Khao Sok, also known as Thailand’s “terrestrial Halong Bay,” lies hidden amidst towering limestone mountains and a vast expanse of pristine rainforest. This picturesque paradise paints a picture of untamed wilderness, captivating visitors with its enchanting beauty.
Stepping into an earthly paradise, Khao Sok leaves one awestruck by the wonders of nature’s artistry. Mountains rise and fall like colossal waves, embracing the verdant rainforest, creating a panorama of grandeur and magnificence. The ancient forest whispers with rustling leaves, the gentle murmur of flowing streams, and the melodious chorus of birdsong, forming an enchanting symphony of nature. Sunbeams filter through the canopy of ancient trees, casting dappled patterns of light that dance upon the forest floor.
Khao Sok’s beauty extends beyond its untamed wilderness, encompassing a rich tapestry of ecosystems. It serves as a haven for a myriad of rare and precious flora and fauna, contributing to a vibrant and lively natural spectacle. As you venture through the pristine rainforest, you might encounter playful monkeys swinging from the branches, gentle elephants grazing peacefully, or flocks of birds soaring through the cerulean sky.
Khao Sok beckons nature enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. Engage in thrilling activities like trekking, kayaking, and cave exploration, or simply unwind by the lake’s tranquil shores, basking in the fresh air and breathtaking scenery.
THE PERFECT TIME TO VISIT KHAO SOK
The dry season, from November to April, is the ideal time to immerse yourself in the untamed grandeur of Khao Sok. The fresh, cool air, free from any stifling heat or gloom, will wash away all your worries and anxieties. The melodious symphony of birdsong and the gentle murmur of flowing streams will fill you with an extraordinary sense of peace and tranquility.
However, Khao Sok also possesses a unique beauty during the rainy season, which lasts from May to November. Sudden downpours refresh the pristine rainforest, transforming waterfalls into majestic cascades of white silk. The rainy season is also an excellent time to explore Khao Sok’s diverse ecosystem, as a myriad of rare and precious flora and fauna emerge, creating a vibrant and lively natural spectacle.
Whether it’s the dry or rainy season, Khao Sok always welcomes visitors with its captivating beauty. Come to Khao Sok to experience the magical harmony between time and nature, to find peace of mind, and to rekindle your adventurous spirit.
GETTING TO KHAO SOK
There are various transportation options available to reach Khao Sok, each offering a unique travel experience.
From the US, you can fly directly to Surat Thani or Phuket, with ticket prices ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 (USD) and an average flight time of approximately 20 hours (ticket prices may vary depending on the time of year, airline, and booking time). From there, you can travel to Khao Sok by bus, taxi, or private car.
Buses are the most economical option, with fares starting at just $10-$15 per trip. However, the travel time is quite long, around 4-5 hours. Taxis are a faster and more convenient choice, with fares ranging from $75-$100 per trip. And if you want to explore Khao Sok your own way, renting a private car is an excellent option, with prices starting at $40-$75 per day.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, your journey to Khao Sok promises to be an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness, find peace of mind, and rekindle your adventurous spirit.
MUST-VISIT ATTRACTIONS IN KHAO SOK
Cheow Lan Lake: Nestled amidst the lush greenery, Cheow Lan Lake is Thailand’s largest artificial lake, spanning an impressive 185 square kilometers. Embark on a kayaking adventure, paddle through the serene waters on a bamboo raft, try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relax on a small wooden boat, soaking in the breathtaking scenery and breathing in the fresh air. Entrance fee for Cheow Lan Lake: approximately 200 Baht/person. Early morning or late afternoon is the ideal time to visit Cheow Lan Lake as the weather is cooler and less sunny.
Khao Sok National Park: Located about 15 kilometers from Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Sok National Park is a haven for biodiversity, home to over 800 animal species and 1,500 rare plant species. Immerse yourself in the wilderness and marvel at nature’s wonders by participating in trekking activities, hiking trails, cave exploration, or birdwatching. Entrance fee for Khao Sok National Park: approximately 300 Baht/person. Early morning or late afternoon is the ideal time to visit Khao Sok National Park as the weather is cooler and less sunny.
