip-et Chan Waterfall trail, stretches northward and is partially circular. The second trail leads westward, leading you to various other captivating waterfalls.
Should you choose to camp, rental tents are available, accommodating two people for 250 baht (about 7 USD) or four people for 300 baht (~8 USD). Additional accessories can be obtained per person, with pillows priced at 10 baht (~0.30 USD), blankets at 10 baht (~0.30 USD), sleeping bags at 30 baht (~0.90 USD), and sheets at 20 baht (~0.50 USD). Tents and accessories can be arranged accordingly upon arrival at the visitor center.
• Breathtaking waterfalls
Most waterfalls are easily accessible by following the trails from the Khao Sok headquarters and at a few locations near the main road 401 to the south of the park. Here are the must-see waterfalls:
Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail
The main trail of the national park is a 7 km long path that runs alongside the Sok River. The initial 2.9 km of the trail leads to a checkpoint monitored by rangers, which can be traversed without needing a guide.
This section resembles a narrow dirt road and features two smaller waterfalls, a swimming spot, and various smaller paths leading down to the river.
Beyond the ranger station, the remaining 4 km of the trail requires a guide. This portion takes you through a genuine jungle trail, passing numerous waterfalls, a swimming spot, and a gorge, ending at Ton Kloi Waterfall.
The Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail features a magnificent waterfall standing at a height of 20 meters. Positioned about 2.8 km from the visitor center, the waterfall is on the opposite bank of the Klong Sok River. Accessing it is a breeze—traverse the rocks to reach the other side.
Wang Yao Pool
If you’re a traveler seeking a delightful immersion in nature, look no further than Wang Yao Pool. This idyllic destination awaits just 3 km away from the visitor center along the enchanting Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail.
Bang Hua Rat Waterfall
The renowned Bang Hua Rat Waterfall has gained popularity for its thrilling rafting opportunities. Situated 3 km from the visitor center along the Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail, this captivating waterfall features rapid waters that add to the excitement.
Bang Liap Nam Waterfall
Located 4.5 km from the visitor center on Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail, Bang Liap Nam Waterfall awaits adventurers with a serene walk along the river amidst bamboo groves and towering giant trees. This picturesque waterfall may be small, but its charm and beauty are bound to captivate all who venture to explore it.
Than Sawan Waterfall
Than Sawan Waterfall, situated along a tributary of the Sok River, can be reached via a slippery side trail that can be pretty dangerous during the rainy season. The waterfall is 6 km from the visitor center along the Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail.
Tang Nam Gorge
Tang Nam Gorge, situated 6 km from the Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail headquarters, is a picturesque spot where the Khlong Sok River gracefully flows between cliffs. It offers a delightful swimming experience for visitors.
Ton Kloi Waterfall
About 7 km from the visitor center, the one-level waterfall offers year-round enchantment. It is also about 1 km from Tang Nam Gorge along the Ton Kloi Waterfall Trail.
Sip Et Chan Waterfall
The 11-tiered waterfall can be reached by following a trail that stretches almost 4 kilometers, starting from the northern side of the campsite. Initially, the trail consists of a wooden boardwalk where tourists can stroll.
However, a guide is required once you reach a fork in the trail approximately 400-500 meters to the north. This specific path is less frequently traveled than the main western trail, thus increasing the chances of spotting various mammals and birds. Along this trail, you may encounter various bird species, including the majestic Great Hornbill, the striking Bamboo Woodpecker, the vibrant Orange-breasted Trogon, the colorful Banded Pitta, and the distinctive Black-and-yellow Broadbill.
San Yang Roi Viewpoint
The viewpoint is on the western side of the national park, along the main road 401 between Surat Thani and Takuapa, precisely at km 113, situated 5.5 km west of Khao Sok Village.
Mae Yai Waterfall
On the right-hand side, just a few hundred meters after San Yang Viewpoint is an impressive single-tier waterfall that reaches a height of 30 meters. The trail leading to this natural wonder begins at an unmarked spot along the road, but you’ll easily spot it by the open space available for parking cars and motorcycles.
While the waterfall’s allure may be limited during the dry season, it truly comes to life and reveals its full splendor during the rainy season. Therefore, it is highly recommended to visit during this time to experience its true beauty.
