khlong sok tour

Khao Sok National Park, 2-day, 1-night tour

Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand consists of dense, untouched jungle and a massive man-made lake.  Towering over the lake are impressive forested cliffs and a number of bare treetops also stick out of the water.  Visitors to Khao Sok National Park most commonly take part in a 2-day and 1-night tour from nearby Khlong Sok town. Part of the tour is one of the most unique experiences in Thailand: staying overnight in floating accommodation on the lake! 

These are my tips and experiences for an amazing trip to beautiful Khao Sok, Thailand when I embarked on the 2-day, 1-night tour of the national park as well. 

Starting at Khlong Sok village - How to get to Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Khlong Sok is a small village in Surat Thani providence and the most popular starting point for the 2-day, 1 night tour to Khao Sok National Park . 

Khlong Sok can easily be reached from other tourist locations within Thailand, with many tourist hubs in southern Thailand like Krabi, Phuket, Surat Thani, and even Bangkok offering direct transport by bus or van to Khlong Sok/Khao Sok National Park.

Khlong Sok is a peaceful village surrounded by nature and just bordering Khao Sok National Park. In fact, at one edge of the village is a remote entrance to the park which as a number of walking trails leading from it.  Most of the  accommodation here can help tourists secure tickets for the 2-day, 1-night tour of Khao Sok National Park or other tour options as well.

Where to stay in Khlong Sok

Here are a number of incredible options for places to stay near Khao Sok National Park! All located in or around Khlong Sok village in Surat Thani providence, these hostels and hotels put you right at the starting point to Khao Sok National Park tours. 

Budget Accommodation Options :

• Coco Khao Sok Hostel – a popular hostel known for its friendly staff, a travel sustainable property with tour desk and restaurant attached.
• Chillax Khaosok Hostel – this sleek, modern hostel will provide a comfortable night’s sleep before heading on a Khao Sok tour. Beautiful limestone cliff views from the terrace too! 
• Khao Sok River & Jungle Resort  – offers romantic cabin accommodations with balconies and river views. 
• Khaosok Riverside Cottages – located a short distance away from Khlong Sok, these secluded cottages are right on the river and surrounded by the jungle that Khao Sok is famous for. 
• Rock and Tree Resort – this resort was built to blend into the natural scenery, with fun perks like tree houses and water features
• Khao Sok Jasmine Garden Resort – this luxurious stay has air-conditioned bungalows with attached bathrooms. With gorgeous mountain views and a pool, what’s not to love! 

Khao Sok National Park Tour Options - Book ahead!

For piece of mind, secure your Khao Sok National Park tour ahead of time! The 2-day, 1-night tour is one of the most popular tour options, and with limited overwater accommodation in the park, it’s best to book ahead. Here are a number of Khao Sok National Park tour options, including day-trips and multi-night trips too. 

Click the tour links below to check the latest prices and availability:

2-day, 1-night Khao Sok National Park tour with overwater bungalow accommodation

2-day, 1-night Khao Sok National Park tour with treehouse accommodation

Full-day Khao Sok National Park lake and caves tour (10 hours)

LUXURY 3-day, 2-night Khao Sok National Park tour with overwater cabin accommodation

Khao Sok National Park 2-day, 1-night tour option

In Khlong Sok I booked the  2-day, 1-night tour from the tour desk at my hostel, for  2400 baht (about $72 USD). Visitors have to pay an additional 300 baht ($9) for the entry to the national park while on the tour.

The 2-day, 1-night tour I embarked on included breakfast, a boat ride to Cheow Lan lake, lunch, a jungle and cave hike, and dinner the first day. You spend a night on the lake  on floating bungalow accommodation . The next day, the tour includes a sunrise boat safari, breakfast, a boat tour with more caving, and lunch before getting dropped off again in Khlong Sok around 3pm.

Day 1 - Floating bungalows, lake and cave tour

First thing in the morning I was greeted with a wonderful breakfast at the hostel, and given a rain poncho by the Khao Sok tour operator in case of rain. I was then picked up by a minivan that went to a number of other accommodations around town until it was at max capacity.

The first stop on the tour was a local market partway to Khao Sok National Park. This wasn’t explained to us as being part of the itinerary, but the driver stopped here to pick up fresh fruits that we ended up having for dinner. It gave us a chance to buy some snacks for the road, and anything we may have forgotten to pack for the trip. 

We were then dropped off at the entrance to Khao Sok National park, at a port for Thai longboats. Here we paid our national park entrance fee, got our tickets, then boarded the longboards and set off on the lake. The geological cliff formations surrounding us were incredible. The mountains and limestone cliffs stick out so drastically from the deep blue lake, it looks like they were just dropped there.

After an hour on the boat, we reached our floating bungalow accommodation in Khao Sok National Park! Two huge rows of identical bungalows were connected in the middle by a large common area, and everything was floating on the water. The tour guide assigned us four-bed or two-bed bungalows, and we were given some time to unpack and unwind. 

