Everything you need to know about visiting this magical destination in Thailand
Tucked away in the heart of southern Thailand is the incredible Khao Sok National Park – one of the country’s most jaw-dropping natural gems.
In spite of its natural beauty and spectacular views, it is somehow still a bit of a hidden secret!
Picture this: misty limestone cliffs, sparkling emerald lakes, floating bamboo bungalows, and rainforest treks will make you feel like you were dropped into a scene in Jurassic Park (minus the dinosaurs, thankfully). Whether you’re looking forward to a vacation packed with thrilling adventures or a few days of peace and tranquillity, this guide will tell you everything you need to know — how to get to Khao Sok from Bangkok, what to pack, what to do and see, and why the Bamboo Bliss tour should be the next experience you check off your bucket list.
What is Khao Sok National Park?
Khao Sok National Park is a natural gem located in the Surat Thani province of southern Thailand. It is home to some of the oldest evergreen rainforests in the world and is most famous for Cheow Lan Lake – a man-made reservoir formed in the 1980s when the Rajjaprabha Dam flooded the vast valley.
What remains is a surreal landscape of dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise water, all surrounded by dense jungle.
If you’re tired of the typical, crowded tourist spots and want a wilder slice of Thailand that still feels relatively untouched, this is the place to be.
Which Khao Sok Tour Package to Book: The 3-Day Bamboo Bliss Tour
We chose the 3-night private Bamboo Bliss tour with Khao Sok Lake. Honestly? It was the best decision we’ve ever made. This all-inclusive Khao Sok tour package offers the perfect mix of comfort and adventure, and includes:
- Private longtail boat and local guide
- Floating bamboo bungalow accommodations (traditional, yet utterly fabulous)
- All meals (we were in Thai food heaven, obviously)
- Thrilling activities like jungle hikes, boat safaris, cave exploring, kayaking, swimming, and more
Prices start at 7,300 THB for a 2-night private tour (approx. £60). If you have the time, we highly recommend doing at least two nights. The people we saw taking the one-night tours seemed very rushed. Trust me, you’ll want time to fully sink into the slow, peaceful rhythm of lake life.
What is the Best Way to get to Khao Sok from Bangkok?
Khao Sok National Park isn’t terribly difficult to get to, but it does require a bit of planning in advance. These are your two main travel options:
Bangkok to Khao Sok Sleeper Train
We opted for the overnight sleeper train from Bangkok to Surat Thani, which was comfortable and actually a fun little adventure in itself. The journey takes around 9 to 11 hours. From Surat Thani, it’s around 2 hours by car to the Khao Sok National Park. Most tour companies will arrange this transfer for you.
You can book your train tickets up to 30 days in advance via 12Go, you’ll be met with a range of different ticket options which will significantly impact your enjoyment:
1st Class: These sell out almost immediately (which makes sense as there aren’t many per train) and we weren’t able to get our hands on these tickets sadly – but the first class sleeper trains means a private cabin!
2nd Class: We went with the AC option and in second class think hostel dorm room vibes. The cart starts out with normal chairs that will then be transformed into bunk beds all the way along when it’s time to sleep. Here you can choose top or bottom bunks (the bottom are bigger but I prefer top for more privacy). Each bunk has a pull across curtain and honestly I quite enjoyed the experience!
3rd Class: Third class means no bunk and a more “normal” seat to sleep in, I’d avoid this unless you’re a seriously heavy sleeper because there’s no way I’d have been able to fall asleep in one of these cars.
Fly & Transfer
Alternatively, you can fly into Surat Thani Airport from Bangkok, which takes just over an hour. From there, you’ll hop into a minivan or take a private transfer. If you’re short on time, this is a quicker (though admittedly less scenic) option.
Pro Tip: Book flights well in advance during peak season, which lasts from December to March.
Where You’ll Stay: Floating Bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake
It probably comes as no surprise that the floating bungalows are the absolute star of this experience.
Depending on your tour package, you’ll stay in either traditional bamboo huts (simple but very charming) or the more luxurious floating villas with ensuite bathrooms and balconies overlooking the crystal-clear water.
On the 3-day Bamboo Bliss tour, our bamboo bungalow was basic but comfortable – very much a camping vibe and honestly if you’re after luxury this option isn’t for you. Waking up to the sound of gibbons calling to us through the jungle mist? Now, that was pure magic.
What is There to Do in Khao Sok National Park?
There is one thing I can tell you for sure: you won’t be bored on your Khao Sok tour! This experience includes a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. Here’s what we did on our trip:
- Jungle trek through ancient rainforest with a local guide
- Sunrise and sunset boat safaris – spotting monkeys, hornbills, and, if you’re really lucky, wild elephants
- Kayaking and swimming right off the deck of our bungalow
- Visiting hidden caves by torchlight
- Plenty of relax time
One amenity you should NOT expect – WiFi or phone service. Think of this Khao Sok tour as a total digital detox. Trust me, you’ll be thankful for it by the end!
A Note About Those Pesky Mosquitos
I’m thrilled but surprised to share that we barely saw any mosquitoes the entire time. Supposedly, this is thanks to the calcium content of the water. Still, it certainly doesn’t hurt to pack some insect repellent, just in case.
Tips for Planning Your Khao Sok Tour
- Book everything early! Especially if you’re eyeing the private or luxury packages. These sell out quickly in peak season.
- Pack as light as possible. You’ll be hopping in and out of boats, so a backpack or duffel bag is way easier than a suitcase.
- Bring cash. There are no ATMs on the lake, and card payments aren’t accepted.
- Don’t rush. Give yourself at least two nights if possible – the longer you’re there, the deeper you sink into the bliss of lake life.
Is Khao Sok National Park Worth Visiting?
Without a shadow of a doubt – YES. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography aficionado, or just someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Thai cities for a bit, a Khao Sok tour will deliver an unforgettable experience.
As you’re floating peacefully on Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs and the gentle echoes of the local wildlife, you’ll quickly realise why this is one of Thailand’s most underrated destinations.
Ready to Go on An Adventure?
If you’re planning your Khao Sok tour from Bangkok, start by checking availability with Khao Sok Lake and compare options for the Bamboo Bliss tour versus more luxe or budget-friendly alternatives.
