Khao Sok National Park lies inland on the mainland, north of Phuket, and it protects one of the oldest rainforests on earth. The park is a world away from the beaches of the island. Steep limestone mountains are covered in dense jungle, rivers run clear and cold through the valleys, and the air is thick with the calls of birds, gibbons and cicadas. The heart of the park is Cheow Lan Lake, a huge reservoir created when a river was dammed in the early 1980s. Its water is a startling green, and tall karst peaks rise straight out of it, so the scene looks like a freshwater version of Phang Nga Bay. Longtail boats carry visitors across the lake to quiet coves, floating bungalows and caves. Wildlife is the other attraction. Gibbons, macaques, hornbills and monitor lizards are the animals most visitors have a chance to see, while elephants, tapirs and other large mammals live in the forest but are rarely spotted. It is a very different day from the usual boat trips, and it suits travellers who want to see Thailand’s wilder side.
How it works
The tour we link is a long day trip from Phuket, in the region of nine and a half hours door to door, with hotel pickup in the early morning and a drive of a couple of hours across Phang Nga province to the park. The programme normally combines a boat trip on Cheow Lan Lake with a jungle walk, and often adds a cave visit, swimming, bamboo rafting or a canoe, depending on the season and the day.
Lunch is usually included. The tour has guaranteed departures, which means it runs even with a small group, so you are less likely to be disappointed by a cancellation. Check what is covered on the day, including the national park entry fee, and confirm the pickup time with the operator.
What to expect
The lake is the visual highlight. Sitting in a longtail boat while limestone towers drift past is a quiet, almost silent experience compared with the speedboat trips on the coast. Swimming off the boat is usually possible, and the water is cool and clean. On the jungle trail, guides point out giant trees, fungi, insects and animal tracks, and the humidity is part of the experience.
Leeches can appear after rain, so wear closed shoes and long socks if you plan to hike. Do not expect to see big animals. Gibbons and hornbills are the likeliest sightings, usually at dawn and dusk, and the day trip does not overlap with those hours as much as an overnight stay does.
Making the most of it
November to April is the dry season and the best time for a visit, with clear skies, easier trails and a calmer lake. The wet season is greener and quieter but makes the trails muddy. Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, a swimsuit, a towel and a change of clothes. Wear sturdy shoes or sandals with grip, and carry a small waterproof bag for your phone.
If you have more time, consider staying a night in a floating bungalow on the lake, which is the best way to see wildlife and to enjoy the mist at dawn. For a single day, though, a Khao Sok trip is a rewarding contrast with Phuket’s beaches and a good pairing with a coastal trip on another day.
What to expect
The experience
A guided day trip with hotel pickup, a drive to Khao Sok National Park, a jungle walk and a longtail boat trip on Cheow Lan Lake, with lunch.
Best time
November to April, the dry season, for easier trails, clearer skies and a calmer lake.
How long
About nine to ten hours, including a drive of roughly two hours each way from Phuket.
Tips
Wear closed shoes, carry insect repellent and swimwear, and bring a small dry bag and some cash.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Nature lovers and anyone who wants a day away from beaches and boats.
- Families
- Good for older children who can walk on jungle trails and sit through a long drive.
- Couples
- Quiet lake scenery and limestone towers, with a longtail boat all to yourselves for a while.
- Pair with
- Phang Nga Bay on another day, to compare the sea karsts with the lake karsts.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How far is Khao Sok from Phuket?+
It is a drive of roughly two to three hours each way, depending on the pickup point and traffic. Day tours start early to make the most of the time at the lake.
Can you see wildlife at Khao Sok on a day trip?+
You may see gibbons, macaques, hornbills and lizards, but large animals such as elephants and tapirs are rarely seen. An overnight stay raises your chances.
What is Cheow Lan Lake?+
It is a large reservoir in the heart of Khao Sok National Park, created by a dam. Its green water is dotted with limestone peaks and floating bungalows.
What should I wear on the Khao Sok day trip?+
Wear light, quick-drying clothes, closed shoes or sandals with grip, and bring swimwear, a towel, repellent and a hat. A change of clothes is useful.
When is the best time to go to Khao Sok?+
November to April is the dry season and the best time for trails and boat trips. The wet season is greener and quieter, but trails are muddy and some activities can be limited.
