Friends, ready for limestone peaks and emerald water in the same day? Khao Sok National Park blends a vast lake dotted with floating stays and a deep-jungle trail network—all within reach of Phuket and Krabi.

Use this guide to lock in realistic costs, smart timing, and simple transport, so your trip feels adventurous without being complicated.

Why Go

Cheow Lan Lake serves glassy sunrises, mirror reflections, and boat-only coves. The jungle side answers with waterfalls, caves, and ranger-led night walks. Base on one side—or do both—to pair calm paddles with canopy shade and cliff views that look painted on.

Park Basics

Entrance is THB 300 (≈ $9) per person, payable at gates. Two main zones: the Visitors’ Center near Khlong Sok village (trails, river activities, camping) and the Ratchaprapha Pier side (lake tours and floating bungalows). Carry cash for tickets, local transfers, and snacks.

Lake Time

From Ratchaprapha Pier, shared longtail tours (3–4 hours) typically run $20–$35 per person, including scenic karst viewpoints and a swim stop. Full-day safaris (6–7 hours) with lunch are usually $40–$65. Kayaks at rafthouses rent about $8–$15 per hour; sunrise is calmest for paddling and wildlife viewing.

River Floats

On the Khlong Sok side, outfitters arrange canoeing, gentle rafting, or tubing down a shady stretch of river. Expect $12–$25 per person depending on duration (1.5–3 hours). Dry bags are often provided; pack a lightweight shirt and quick-dry shorts.

Top Trails

Most short paths near the Visitors’ Center are self-guided; longer trails require a licensed guide (≈ THB 600 ≈ $18 for a half-day).

- Main Trail → Ton Kloi: 2.8 miles one way, jungle to waterfall.

- BangMan Cave Trail: Scenic, includes a cave section; closed in rainy season.

- Orchid Trail: ~3 miles; best in cool season for blooms.

- Sip Et Chan: Northbound river trail with tiered falls, ideal for picnics.

Wild Nights

Rangers and guides lead “night safaris” on loops (60–90 minutes; $12–$20). Expect forest soundscapes and occasional sightings of slow-moving animals. Bring a headlamp and follow light etiquette.

Sleep Options

- Inside park (land side): Central campsite near trailheads; basic but convenient, gear rentals available.

- Around Khlong Sok:

- Khai Jungle Experience: tents/huts from ~$7.50

- Baan Khao Sok Resort: bungalows/treehouses from ~$44.50

- Anurak Community Lodge: stilted bungalows from ~$53.50

- Montania Lifestyle Hotel: villas with pool from ~$53.50

Floating Stays

Stay directly on Cheow Lan Lake:

- Nang Prai (park-run): Shared facilities, generator power.

- Khlong Kha (park-run): Quiet southern bay.

- Keeree Warin: Two-story villas, extended electricity.

- 500 Rai Floating Resort: Higher comfort, $150–$400+ per night incl. meals & transfers.

Getting There

Fly into Surat Thani (URT), then transfer 60–90 min by minivan/private car to Khlong Sok (Visitors’ Center) or ~70–90 min to Ratchaprapha Pier (lake). Buses also link Phuket, Krabi, and Surat Thani; from the highway stop it’s ~1.2 miles on foot or short ride to the gate. Many hotels arrange pickups.

Smart Timing

- May–Nov: Wet, waterfalls strong; some trails/caves close.

- Dec–Apr: Drier, best for boat rides and clear sunsets.

- Wildlife: Best seen at dawn boats or late departures.

What to Pack

Light layers, rain jacket, brimmed hat, repellent, sunscreen, refillable bottle. Quick-dry clothes, sandals/trail shoes, dry bag for electronics. For lake nights: warm layer and headlamp.

Sample Day

Morning: Sunrise boat safari + swim.

Midday: Lunch on floating deck, kayak session.

Afternoon: Transfer to Khlong Sok side.

Evening: Trail stroll + guided night walk.

Tips & Etiquette

Book tours through lodges/official desks; confirm inclusions. Keep 10 m from wildlife, stick to marked paths, carry out trash. Drones require permits.

Conclusion

Lykkers, Khao Sok shines when you balance water and forest—slow paddles at sunrise, shaded hikes after lunch, and quiet nights under towering cliffs. Which calls you first: a mirror-still lake morning or a jungle trail alive with after-dark sounds?