Khao Sok National Park

Top Things to Do Near Khao Lak: Khao Sok National Park

Why You Should Visit Khao Sok

If you love nature and adventure, Khao Sok National Park is the perfect place to visit in Surat Thani, Thailand. Just over an hour from Pullman Khao Lak Resort, it’s one of the most unforgettable destinations for travelers seeking nature, adventure, and a sense of wonder.
It has everything: big green mountains, clear rivers, waterfalls, and beautiful lakes. You can take a boat tour, go on a Khao Sok hike, or just relax in the jungle. It’s one of the most amazing rainforests in the country.

What Makes Khao Sok Special

Khao Sok is also known as the “Guilin of Thailand.” It covers more than 738 square kilometers and is one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Inside the park, you’ll see rivers, caves, and tall limestone cliffs covered with green trees. Before you start exploring, make sure to check a Khao Sok map to help find the best viewpoints and trails.
You can see wild elephants, hornbills, monkeys, and many kinds of plants here. With so much nature around, Khao Sok feels like a paradise that you’ll never forget.
You can see wild elephants, hornbills, monkeys, and many kinds of plants here. With so much nature around, Khao Sok feels like a paradise that you’ll never forget.

The 5 Best Things to Do in Khao Sok

Dubbed the “Guilin of Thailand,” Cheow Lan Lake is one of the park’s most iconic attractions. Surrounded by towering limestone karsts and emerald waters, the lake is perfect for boat tours, where visitors can marvel at the stunning scenery and explore its many islands.

1. Bamboo Rafting or Canoeing on the Sok River

Float down the calm river on a bamboo raft or canoe. You’ll pass through the rainforest and may see monkeys or colorful birds. It’s relaxing and fun – one of the top Khao Sok things to do.

2. Explore Cheow Lan Lake (Ratchaprapha Dam)

This is the most famous spot in the park. The lake, surrounded by tall cliffs and emerald-green water, is often called the “Guilin of Thailand.” You can take a longtail boat ride to see the amazing Three Brothers Rock or stay overnight in one of the Khao Sok floating bungalows.

3. Go Jungle Trekking to Waterfalls

Join a guided Khao Sok hike to see Ton Kloi and Wang Hin Waterfalls. The trails take you through green forests and clear streams. Don’t forget to check your Khao Sok map before you go.

4. Explore the Hidden Caves

Khao Sok has dramatic caves like Nam Talu Cave and Phrakay Petch Cave. Inside, you’ll find beautiful rock formations and underground rivers. Bring a flashlight and wear waterproof shoes.

5. See the Giant Rafflesia Flower

The Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower, blooms only once a year from December to February. Its deep crimson petals and distinctive scent make it one of Khao Sok’s most extraordinary natural wonders.

How to Get to Khao Sok

You can easily reach Khao Sok from Phuket, Khao Lak, or Krabi.

• From Phuket: About 2.5–3 hours by car (150 km)
• From Khao Lak: Only 1 hour (70 km)

If you’re traveling from Khao Sok to Bangkok, take a bus or private car via Surat Thani Airport — it’s fast and simple. For an easy trip, you can also book a Khao Sok National Park tour package that includes transport, activities, and a hotel stay.

Travel Tips and Entrance Fees

The best time to visit: November to February – cool weather, less rain.
What to bring: Light clothes, sneakers, insect repellent, and a waterproof bag.
Be a kind traveler: Don’t feed the animals, and take your trash with you.

Entrance Fees:

• Thai visitors: Adults 40 THB / Children 20 THB
• Foreign visitors: Adults 300 THB / Children 150 THB

Where to Stay Near Khao Sok

There are many places to stay, from small homestays and eco-lodges to beautiful floating bungalows on the lake. For something more comfortable and relaxing, check out Pullman Khao Lak Resort, one of the top-rated hotels near Khao Sok. Located just over an hour’s drive from the park, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of jungle exploration.

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