Khao Pra Bang Khram Cave: Approximately 20 kilometers from Cheow Lan Lake, Khao Pra Bang Khram Cave is a mesmerizing limestone cave adorned with sparkling stalactites and stalagmites, creating a magical and scintillating ambiance. Embark on a cave tour to explore its majestic interior and learn about the cave’s formation history. Entrance fee for Khao Pra Bang Khram Cave: approximately 100 Baht/person. Afternoon is the ideal time to visit Khao Pra Bang Khram Cave as natural light allows visitors to easily admire the beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites.
Local Villages: Scattered throughout the Khao Sok region, local villages offer a glimpse into the culture, customs, and daily lives of the indigenous people. Engage in activities like learning to cook traditional dishes, weaving traditional brocades, or participating in local festivals to experience the unique indigenous culture. Entrance fee for local villages: approximately 50 Baht/person. Morning or early evening is the ideal time to visit local villages as this is when the villagers are engaged in their daily activities.
Khao Sok beckons nature enthusiasts, culture seekers, and those seeking tranquility. Discover the majestic mountains, caves, waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the harmonious symphony of birdsong and the gentle murmur of flowing streams.
HOTELS WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS IN KHAO SOK
Cheow Lan Lake Resort: Nestled on the shores of the idyllic Cheow Lan Lake, approximately 15 kilometers from the heart of Khao Sok, Cheow Lan Lake Resort boasts stunning views of the lake and the majestic limestone mountains. The resort features 88 bungalow rooms designed in traditional Thai style, offering guests a sense of closeness to nature. Each room is equipped with modern amenities to cater to every traveler’s need.
Room Type: Bungalow Price: Ranges from 150-300 USD/night
The Belum Rainforest Resort: Tucked away amidst the pristine rainforest, approximately 20 kilometers from Khao Sok’s center, The Belum Rainforest Resort offers an immersive experience in the heart of the wilderness. The resort comprises 40 bungalows designed in a modern and luxurious style, complete with all the necessary amenities. Guests can embark on trekking adventures, explore caves, paddle kayaks, or simply relax by the pool, basking in the fresh air and the captivating scenery.
Room Type: Bungalow Price: Ranges from 150-350 USD/night
Khao Sok Paradise Resort: Perched atop a hill, approximately 10 kilometers from Khao Sok’s center, Khao Sok Paradise Resort features an infinity pool with breathtaking views of the lush valley. The resort boasts 60 rooms designed in a modern and elegant style, equipped with all the modern conveniences. Guests can indulge in activities like swimming in the pool, soaking in natural hot springs, enjoying a massage, or embarking on tours to explore Khao Sok’s natural wonders.
Room Type: Standard rooms, suites, villas Price: Ranges from 150-250 USD/night
Malulee KhaoSok Resort: Located approximately 5 kilometers from Khao Sok’s center, Malulee KhaoSok Resort offers a budget-friendly accommodation option. The resort features 50 rooms designed in a simple yet comfortable style. Guests can enjoy activities like swimming in the pool, hiking, trekking, or joining tours to explore Khao Sok’s natural beauty.
Room Type: Standard rooms, family rooms Price: Ranges from 75-150 USD/night
Magical Mountain View Resort: Situated approximately 10 kilometers from Khao Sok’s center, Magical Mountain View Resort is a newly built establishment with a modern and luxurious ambiance. The resort features 80 rooms designed with stunning views of the majestic mountains. Guests can indulge in activities like swimming in the pool, soaking in natural hot springs, enjoying a massage, or joining tours to explore Khao Sok’s natural wonders.