After lunch we went back on the longboats for the jungle and cave trek portion of the tour. We were told to wear swimsuits because in the cave there would be some portions where we need to swim. Gulp.

The hike through the jungle at Khao Sok National Park was beautiful and there were many sections where the trail crossed a river. I was glad to be wearing my Chacos (sandals with a hiking boot sole), and I recommend wearing waterproof shoes for this tour as well. 

Right before the entrance to the cave, the guide told us to leave our bags and clothes we want to keep dry around a designated tree, and that anyone who is nervous about dark, small spaces should sit this one out. We were then given head lamps, although there were only enough for about 2/3 of the participants. Tip: Bring your own head lamp!!

We descended into the cave, some people barefoot, and followed a little river into the darkness.

At first the water was ankle deep. Gradually the light from the entrance of the cave faded away, and the water got up to my knees and started moving faster. 

It was exhilarating taking each step in the dark, not knowing how deep the water is beneath you or how stable your footing would be. Even pointing the headlamp down at my feet, it was impossible to tell how far down I could drop. I was holding on to the rocks around me for dear life! People were alternating between screaming and laughing as they continually lost their footing with the gush of the river.

Occasionally the guide would point something out in the cave – big spider-cricket bugs that were hiding between the rocks, or small bats that were flying in circles above us.

Towards the end of the cave was when the river trail got insane. The guide led us through a small lagoon, where I took a step forward and suddenly there was no footing below me. I doggie-paddled five seconds and reached the other end where I saw the people climb up out of the water. Luckily the rocks are easy to grab onto, to keep your head above water until you can hoist yourself up to shallower waters.

The next portion of the cave was a steep staircase wide enough only for one person. I had to grab on to a rope on one side to keep my balance as the river cascaded past my legs. I almost took a serious tumble here when I slipped on a rock below. The only thing that kept me from creating a domino effect with the others down the waterfall was that I was holding on to the rope.

I do not know how it was possible for 50+ people to go through this dangerous cave-river in almost complete darkness, without one person twisting their ankle or otherwise injuring themselves. In the end, we all made it!

After existing the cave and grabbing our belongings, we took the same jungle trail back to the longboat. The driver took us a scenic way over the lake back to the overwater bungalows.

We had a bit more down time to swim or take kayaks out onto the lake or relax in the common area before the buffet dinner was served. The chefs made a vegetarian and a meat version of a number of different Thai curries and fried rice as well. They brought around some fresh caught fish that they had grilled, and put one on each table. For dessert there was the fruit from the market!

In the evening some people were buying and drinking beers (they even had buckets of alcohol available… because Thailand). Since the next morning there would be a sunrise longboat safari, most people went to bed early. 

Day 2 - A boat safari, lake ride, and exploring a dry cave

As the sun was coming up on the next morning of the 2-day, 1-night Khao Sok National Park tour, even before breakfast, we embarked on the longboats onto the lake. The morning wind on the boat was COLD, and there was a mist floating above the surface of the lake.

This longboat tour had a wildlife spotter sitting at the front of the boat with a paddle, looking around alertly at the trees and over the surface of the water. He pointed out to us some massive toucans, two different species of monkeys, and some other large birds. At one point he pointed to the trees and yelled “Lady Gaga! Lady Gaga!” Turns out he was referring to a family of monkeys who had a circle design on their face.

We had breakfast back at the overwater bungalows, then we packed up our bags to head back to the mainland.

On the way back the tour continued to another cave. This one was a small ‘dry’ cave with stalagmites and stalactites, bats, and a pool of water with some elusive cave fish in it. 

For one last stop on the way back to the longboat port, we passed by a famous geological structure of three limestone cliffs sticking straight out of the water. Known as the “three sisters”, the boat circled around them for a bit so everyone could take pictures.

We went back in the minivan then were dropped off at a small viewpoint for lunch. The guides passed out little pack lunches for all of us that had fried noodles in it, and they gave us some pineapples as well. We had about 45 minutes to wander around the rest area where there were great views of the lake and a Buddhist temple at the top of a small hill.

After this it was a straight drive back to town!

I had a 4:30pm pickup for an overnight bus to Bangkok, so I was glad that we made it back to Khlong Sok town around 2pm, earlier than planned.

Overall, I thought the tour was a great value. Although it is on the expensive side for a budget traveler, I would never have had the same experience if I decided to just hike around Khao Sok National Park on my own.

Since it was so different from other Thailand activities like island-hopping and exploring cities, splurging on a tour like this was a nice change. For anyone visiting southern Thailand and who wants to spend some adventurous, detoxing time in nature, I highly recommend this 2-day, 1-night tour to Khao Sok National Park ! 

You might also like:

15 Things to do in Jeonju, South Korea

One Month in Thailand Itinerary – The Thailand Backpacking Route

12 Amazing Overwater Bungalows in Thailand

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Everything You Need To Know About Visiting Khao Sok National Park

From what to pack and details about the accommodation, to the amazing activities on offer, read this before visiting Khao Sok National Park, Thailand. 

