Khao Sok National Park – Thailand’s Ancient Rainforest
Khao Sok National Park is one of the oldest rainforests in the world – older than the Amazon. It covers over 700 square kilometres of dense jungle, limestone mountains, waterfalls, and the famous Cheow Lan Lake. Located about 90 minutes north of Phang Nga town, it is a popular day trip or overnight stay for travellers visiting James Bond Island. This page gives you an overview of the park, its wildlife, and how to visit.
🌿 Explore the ancient rainforest 🌿
Combine a trip to Khao Sok with your Phang Nga Bay tour. Day trips from Phuket or Krabi available.
History and Significance
Khao Sok was established as a national park in 1980. It is part of the larger Southern Thailand rainforest corridor. The park is famous for its limestone karst formations (similar to Phang Nga Bay but inland and freshwater), as well as its population of wild elephants, tigers, bears, and gibbons. The highlight for most visitors is Cheow Lan Lake, a huge reservoir created by a dam in 1982. The lake flooded a valley of rainforest, leaving limestone towers rising from the water – a sight reminiscent of Guilin in China.
Wildlife You Might See
- Wild elephants (rare, but tracks and calls are common).
- Gibbons – you will hear their loud calls at dawn.
- Hornbills – large, colourful birds.
- Monitor lizards and snakes (harmless if left alone).
- Leopards and clouded leopards (very rare, only for lucky hikers).
The best wildlife viewing is early morning (5‑7 AM) or dusk. Many jungle treks and night safaris are available from the park headquarters.
Main Attractions
- Cheow Lan Lake (Ratchaprapha Dam) – boat tours, kayaking, floating bungalows.
- Khao Sok River – tubing and rafting.
- Waterfalls – several, including Bang Hua Rad (dry season) and Wildlife spotting.
- Jungle trekking – guided trails from 2 hours to 3 days.
- Night safari – drive or walk to spot nocturnal animals.
How to Get There
Khao Sok is about 90 minutes by road from Phang Nga town, 2 hours from Krabi, and 2.5 hours from Phuket. You can rent a car or book a tour that includes transport. Public buses run from Surat Thani (to the north) and Krabi (to the south). The park entrance is near the small town of Khao Sok (often called “Khao Sok Village”).
Where to Stay
- Jungle bungalows – basic but charming, near the park entrance. From 500 THB.
- Resorts – mid‑range and luxury options, some with private pools. From 2,000 THB.
- Floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake – unique experience, but basic. From 1,500 THB per person including meals and boat transfer.
- Treehouses – for the adventurous, no fancy facilities.
Practical Information
- Entrance fee: 300 THB for adults (foreigners), 150 THB for children.
- Best time: December to April (dry season). June to October (rainy) – some trails muddy, but the lake is full and waterfalls strong.
- What to bring: insect repellent, leech socks (especially after rain), raincoat, sturdy shoes, swimwear, cash (no ATMs inside).
- Guides: Mandatory for overnight jungle treks. Day walks can be done alone, but a guide increases wildlife sightings.
Difference Between Khao Sok and Cheow Lan Lake
People often use “Khao Sok” to refer to both the national park and the lake. But technically, the lake is a separate feature inside the park. The main park area has jungle trails, waterfalls, and the river. Cheow Lan Lake is a 45‑minute drive from the main park entrance, and you need a separate boat tour. Both are worth visiting, but if you have only one day, the lake is the more spectacular sight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I visit Khao Sok as a day trip from Phuket?
A: Yes, but it is a long day (2.5 hours each way). You will see only Cheow Lan Lake and maybe a short walk. Overnight is better.
Q: Are there leeches in the jungle?
A: Yes, especially in rainy season. Wear long pants and leech socks. Guides have salt to remove them.
Q: Can I swim in Cheow Lan Lake?
A: Yes, but only in designated areas. The water is warm and clear.
Q: Is it safe to stay in floating bungalows?
A: Yes, they are safe and operated by the park. However, they are basic (sometimes no hot water).
Final Word From Local Experts
Khao Sok is a different world from James Bond Island. Here, the karsts are surrounded by dark freshwater, and the jungle is thick with life. The silence on the lake at sunrise is unforgettable. If you have an extra day, do not miss it. Just remember to bring strong repellent and a sense of adventure.
— Written by the team at VisitJamesBondIsland.com