KHAO SOK: A CULINARY PARADISE AMIDST THE JUNGLE
Khao Sok cuisine is a unique symphony of flavors, blending spicy, tangy, and sweet notes to create unforgettable culinary experiences for visitors. Here are some of Khao Sok’s signature dishes that you shouldn’t miss:
Gaeng Som – A Spicy and Sour Awakening: This renowned Thai sour curry is prepared with fresh fish, tamarind, chili peppers, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and other spices. The broth is tangy, spicy, and infused with the sweetness of the fish, creating a flavor that stimulates the taste buds and awakens the senses. This dish is often served with hot steamed rice and fresh vegetables for a complete and nutritious meal. Price: Ranges from 5-7 USD/portion
Tom Kha Kai – A Delicate and Warming Chicken Soup: This chicken soup is cooked with coconut milk, mushrooms, chili peppers, and signature Thai spices. The broth is rich, fragrant with lemongrass and chili, and infused with the sweetness of chicken and mushrooms, creating a delicate and warming flavor. This dish is often served with rice or vermicelli noodles and is perfect for enjoying on chilly days. Price: Ranges from 4-6 USD/portion
Pad Thai – Thailand’s National Stir-Fried Noodle Dish: This iconic Thai dish is made with rice noodles, shrimp, eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, scallions, roasted peanuts, and a signature Pad Thai sauce. The chewy noodles are coated in the sweet and sour sauce, complemented by the savory richness of the eggs and peanuts, creating an irresistible flavor. This dish is often served with lime, chili peppers, and bean sprouts, making it popular among all ages, especially children. Price: Ranges from 3-5 USD/portion
Som Tam – A Refreshing Green Papaya Salad: This green papaya salad is prepared with shredded green papaya, chili peppers, lime, garlic, dried fish, and other Thai spices. The dish is tangy, spicy, and crunchy, stimulating the taste buds and helping to cleanse the palate. Som Tam is often served with rice or vermicelli noodles and is perfect as an appetizer or side dish. Price: Ranges from 2-4 USD/portion
Khao Pad – Flavorful and Easy Fried Rice: This simple yet flavorful fried rice dish is made with white rice, eggs, scallions, meat or seafood, and Thai spices. The rice grains are fluffy and separated, coated in the savory richness of the eggs, the sweet and salty notes of the meat or seafood, and the aroma of spices, creating an irresistible flavor. This dish is often served with cucumbers, tomatoes, and chili peppers, making it suitable for any meal of the day. Price: Ranges from 3-5 USD/portion
RESTAURANTS IN KHAO SOK TO VISIT
Khao Sok Thai Food – Traditional Flavors in Every Dish: Located in the heart of Khao Sok, Khao Sok Thai Food is the ideal destination for savoring authentic Thai cuisine with rich and flavorful dishes. The restaurant boasts a cozy and rustic ambiance, reflecting the essence of Thai culture.
Signature Dishes: Tom Yum Goong, Pad Thai, Som Tam, Khao Pad, Gaeng Som
Price Range: Mid-range, averaging 3-5 USD/dish
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Category: Mid-range
Baan Rim Nam – Where Nature and Cuisine Harmonize: Nestled on the shores of the idyllic Cheow Lan Lake, Baan Rim Nam boasts a prime location, offering diners breathtaking natural scenery while enjoying their meals. The restaurant features a spacious and airy dining area with panoramic views of the emerald lake and majestic mountains.
Signature Dishes: Salt and Pepper Grilled Snakehead Fish, Thai Hot Pot, Grilled Sardine Salad, Seafood Stir-Fry, Bamboo Sticky Rice
Price Range: Mid-range to upscale, averaging 5-7 USD/dish
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Category: Mid-range to upscale
Jungle Kitchen – Unveiling the Flavors of the Jungle: Hidden amidst the pristine rainforest, Jungle Kitchen offers visitors a unique culinary experience with dishes prepared using fresh local ingredients. The restaurant features an open-air dining area, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating a sense of closeness and relaxation.
Signature Dishes: Lemongrass Chili Grilled Chicken, Wild Vegetable Hot Pot, Braised Snakehead Fish in Clay Pot, Stir-Fried Minced Pork
Price Range: Mid-range, averaging 4-6 USD/dish
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Category: Mid-range
To have a perfect Khao Sok trip, visitors should keep in mind the following tips from the Wanderlust Tips editorial team. Stay for at least 3 days and 2 nights. This is the ideal amount of time to fully explore Khao Sok. With this amount of time, you can participate in activities such as trekking, kayaking, cave exploring, swimming in the pool, enjoying local cuisine, and experiencing the local culture.
Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, insect repellent, and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Don’t forget to book your hotel and plane tickets in advance, especially during the high season (December to February and July to August). Dress modestly when visiting temples and local villages. Respect the culture and customs of the local people and keep the environment clean. In addition, you can also: Buy a local SIM card so you can access the internet and communicate easily. Bring cash as some places do not accept credit cards. Learn a few basic Thai phrases to communicate with the locals.