If you want to take in Thailand’s raw beauty, then a trip to Khao Sok National Park should be at the top of your list. With epic limestone cliffs, a bright emerald lake and a chance to get up close to wildlife, our time in Khao Sok was the highlight of our trip to Thailand. 

In all honesty, we had several dilemmas about whether to visit Khao Sok National Park on our recent holiday. We were only in Thailand for just over two weeks, and from our research it seemed like Khao Sok was awkward to get to. To really soak it up we’d need two or three days there, with some big travel days at either end. We wondered whether it was worth it, or whether we should skip it and enjoy our trip at a slower pace.

So what happened? Well… we went for it! The adventure won, and what an incredible adventure it turned out to be! I’m SOOOOOO happy we visited. Khao Sok is genuinely one of the most stunning places I’ve ever been on my travels. The colours, the landscapes, the rawness – it’s a very special place. It reminded me a little of another favourite – Raja Ampat (a.k.a Indonesia’s secret paradise!)

When we were researching our trip, we had lots of questions and while there are lots of great posts around, I couldn’t find one that covered absolutely everything. So, that’s what I’ve attempted to do. I really hope you find this Khao Sok travel guide helpful. As always, if you have any questions, please leave a comment at the bottom of the post or send me an email. 

The Ultimate Guide To Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

How to get to khao sok national park.

The majority of people travel by minibus to the town of Khlong Sok. The small town has several guesthouses and hotels, perfect for travellers keen to explore the region. After spending a few days in Ao Nang, we booked onto a bus from Krabi, while others reached the area from Khao Lak or Surat Thani – the closest airport to Khao Sok National Park.

A week before arriving in Khlong Sok, we contacted our hotel to check there was availability for on the 2 day/1 night tour of Khao Sok. We reserved two spots and then paid on arrival. We knew the tour included a few boat trips, accommodation and meals, but there was a lack of detailed information on what to expect.

If you’d prefer to book your trip in advance, I’d recommend this Khao Sok tour which is available via GetYourGuide.

Information About The 2 Day / 1 Night Tour of Khao Sok National Park

The two day / one night tour is the most popular option for visitors wanting to explore Khao Sok National Park. It felt like the perfect amount of time to soak up what the park has to offer. It gives you the freedom to immerse yourself in the impressive scenery, enjoy a few activities and stay overnight in a floating bungalow. You can do day tours to Khao Sok, but I feel like you’d be missing a lot! 

How much does the 2 Day / 1 Night Tour of  Khao Sok National Park cost?

We booked the tour through our hotel in Khlong Sok. We researched a few options online, but as the rate seemed to be standard across all of the tour operators, we decided it’d be nice to support our hotel. That way, we could also chat to them to confirm all of the key information once we’d checked in. 

The Khao Sok tour includes all transport (bus from Khlong Sok and the boat over the lake), lunch and dinner on the first day, plus breakfast and a snack lunch on the second day. It also includes one night’s accommodation in floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake. In terms of activities it includes a few boat and cave tours while in the national park.

There’s usually a charge of 300 THB per person to enter Khao Sok National Park. This was included in our tour price, but this wasn’t the case for everyone in our group, so it’s something worth checking when you book.

Obviously, if you do decide to book in advance via GetYourGuide, you can check the prices of the tours here .

What is the 2 Day / 1 Night Tour of  Khao Sok National Park ?

I should probably add a disclaimer here, that not all tours will be exactly the same, and where you visit and the accommodation your stay in will depend on your tour operator. However, from my pre-trip research, most of the trips sounded pretty similar to one another.

As a guide, here’s how our tour was structured:

Day 1 – Khao Sok National Park Tour Schedule

Morning: Pickups from Khlong Sok village. One hour drive to Ban Ta Khun.

Stop in Ban Ta Khun market area where you can buy items including snacks, drinks, waterproof bags, head torches and sandals. We were told it would be a good idea to stock up on snacks if you get hungry often, or spirits if you don’t drink beer (as that’s all that’s available for sale at the floating bungalows).

Short drive Ratchaprapa Dam for Cheow Lan pier, then board a boat to the floating bungalows. The boat trip accommodation took around 45 minutes.

Check into accommodation and then enjoy a group lunch in the main restaurant area. Food throughout the trip was great and included curries, fish, rice and vegetables.

Afternoon: 5 minute boat trip to the start of the jungle / cave hike.

2-3 hours hike through the jungle to Nam Talu Cave. Then an adventure through the cave (more on that below!) and then back to the boats.

Relax time at the floating bungalows before the night safari and dinner, with options of swimming and kayaking

Night safari to see wildlife and landscapes

Evening: Group dinner – again more great curry and fish, followed by drinks (optional!) and bed.

