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Khao Sok National Park is nestled in the Asian country of Thailand. This is an ancient rainforest with a variety of flora and fauna. The waters of this national park are known for their turquoise green colour which is crystal-clear too. This national park is situated within the Surat Thani province. The province lies on the western coast of Thailand. The national park is meant to beguile you with its rich biodiversity and beautiful landscape views. It is widely known as a home to the rarest wildlife species and geological formations of Thailand.
Location
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Khao Sok is located in the Surat Thani Province of Thailand. The national park spans over an area of 739 square kilometres of land. Cheow Lan Lake, a lake inside this national park, is spread across 165 kilometres square with a dam called Ratchaprapha Dam. This park is the largest area of the ‘Virgin Forest’ in Southern Thailand. The national park is covered with evergreen rainforests which is a remnant of the rainforest being older and more diverse than the renowned Amazon Rainforest.
Suggested Read: The Ultimate List Of The Top Things To Do In Thailand
How To Reach
Photo: Markus Winkler / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Many options for travelling are available to reach the park, which mainly depends on the starting point of your journey. Whether you are travelling from Bangkok, Phuket or Krabi, these options will guarantee you a hassle-free journey.
If you have arrived in Bangkok, then take a flight from Bangkok to Surat Thani Airport or a train from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong Station to Surat Thani Railway Station which might take a long time. From the airport or railway station, take a minibus or a private taxi to reach the park. If you are in Krabi, take a minibus or a private taxi to Surat Thani Province. From there, you can again hire a taxi or local bus to reach the park in approx 2-3 hours. If you arrive in Phuket, you can either take a flight to Surat Thani Airport and reach within an hour, or have a journey via road by renting a car or taking a bus directly to Khao Sok. This journey may end in 2.5-3 hours.
Places To Visit Around
1. Wat Tham Suwan Kuha
Photo: Deror Avi / Wikimedia Commons
Monkey Cave Temple is a very famous place in the country of Thailand. This temple is very unique as it is built within a limestone cave. It is believed that Wat Tham Suwan Kuha Temple dates back to the 16th century. This temple is famous for its Buddha Statue which is seen reclining on a rock. Wat Tham Suwan Kuha Temple is also known as Monkey Cave Temple because of the multiple macaque monkeys which reside in the area. You are recommended to explore the interior of the cave with the Buddha Statue and other relics.
Location: Wat Tham Suwan Kuha Moo 2, Tambon Talat Yai Amphoe Mueang Phang-nga Phang-nga 82000
Distance From The Park: 89 km
Suggested Read: Amazing Places To Visit In Thailand On Your Next Tropical Vacation
2. Takua Pa Old Town
Photo: mohigan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Takua Pa Old Town is located almost 36 kilometres to the west of Khao Sok National Park. This town is famous as it reflects the region’s history and culture. A glimpse of the region’s architecture is reflected which takes you back to the 13th century. It is believed that the town is also dating back to the 13th century. It showcases the remnants and preserves the Sino-Portuguese Buildings which are renowned for their architecture. There are old Buddhist temples and Thai traditional shops which have their unique charm.
Location: Takua Pa Old Town Tambon Takua Pa Amphoe Takua Pa Phang-nga 82110
Distance From The Park: 35.5 km
3. Khao Lak Beach
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Khao Lak is located to the southwest of Khao Sok National Park. This is a known beach destination for both locals and tourists of the region. Khao Lak is known for its very long coastline and its proximity to many islands. Tourists from this place often prefer island hopping to explore the islands which are very near to Khao Lak and can be reached via speed boats or ferry. Two beaches in this region, Bang Niang Beach and Nang Thong Beach are usually crowded. The beaches have white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is recommended to explore the coral reefs on any of the nearby islands.
Location: Khao Lak, Takua Pa District, Phang-nga Province 82190
Distance: From The Park: 62 km
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Thailand With Family
4. Phang Nga Bay
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Phang Nga Bay is getting busier day by day because of the pristine beauty that it showcases. It is a popular destination in Thailand and lies to the southwest of Khao Sok National Park. The place is home to many limestone cliffs and karsts. These structures tend to emerge from the emerald-green waters of Phang Nga Bay. Activities like Kayaking, Scuba Diving, Boating or Here, you may enjoy snorkelling to explore the bay. Phang Nga Bay also has secluded lagoons, sea caves and tropical islands. A very famous island, ‘James Bond Island’ offers beautiful views.
Location: Phang Nga Bay, Phang-nga Province 82170
Distance: From The Park: 81 km
5. Phuket
Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons
Phuket, the most visited city in Thailand, is just 2 hours from the park. Phuket is known for its amazing nightlife and beautiful beaches. The place also has traditional markets which offer insights into the local Thai Culture. Numerous beaches like Patong Beach, Katta Beach and Karon Beach get busier day by day because of its crystal-clear waters, luxurious resorts and water sports. The city features a Big Buddha Statue, an Elephant Sanctuary and many adventure parks. It is recommended to visit the beachfront shacks and bars to experience amazing nightlife.
Location: Phuket, Phuket City, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket Province 83000
Distance: From The Park: 156 km
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Khao Sok National Park is a symbol that is preserving the natural heritage of Thailand. This vast national park organises various activities for you to indulge in like: canoeing, trekking, river rafting and boating. There are huge limestone cliffs in the national park which stand as a testament to the history of the region. The forests of this park are evergreen rainforests, being older and more diverse than the great Amazon Forests. Plan a trip to this park with TripXL, and hop on a unique experience.
Cover Photo: Nicolas M. Perrault / Wikimedia Commons