• Khlong Pae Nature Trail
Located about 10-12 km east of Khao Sok Village, specifically at km 99, lies a trail spanning 6.5 km. This trail leads to the picturesque Cheow Lan Lake and is best experienced with the assistance of a guide. Embarking on this trail presents an opportunity to complement your journey with a boat trip to explore the captivating caves and other attractions near the lake, culminating in a visit to the stunning Cheow Lan Lake.
• Bang Hman Trail
This trail offers an intriguing adventure that spans a considerable distance, presenting a formidable challenge for physically fit people. It entices with its captivating allure. Initially, the trail ascends steeply for approximately 800 meters until it encounters a serene creek.
Upon reaching the creek, hikers will proceed for a brief stretch alongside the flowing stream, leading them into a mesmerizing 400-meter-long cave with an exit at the opposite end. Emerging from the cave, the trail continues for an additional 7 km before concluding at the ranger station. On the way, explorers can marvel at a majestic waterfall standing tall at 70 meters. Completing the entire trail takes around 3-4 hours.
It is essential to have a ranger or guide accompany you. Entrance into the cave is prohibited if there is a prediction of rain. During rainfall, the water level inside the cave rises rapidly, reaching several meters with dangerously strong currents. That is why the cave passage is the sole route to return to the ranger station and cannot be bypassed.
In addition to its challenging nature, this trail offers the opportunity to discover beautiful Rafflesia flowers. The surrounding area is teeming with butterflies and reptiles, making it an excellent location for observing these creatures.
You may even glimpse various hornbill species with some luck, as great hornbills commonly frequent the area. While gaurs leave noticeable footprints along the trail, sighting one is a rarity. Inside the cave, you may encounter different species of frogs and a few types of bats.
• Nam Talu Cave
The cave, situated close to Ranger Station 4 on the Klong Pey tributary, spans an impressive length of 500 meters. Its entrance boasts a substantial width, allowing water to flow freely within. Positioned approximately 4 kilometers from the lake, this cavern poses considerable danger during rainy periods.
As a precaution, guides refrain from leading visitors through this treacherous cave if rain is predicted. Access to the cave is limited to the period between December 14th and the end of May, although these dates vary yearly.
• Diamond Cave
Situated in the Klong Ka tributary of Cheow Lan, south of the reservoir, approximately 18 km from the main pier, lies a remarkable cave known as Phra Kay Petch Cave. Renowned for its stunning stalagmites and stalactites, this cave is considered one of the finest in the park and serves as a habitat for bats.
For those seeking accommodation nearby, the closest raft houses are Klong Ka, merely 2 km away, and Nang Prai, 4.5 km from the cave. It is advisable to bring flashlights when visiting this cave.
• Pakarang Cave
Situated along the shores of a smaller lake to the north of the Klong Long tributary lies a cave renowned for its popularity. Within this cave, fascinating coral fossils have been discovered, adding to its allure. Moreover, it holds historical significance as it was a refuge for communist insurgents in bygone eras.
When is the best time to visit Khao Sok National Park?
Khao Sok boasts a predominantly rainforest environment enveloped in the perpetual humidity and warmth of both day and night. It epitomizes a quintessential tropical climate, characterized by three distinct seasons: the dry season, hot season, and wet season or monsoon.
During the monsoon, expect heavy rainfall. The best time to explore Khao Sok National Park is the dry season (December to April).
Nevertheless, the rainy season (June to October) is just as endearing. Nature thrives in its utmost lushness, teeming with a myriad of wildlife. The waterfalls cascade with bountiful water, and the rivers surge with full force. Consequently, any time of the year presents an opportunity to visit Khao Sok National Park, offering an exceptional experience with abundant activities to relish.
How to get to Khao Sok National Park
To easily access Khao Sok, your best options are Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, or Surat Thani. If you’re staying at a hotel, check if they offer a pickup service from the bus stop.
• By Bus or Minivan
In Khlong Sok village, located two kilometers from the park headquarters, public buses and minivans conveniently stop on both sides of Highway 401. Taxis are available from there to transport you to a resort in the village, with a minimum fare of 100 baht (~ 3 USD).