Day 2 – Khao Sok National Park Tour Schedule

Morning: Early morning boat trip

Breakfast – pancakes, fruit and coffee

Relax time before checkout with options of swimming and kayaking

Boat trip to Pra Kay Petch Cave to see stalagmites and stalagtites

Boat trip to see the scenery of Cheow Lan Lake including a stop at the three limestone hills (iconic view!)

Stop off at a beach on the lake for a picnic lunch of rice packs and fresh fruit before heading back to the pier and catching a transfer back to Khlong Sok village.

Who books the 2 Day / 1 Night Tour of  Khao Sok National Park ?

I loved how mixed the group was for our trip to Khao Sok. Our tour group consisted of 22 people, aged between 21 – 65. There were a mix of nationalities too, including English, Dutch, Australian, German, Russian and Ukrainian. We were travelling as a couple, but there were small groups of friends, a few other couples and a mother and daughter. The tour guide gave all instructions in English.

Tell me more about the activities on the 2 Day / 1 Night Tour of  Khao Sok National Park…

In addition to the boat trips to get to and from our accommodation, our tour included two cave tours and two boat trips.

Nam Talu Cave Hike

The hike to the entrance of Nam Talu Cave took around an hour, and involved walking along paths carved through bamboo forests, and crossing several streams and rivers. The route is very pretty, and it wasn’t long before I felt fully immersed in the nature of the national park.

At the entrance of Nam Talu Cave, we were equipped with head torches, and everyone packed essential items into dry bags. The cave is 850m long, and the route through is a dark, wet one! We spotted bats, frogs and spiders along the journey.

While you don’t need to be at peak fitness levels, you do need to be open to adventures and happy to clamber, walk and swim! If you’re claustrophobic, scared of the dark or not confident in the water, I’d avoid this element of the trip. I wore a bikini and water shoes for the cave trek (more on what to pack below), as it was really wet!

It took around one hour to reach the other end of the cave, and although I found it challenging and a little scary at times, it was one of those rewarding travel experiences that I’m SO happy I did!

Pra Kay Petch Cave 

On day two we visited Pra Kay Petch Cave. This was a much more relaxed adventure. It took just 15 minutes to walk through the cave, and inside were a beautiful array of stalagmites and stalactites.

Boat Safaris In Khao Sok National Park

We went on two longtail boat safaris – in the evening of the first day, and early morning the next day. They were described as safaris as there was a chance we’d see some incredible wildlife. We did! There were lots of monkeys playing by the shore, plus we saw a few beavers and plenty of birds. I wouldn’t say it’s the most wildlife-rich place I’ve ever been, but it’s always amazing to see animals in their natural habitats.

Other activities in Khao Sok National Park

No matter where you’re staying, you can enjoy regular jumps into the lake, along with plenty of swimming and kayaking. It was definitely a refreshing way to wake up and a wonderful way to take in the landscapes.

If you don’t fancy the longer trip, you can also book day trips like this one to Khao Sok , which include a bit of time kayaking.

Khao Sok National Park Packing List : Useful Items

If you’re planning to spend a few days in Khao Sok National Park, then the best thing to do is decant your essentials into an overnight bag, and store your main backpack or suitcase at your hotel in Khlong Sok.

In addition to basics like clothes and toiletries, here are a few items I’d recommend packing if possible:

Insect repellent – There are plenty of really good insect repellents like this one . If you’re travelling with kids you might want to buy a specific children’s insect repellent too.

Bite relief – I usually take an after bite / anti-itch cream like this , that helps to soothe any bites. I also swear by this amazing Bite Away Pen , which sends a small electric shock to the itchy part of the bite. It takes a bit of getting used to at first (and sometimes hurts a tiny bit), but it does work. I’ve done a full review of the item (as it goes everywhere with me!!) so feel free to read more here . 

Travel towel – A fast-drying microfibre towel like this one will come in handy in Khao Sok. These are great not only for when you fancy a swim, but also when you want to sit down on the ground or to wipe your sweaty face on a humid day!

Sun cream – It’s important to apply suncream throughout the day. I’d recommend finding a brand which isn’t too heavy on chemicals, or is almost totally natural, like this one made by Sun Bum . 

Sunglasses – It’s important to protect your eyes when you visit a holiday destination like this one. I’d recommend investing in some high-quality UV protected sunglasses. I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat to protect yourself on all of those sunny days!

After sun or aloe vera – Don’t forget some soothing cream incase you do burn. I really like this one made by Ultrasun . It’s lightweight and feels lovely on your skin.

Rain jacket – Check the forecast before you go. There are occasionally sporadic rain showers. As you won’t need it for warmth, I’d recommend a lightweight waterproof jacket that packs down small. Something like this would be perfect.

Daypack backpack – I used a small backpack for day-to-day adventures, which could fit a water bottle, camera, sun cream and bug spray. If you’re looking for something nice and small, lightweight, water-resistant and that will fit all your essentials, I’d recommend this daypack . It’s got some very handy zip-up pockets too!

