Khao Sok National Park and Rajaprapha Dam

Khao Sok National Park is one of Thailand’s most breathtaking natural wonders, offering diverse landscapes from ancient rainforests to towering limestone mountains. At the heart of this park lies the stunning Rajaprapha Dam (also known as Cheow Lan Lake), a man-made lake created in the 1980s, famous for its emerald waters, limestone karsts, and floating bungalows.

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Khao Sok National Park and Rajaprapha Dam, including activities, accommodations, prices, and travel tips.

Overview of Khao Sok National Park

Location:
Khao Sok National Park is located in Surat Thani Province, Southern Thailand. It covers an area of 739 km² and is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, dating back over 160 million years.

Why Visit:
This park is a natural wonderland with limestone cliffs, rivers, waterfalls, caves, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, kayaking, and, of course, exploring the famous Rajaprapha Dam.

Rajaprapha Dam (Cheow Lan Lake)

What is Rajaprapha Dam?
Rajaprapha Dam, a hydroelectric dam, created Cheow Lan Lake. The lake covers approximately 185 square kilometers and is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and dense jungle. The dam has become one of the most iconic and picturesque spots in Thailand.

Why Visit Rajaprapha Dam?
The lake’s stunning beauty, floating bungalows, and remote atmosphere make it a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. The floating raft houses offer a unique way to immerse yourself in nature, and boat tours let you explore hidden coves and pristine islands.

How to Get to Khao Sok National Park and Rajaprapha Dam

1. By Air:
   The closest airports are in Surat Thani, Phuket, and Krabi. From these airports, you can take a bus, taxi, or a private transfer to Khao Sok.
2. By Bus:
   Buses run regularly from major tourist hubs like Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani, and even Bangkok. Prices range from 300-800 THB ($9-25 USD) depending on the distance and type of bus (VIP buses cost more).
3. Private Transfers:
   For convenience, you can book a private transfer from nearby cities or airports directly to Khao Sok National Park. A private taxi from Surat Thani costs around 2,000-2,500 THB ($60-75 USD), while from Phuket or Krabi, the price is about 2,500-3,500 THB ($75-110 USD).

Entrance Fees and Park Tickets

The entrance fee to Khao Sok National Park is:

• Adults: 300 THB ($9 USD)
• Children: 150 THB ($4.50 USD)

For Rajaprapha Dam, the boat tours and activities will have separate fees (more details below).

Activities at Khao Sok National Park

1. Hiking and Trekking
   Explore the park’s dense rainforest through hiking trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks. The most popular trails include routes to Ton Kloi Waterfall and Bang Hua Rat Waterfall.
   • Guided jungle tours: 1,000-2,000 THB ($30-60 USD) per person.
   • Full-day trekking tours: 1,500-3,000 THB ($45-90 USD) per person, which often include meals and waterfall visits.
2. Canoeing and Kayaking
   Paddle along the Sok River and take in the serene jungle views. You may spot gibbons, snakes, or even elephants if you’re lucky!
   • Canoe rental: Around 500-800 THB ($15-25 USD) for half a day.
   • Guided river tours: Typically 1,200-1,800 THB ($35-55 USD) per person.
3. Wildlife Tours
   The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife including elephants, gibbons, and hornbills. Night safaris are particularly popular as you have the chance to spot nocturnal animals.
   • Night safaris: 800-1,500 THB ($25-45 USD) per person.
4. Cave Exploration
   Visit the Nam Talu or Coral Cave, both known for their beautiful formations and cool, dark interiors. These are often part of organized tours that also include other activities like kayaking.
   • Cave tours: Around 1,000-2,000 THB ($30-60 USD) depending on the package.

Rajaprapha Dam (Cheow Lan Lake) Activities

1. Boat Tours of Cheow Lan Lake
   Boat tours around the lake are the most popular way to explore its beauty. These tours will take you to hidden coves, jungle-covered islands, and floating raft houses.
   • Boat tour (2-3 hours): 1,500-3,000 THB ($45-90 USD) per boat (max 6-8 people).
   • Private full-day boat tour: 3,500-5,000 THB ($100-150 USD) per boat, often including a stop for lunch and snorkeling.
2. Stay in Floating Bungalows
   Staying overnight in one of the floating bungalows is a must-do experience. You’ll wake up to the sound of nature, with mist covering the lake and towering cliffs all around you.
   • Basic floating bungalows: 600-1,200 THB ($18-35 USD) per night, per person.
   • Luxury floating bungalows: 3,000-6,000 THB ($90-180 USD) per night, per person. These often include private bathrooms, electricity, and meals.
3. Kayaking and Swimming
   Most floating bungalows offer free use of kayaks, and you can swim directly from your bungalow into the lake’s clear, refreshing waters.

Accommodations Around Khao Sok National Park

1. Budget Accommodations
   Khao Sok has a variety of budget guesthouses and lodges. Simple wooden bungalows surrounded by jungle are popular.
   • Prices range from 300-600 THB ($9-18 USD) per night for basic rooms.
2. Mid-Range Resorts
   For a little more comfort, there are mid-range eco-resorts offering modern amenities such as air conditioning and private balconies with jungle views.
   • Prices range from 1,500-3,000 THB ($45-90 USD) per night.
3. Luxury Treehouses and Boutique Resorts
   For a unique experience, some resorts offer luxury treehouses or villas nestled high in the treetops, offering panoramic views of the rainforest and mountains.
   • Prices range from 4,000-10,000 THB ($120-300 USD) per night.

Best Time to Visit Khao Sok National Park and Rajaprapha Dam

• Dry Season (November to April): This is the best time to visit for outdoor activities, hiking, and boat tours.
• Rainy Season (May to October): The park is lush and green, but you may experience heavy rains. This is the low season, so you can find better deals, but some activities may be limited.

What to Bring

• Comfortable trekking shoes
• Lightweight, breathable clothing
• Eco-friendly insect repellent and sunscreen
• Reusable water bottle
• Waterproof bag (for valuables during boat tours)

Tips for Visiting Khao Sok National Park and Rajaprapha Dam

• Book in Advance: Accommodation, especially the floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake, can fill up quickly. Make reservations in advance, especially during the high season.
• Hire a Guide: For the best experience, hire a local guide. They are knowledgeable about the trails, wildlife, and cultural history.
• Cash Only: There are very few ATMs, so bring enough cash for park fees, activities, and accommodation.
• Respect Nature: Khao Sok is a protected national park, so be sure to follow local guidelines, such as taking your trash with you and not disturbing wildlife.

With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless adventure activities, Khao Sok National Park and Rajaprapha Dam are a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers traveling in Thailand. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay in floating bungalows, this guide should help you make the most of your trip.