One of the most popular destinations on the southern Thailand map is the ancient Khao Sok National Park.
It highlights Thailand’s preservation efforts on bio-diversity.
Why is Khao Sok so special?
Approximated to be as old as 160 million years (thus the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, even older than the Amazon rainforest of Brazil) and covering a huge 739 square kilometres, it features rich rainforests, wildlife sanctuaries, limestone structures, and the scenic Cheow Lan Lake in the heart of the park.
Khao Sok Thailand is world-renowned for being home to one of the largest flowers on earth.
The Rafflesia flower grows to more than one metre wide and blooms only from December to March, and can be seen with the help of a guided tour.
Bio-Diversity Mecca
Khao Sok National Park is home to diverse fauna specifically 311 species of birds, 48 species of mammals, 30 plus species of bats, countless insects and reptiles, Asian elephants and endangered tigers.
There are two sections in the national park: Khlong Sok town and Cheow Lan Lake.
Khlong Sok town is the easiest section of the park to reach from Phuket and Khao Lak whereas Cheow Lan Lake is located about 65kms away from Khlong Sok.
The park’s climate and weather remain consistent throughout the year making it a must-see destination at any time.
Trekking
Please be aware that visitors are only allowed to venture 3 km into the national park independently without a guide.
If you wish to venture deeper, you must arrange to go with a local guide. Khao Sok National Park tours are available all year round including cave tours and night safaris.
Best Time to Visit
During the wet season (May to November) some tours do not operate as some areas become prone to flooding, too slippery and dangerous to navigate on foot.
The best time to visit Khao Sok is during the dry season from December to April.