Reusable water bottle   – I always recommend packing a reusable water bottle for travel. Even if you can’t drink the tap water, it means you can top up from giant bottles or water coolers rather than buying lots of plastic bottles. Personally I’d recommend the  Chilly’s water bottles . I’ve got a few in different sizes and they are excellent quality!

Power bank – I’d 100% recommend taking a portable battery pack with you as charging anything here is difficult! I have a few made by Anker and they’re great quality and have lasted for a long time. This is the one I’m using at the moment , which is really small (similar size to my phone) but stores lots of charge and has a fast charging capability. 

Plug adapter – I pack this universal travel adapter for all of my travels. It charges multiple items at once, using plugs or USB and can be used anywhere in the world. It’s one of my fave travel gadgets! You probably won’t be able to charge items in Khao Sok if you’re in a basic bungalow, but I’d still recommend one for your time in Thailand.

Dry bag – For this trip I bought a dry bag like this . It’s made from a thick plastic and is totally waterproof. It was especially useful for the cave trip! These dry bags are perfect for adventures on the water, visiting waterfalls, or if you think it’s going to rain heavily. I’d recommend a small one for your phone and camera gear, or a larger one if you want to use it as your main bag for an activity.

Waterproof phone case – Similarly, if you want to take your phone out and about in the water, I’d recommend getting a waterproof phone case. There are quite a few to choose from, but I’d recommend reading the reviews! You need this to protect your phone and be 100% watertight after all! I bought these Moko cases myself and my partner and they’ve been great. We’ve used them on several trips snorkelling and to waterfalls now, and no leaks!

Water shoes – These are essential for the cave trip, but you can hire them at the accommodation or buy in the market if you don’t want to get them in advance.

Head torch  – also available to hire or borrow in Khao Sok.

Padlock – the doors of the bungalows didn’t lock, so bring a padlock if you’re nervous about leaving any of your belongings unattended.

I’d also recommend charging everything before your trip e.g. camera batteries, kindle, phone.

Do you want to hear something funny about our trip? As we were heading to Surat Thani Airport straight after our tour, we arranged with the tour guides that we’d take all of our luggage on the trip, rather than decanting down to an overnight bag for the tour as most people do. There was a big misunderstanding, and when we arrived at the pier on the lake, we discovered our suitcases had been put in the tour operator’s office overnight. They thought we wanted them to take care of them! So we arrived at the floating bungalows without any essentials. No toothpaste, no change of clothes… just cameras, suncream, phones and what we were wearing! We managed, but it wasn’t ideal as you can imagine. If you’re planning to arrange something similar – check everyone understands the plan.

What are the floating bungalows like in Khao Sok National Park?

So here’s where my experience might vary from what you find. As we booked via our hotel in Khlong Sok, we didn’t know which raft house we’d be taken to on the Cheow Lan Lake. To be honest, I was expecting to rough it for a night in pretty basic accommodation, but I was a little surprised by just HOW basic it was.

Our bungalow had one big double mattress on the floor, with a mosquito net over it… and that was it. There were a couple of sheets, and a light outside, but that was it. It didn’t lock (hence why I mention a padlock might be useful if you’re worried about the security of any of your belongings). There was no fan, but we managed to sleep ok as the temperatures were more comfortable by the evening.

The bathroom situation was a little tricky too. There were two on either side of the site, but to reach them you had to walk across floating planks and then clamber up the side of a hill. There were toilets and showers there, but water was cold. However, the food in the restaurant was flavoursome and plentiful. 

Some of the photos I saw of the accommodation on similar tours looked a little bit less basic, so take that into consideration. To be honest, I really didn’t mind any of it as it was only for one night, and the overall experience was totally incredible, so please don’t let what I’ve said put you off. Just lower your expectations for the accommodation!

There are a few luxurious options on the lake, if you’re looking for somewhere with a few more amenities. 

Luxury places to stay in Khao Sok National Park (Cheow Lan Lake): 

500 Rai Floating Resort – The smartest option on the lake, rooms here come with AC and en-suite bathrooms. Some have outdoor jacuzzis, plus there’s a pool and restaurants on site. 

Panvaree Resort – Rooms here have proper beds, balconies, terraces, en-suite bathrooms, plus a TV and fridge. 

Overall thoughts on the two day / one night tour of Khao Sok National Park

WOW, wow and wow!! I think the photos speak for themselves, but this is such a stunning area of natural beauty – you just HAVE to visit if you get the chance. It’s not the easiest place to get to, it’s not the most luxurious of experiences, but as soon as you get there, you’ll realise you made the right decision. I absolutely loved it!

While some of my blog content is sponsored, our trip to Thailand was a holiday, and 100% funded by us! I’ve written about this experience because I felt so passionately about sharing it – I just couldn’t keep it to myself. Any questions, please leave them in the comments below or send me an email. 

