About Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park is a protected rainforest reserve in Phanom District, Surat Thani Province, southern Thailand. Established in 1980, it covers about 739 square kilometres of ancient evergreen forest, dramatic limestone karst mountains and the artificial Cheow Lan Lake formed by Ratchaprapha Dam. It is notable for its biodiversity, including gibbons, elephants, hornbills and the rare Rafflesia kerrii, and for its extensive network of hiking trails and lake-based activities.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect dense ancient rainforest with towering limestone karst cliffs, the emerald Cheow Lan Lake with floating raft houses, jungle trails, caves and waterfalls. The park offers guided treks, longtail boat tours on the lake, kayaking, wildlife and birdwatching, and overnight stays in park bungalows, campsites or lake raft houses. Facilities are concentrated at the headquarters and lake pier areas.
Key highlights
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Cheow Lan Lake with limestone karst islands and floating raft houses
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Ancient evergreen rainforest with diverse wildlife including gibbons, elephants and hornbills
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Rafflesia kerrii, one of the world's largest flowers, blooming seasonally
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Extensive hiking trails to waterfalls, viewpoints and caves such as Nam Talu Cave
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Longtail boat and kayak tours on Cheow Lan Lake
History of Khao Sok National Park
Established on 22 December 1980 as Thailand's 22nd national park, covering approximately 739 sq km. The park includes remnants of ancient rainforest older than the Amazon. Cheow Lan Lake was created in 1982 by the construction of Ratchaprapha Dam on the Khlong Saeng River for hydroelectric power and flood control.
Route
| By air | Fly to Surat Thani Airport, then continue by road (about 1.5-2 hours) to the park |
|---|---|
| By train |