However, it’s also quite feasible to walk to the village without much difficulty. Between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, buses move between Surat Thani and Takua Pa, stopping at Khlong Sok village. The fare back to Surat Thani is 120 baht (~ 3.50 USD), while it costs 100 baht (~ 3 USD) to reach Takua Pa.
Minivans run hourly between Surat Thani and Khao Lak, with drop-offs at Khlong Sok village. The fare is 140 baht (~ 4 USD), and the vans make stops at the Phun Phin train station and the long-distance bus station to Talad Kaset 2 Station in downtown Surat Thani.
Minivans that travel in a loop between Khao Lak, Phang Nga, and Krabi town also pass through Khlong Sok village. They make stops every two hours from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with fares ranging from 200 to 300 baht (~6 to 8 USD). There’s an additional direct minivan to Krabi town at 8:00 AM, which provides a faster route.
6 Responses
I am planning my first trip to Thailand, and after reading this post, I will definitely be adding Khao Sok National Park to my list of must see places. With the beautiful lakes, and abundance of things to do and see, I can understand why it is highly recommended for anyone travelling between Phuket and Ko Samui.
I would love to stay in a raft house, and did click on the link to explore the options on Expedia, where I have noticed several very affordable options. With numerous beautiful waterfalls, and abundance of wildlife including elephants, and delicious Thai food, I will plan to spend at least a week in the Khao Sok National Park to do it justice.
I have bookmarked your site to continue my holiday planning.
Hi LineCowley,
Thank you so much for your enthusiastic response and bookmarking my site! I’m thrilled that my post has inspired you to include Khao Sok National Park in your Thailand itinerary!
Staying in a raft house is indeed a unique and memorable experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the park. Expedia is a great resource for booking hotels, flights, and activities, all in one place.
While GetYourGuide.com specializes in activities, the abundance of options can be overwhelming. I recommend selecting activities with high-rated reviews for a satisfying experience.
You’re absolutely right about the abundance of things to do and see there, from exploring waterfalls to spotting wildlife like elephants. A week in Khao Sok sounds like the perfect way to enjoy all it has to offer.
I’m glad to be a part of your holiday planning journey and hope my site continues to provide you with helpful insights. If you have any questions or need further assistance as you plan your trip, don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you an incredible adventure in Thailand, and thank you very much again! (:
Benjamas
Wow, such a beautiful read! Your descriptions and images have put in me a longing to travel there. Sometimes, it seems just a dream though. I live vicariously through you and these pictures. How does a person even begin to plan a trip from the USA to Thailand. I am sure I would need a travel planner to assist me.
Hi Scott,
Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m glad to hear that you enjoy reading my article!
Khao Sok National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here’s a little guide to help you plan your trip from the USA:
Flights: The nearest international airport to Khao Sok is Phuket International Airport (HKT). You can find direct flights from major US cities to Phuket.Visa: Make sure to check Thailand’s visa requirements for US citizens. Most tourists can get a visa exemption for up to 30 days.Accommodation: Khao Sok offers a range of accommodation options, from rustic jungle bungalows to luxury eco-resorts. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.Transportation: From Phuket Airport, you can arrange a private transfer or take a bus to Khao Sok. The journey takes around 2-3 hours, offering scenic views of southern Thailand.Activities: Once you’re in Khao Sok, immerse yourself in the park’s breathtaking beauty. Explore lush rainforests, kayak through emerald-green lakes, trek to hidden waterfalls, and embark on unforgettable wildlife spotting adventures.
Thailand is a beautiful and vibrant country with so much to offer, and I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time exploring it! Thank you again.
Benjamas
Hello Benjamas , Such a sweet read , I was there in 2012 and I enjoyed every little corner of that national park, Such a great memory I have from all that also these amazing islands … so good . I also ate the best fruits there , also elephant ride etc etc. Thank you for reminding me of the beauty there . For me it is a must visit at least once in the life time. Thank you
Hello Ela, thank you very much for visiting my website! Also, I am glad you enjoyed reading my articles. It is great to hear that you visited and enjoyed Khao Sok National Park!
Many National Parks in Thailand are so beautiful. Thai fruits are so good and exotic. Elephant ride is fun too. There are so many fun activities to do there. I agree it is a must visit place at least once in a life time! Thank you so much again for sharing!