Enjoyed this post? Pin it for later…

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

13 thoughts on “Everything You Need To Know About Visiting Khao Sok National Park”

Hi can you let me know from where did you book the package.? can you share me the link or name of the tour operator I am planning to visit Khao Sok in Feb 2020 will be staying at Ao Nang so also help me in way yo reach the village from Ao Nang

Hi there – I booked through Green Valley Resort where I was staying!

Thanks so much for this great post! So informative. I’ve been trying to figure out for the Nam Talu Cave tour if it’s possible for someone who doesn’t’ swim to go part of the way. How far along on the route is the area where someone would need to swim? And would it be ok if they stayed back while other people went ahead? Or do you think they could get across with a life vest? Thanks so much for any insights!

Thanks Monica! I wouldn’t risk going on it if you or someone in your party can’t swim. Water levels may vary a bit throughout the year but there was a little bit of swimming when I went, and I just worry that you wouldn’t enjoy it if you were worrying about it! I’m not totally sure if there’s an option to wear a life vest instead. A few of our group were claustraphobic or couldn’t swim, so stayed in the jungle area outside the cave. Personally, I’d skip the excursion in favour of some kayaking or something else, as it’s a longish activity to be waiting around for people, esp in a mozzie filled jungle!

Love your post and thank you, we want to do the same trip but we are staying in ao nang, and we’re looking to book the trip from here. As far as you are aware is it the same 2 day 1 night tour but we will just get the bus from (and back) to our ao nang hotel ? Kind regards Debra

Hi Debra, Thanks for your message! I actually started in Ao Nang, but it’s quite a long way to get to the nearest village to Khao Sok where the tours start from. After quite a bit of research we discovered the best option was to get a minibus to Khlong Sok, then start the 2 day / 1 night tour from there the next day. Ao Nang is pretty far so I don’t think it’d be easy to do in a shorter timeframe. Hope that helps – it’s worth the effort!

Thanks for the informative post! Just wondering a few things. What time did your tour end at on the second day? I’m just wondering if you stayed another night, or did you leave the same day for Surat Thani? We’re hoping to head to Ko Samui the same day, or is that too much travel do you think? Also, did you just book the tour with the hotel when you arrived?

Thanks a million, Maríosa

Hi Mariosa – hope I’m not too late replying. Our tour ended after lunchtime on the 2nd day. We got dropped in a nearby town to catch a bus, but most people headed back to the village where we started the tour from. I think it’s a lot to think about and plan, but it’s definitely possible to do back to back journeys. Just check all the times in advance as best you can. We booked the tour with the hotel before we arrived (via email) and then paid when we checked in. Hope that helps! Genuinely one of my fave places in the world so don’t miss it!

Hi, are there any ways I can book like this trip not with the Resort you were in? I’m just a backpacker. Thanks❤️

It’s best to go on a tour as the transport part can be tricky otherwise. You can try to arrange directly with one of the accommodations on the lake. They can then organise transport to pick you up.

Hello there, I know it’s 2023 but I was wondering if you could answer a question. If I wanted to stay three nights in Khlong Sok village and Khao Sok national park (one stop on my backpacking journey), should I book three nights at the hotel, and then book a 2D/1N tour OR should I book one night at a hotel, book the tour (which is one night) and then book another night back in Khlong Sok village. Basically what I’m trying to say is, is the your included in your ‘three night’ stay at the hotel, or are they separate I guess? – I’m very sorry if this is too confusing to understand, I’m just trying to budget as best as possible.

Also, whenever I seem to try and find hotels/places to stay around Khlong Sok village on google, all that comes up is Khoa Sok National Park accommodations in the lake. Is there a way around this, or do I need to just be more specific with my searches.

Thank you so much,

Hi Nye, Thanks for your message. I’m not sure I totally understand but when we visited we booked a hotel in Khlong Sok, then went on the 2D/1N tour as a separate arrangement. It wasn’t one of the nights included in the tour. If you’re struggling to find accommodation I’d recommend using Booking.com and dragging around the map to find Khlong Sok. Sometimes places don’t come up on their own, but you should be able to find it. I hope that helps! Chloe

I completely understand your question and wondering if you did end up booking 3nights or 1 night then tour then 1 night again? I’m in the process of planning my own trip.

Also thankyou for this post Chloe, very informative.

Cheers, Emily

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Khao Sok National Park: The Complete Guide

Tanatat Pongphibool/Getty Images

Things to Do

Water sports, best hikes and trails, where to camp, where to stay nearby, how to get there, tips for your visit, khao sok national park.

Khao Sok National Park in Thailand combines an aquatic and wilderness experience into one expansive park. Covering 285 square miles in Surat Thani Province south of Phuket , the park consists of a 64 square-mile artificial reservoir (Cheow Lan Lake) surrounded by karst cliffs and old-growth jungle.

The Ratchaprapha Dam that created the reservoir was completed in 1982. Prior to the dam’s completion and Khao Sok’s gazetting as a National Park, the area was overrun by Communist rebels, who were able to prevent loggers and miners from stripping the countryside bare. Thankfully free of rebels today, Khao Sok’s jungle and lake represent two different zones in the park, with two different experiences depending on which one you visit.

Visitors to the park must pay an entrance fee of THB 300 (about $9) upon entry. Between the official park activities and arranged itineraries from your Khlong Sok hotel or resort, you can create a Khao Sok to-do list that squeezes the most out of the jungle-covered karst landscape.

From the visitors’ center, you can pitch a tent, explore the jungle trails, and find your way to the park’s waterfalls and caves. From the Ratchaprapha Dam entrance, you can book boat safaris that explore the jungle skirting the lakeshore and the majestic karst cliffs rising from the water. Guided treks through the park can be arranged at the visitors’ center. Beyond the regular daytime treks, you can also arrange a “night safari”, where guides take visitors around well-established short trails after dark. Expect to encounter nocturnal animals like pygmy deer, slow loris, and a glorious chorus of grasshoppers and cicadas.

Private tour companies around Khlong Sok (and the hotels, by extension) can arrange other tours, like visits to the Khao Sok Elephant Sanctuary and their four rescue elephants; jungle cooking lessons using rustic materials like bamboo cylinders over glowing charcoal; and cycling tours of the Khao Sok countryside.

lkunl/Getty Images

The Sok River is accessible from the Visitors’ Center. Private tour companies can arrange canoe, rafting or rubber-tubing expeditions down the river, where you can paddle or drift with the current and enjoy the jungle sights and sounds while you float by.

Visitors to Cheow Lan Lake have far more watersports options available to them, and a much more striking backdrop to their activities: the karst cliffs and glowing emerald waters look glorious, particularly when seen from a kayak you’re paddling yourself.

Motorized tourist boats can also take tourists around the lake’s many corners. Regular lake tours make the most of the awesome lake views, while boat safaris hover closer to shore, all the better to spot native wildlife like longtail macaques, great hornbills, or even elephants pausing to take a drink!

Trekkers hitting the hiking trails in Khao Sok National Park will find the experience to be well worth the challenge. And it really is challenging, at least for the longer trails. For instance, the waterfalls are at their most scenic during the rainy season between May and November, and are a major attraction for hikers—but the rains also bring mud and leeches.

Beyond a few marked self-guided trails, the park requires that you hire experienced guides to take you through the longer ones. Guides charge THB 600 (about $18) for a half-day’s hike, and can be hired either at the Visitors’ Center, through private travel companies, or your local hotel.

The trails range from moderate to difficult. Threats from tigers and boa constrictors are rare, but the monkeys can be aggressive to visitors. Bring plenty of drinking water and mosquito repellent.

Wear loose-fitting long pants, long-sleeved hiking shirts , and hiking sandals . Hiking boots will only get wet and very, very heavy along the way.

• Khao Sok Main Trail: The first section of this 2.8-mile trail extends east from the park’s western entrance, skirting the Sok River and going through thick jungle. This part is easy, and can be easily attempted by beginners. That’s not the case once you get past the halfway point, guarded by a ranger station. The trail gets muddier, and more dangerous for the less sure-footed, until the trail’s end at Ton Kloi Waterfall.
• Bang Man Cave Trail: This scenic but challenging trail begins at the Bang Man Village and takes visitors right through a cave at one point. Hikes may be canceled without notice on account of the weather—heavy rains can flood the cave, killing any hikers foolish enough to be stuck inside.
• Orchid Trail: starting at the Main Trail, the three-mile Orchid Trail veers south and crosses the Sok River through parts of the jungle that are overgrown with wild orchids and the Rafflesia, if you go during its blooming season from November to March.
• Sip Et Chan Trail: starting at the park entrance, the Sip Et Chan Trail goes some 2.5 miles north along the Bang Laen River through thick jungle. Birds like bamboo woodpeckers and great hornbills may be spotted by trekkers along the way. The trail ends at the Sip Et Chan Waterfall, an 11-tiered waterfall where you can stop for a picnic before heading back.

Wuttisak Promchoo/Getty Images

The campsite next to the Visitors’ Center sits at the head of two trails into the park, and is the perfect balance of price and location for a full Khao Sok experience. Expect only basic, cold-water shower and toilet facilities and a rudimentary cafe in the premises. Tents, blankets, pillows, sheets and sleeping bags are also available for rent.

Outside the park gates, a few private properties offer camping and glamping experiences with a little more comfort.

• Khai Jungle Experience : located just beyond the park entrance, this campsite offers a choice of tents or bamboo huts, set in the proprietor’s own back yard. Breakfast and dinner are also available, served from the outdoor kitchen. Rates start at THB 250 ($7.50).
• Khaosok Boutique Camps : Just off Highway 401 some six miles from the Visitors’ Center, this camping-style resort provides guests with air-conditioned tents with furnished decks and bathrooms en suite. Its hillside location offers great views of the surrounding landscape. Other onsite facilities include a restaurant, cafe, and outdoor swimming pool. Rates start at around THB 1,800 ($53.50).
• Tanoshi Glamping : Guests stay in large luxury tents with built-in hammocks and terraces overlooking Surat Thani. Located six miles from the park entrance, Tanoshi compensates for the distance with creature comforts and tour packages for trekking and other activities in Khao Sok.

You can choose from two types of park-run accommodations within the park grounds: the basic accommodations around the visitors’ center, and the floating cabins on Cheow Lan Lake. If you’d like to sample the private accommodations outside park limits, you’ll have more to choose from, for as high (or as low) a budget as you can manage.

Most of your accommodation options off the visitors’ center can be found in the nearest town, Khlong Sok. Your budget options (hostel beds or private rooms at budget hotels) can go for as low as THB 300 in Khlong Sok. The more you can afford to pay, the more varied (and more comfortable) your options: from bamboo huts to treehouses to luxury villas.

All Khlong Sok accommodations provide access to paid tours, car and driver packages, and boat trips to the lake.

• Anurak Community Lodge : Don’t expect hotel-style comforts like a swimming pool or in-room TV. Instead, Anurak Community Lodge promises closeness to nature through stilted bungalows nestled close to the jungle. Prices start at THB 1,800 baht ($53.50) a night.
• Baan Khao Sok Resort : This family-owned resort is a comfortable budget-boutique hotel in Khlong Sok, with garden bungalows and treehouses starting at THB 1,500 ($44.50) a night.
• Montania Lifestyle Hotel : The establishment’s Thai-style villas and swimming pool overlooking the valley are among the Montania’s top draws: a great example of the kind of inexpensive luxury you can expect in Khlong Sok. Prices start at THB 1,800 baht ($53.50) a night.

Visitors to Cheow Lan Lake can stay on the waters, by booking a floating bungalow from either the Park or from private rafthouses. When you stay on a floating bungalow, you can take in the waters as you please: dive into the lake right from your bungalow; go kayaking; or enjoy the gorgous karst backdrop.

• Nang Prai : This is Cheow Lan’s most popular park-run rafthouse, due to its central lake location and views of the karst cliffs that have granted it the nickname “Little Guilin”. Basic accommodations, but you can’t beat the view.
• Khlong Kha : Set at the southernmost part of Cheow Lan Lake, Klong Ka is another park-run rafthouse with basic but scenic bamboo bungalows. Modern-style rooms are available, but are often booked long in advance.
• Keeree Warin Deluxe Floating Villas : like Krai Son, Keeeree Warin enjoys the wildlife-driven advantages of its Klong Yee location; unlike the park-run rafthouses, this private establishment offers two-storey deluxe floating bungalows and electricity that doesn’t cut out late at night!
• 500 Rai Floating Resort : this privately-owned rafthouse offers both “family” and “honeymoon” floating villas on Klong Long on the western end of Cheow Lan Lake. Their bigger villas are recommended for larger groups, and those with extra money to pay for creature comforts like air-conditioning, hot showers, and wooden finishes.

Chakkraphong Jinthawet/Getty Images

There are two entrances into Khao Sok National Park, separated by some 30 miles in between. The western entrance leads into the park headquarters from Khlong Sok. The eastern entrance goes to the Ratchaprapha Pier, where you can book rafthouse stays and boat safaris on Cheow Lan Lake.

The nearest airport to Khao Sok is Surat Thani Airport (IATA: URT). The Park entrance is also accessible by bus services from Phuket, Krabi and Surat Thani town. Public transport will only drop you off at the Park entrance and the on Highway 401; walk 1.2 miles to the Visitors’ Center once you disembark. To get to Ratchaprapha Pier, you can take a minibus from Surat Thani Airport, or hire a car and driver to take you there.

If you’ve pre-booked a stay at one of the hotels or resorts in the area, arrange a private pickup from the airport or any of the towns along the highway (Khlong Sok or Ban Ta Khun, the stop along Highway 401 to Ratchaprapha Pier).

• Khao Sok is one of Thailand’s wettest areas, receiving record amounts of rainfall during the rainy season between May and November. The rain will determine the kind of activities you can do when you visit: activities like jungle camping and caving at Nam Talu will be banned in the rainy season. On the other hand, higher water volume and swifter currents make Sok River canoeing or tubing more fun during the rainy season.
• Khao Sok’s caves can be visited through the park’s guided trails, but require some physical strength and agility to enjoy. Some caves are easy to explore, like the Pakaran Cave; Nam Talu Cave, on the other hand, requires wearing head torches and wading through an underground stream.
• Some floating bungalows are run by the Park management. These offer little beyond the basics: mattresses on the floor, cold-water bathrooms, and electricity that cuts off at 10 p.m. Park-run bungalows can only be booked within two days in advance.
• Large animals can usually be spotted along the lakeside during early mornings (no later than 7 a.m.) or before sunset. 

Hiking Project. " Khao Sok Main Trail. " 2019

Khao Sok Riverside Cottages, " Khao Sok Park Cave Hike ," 2015

Hiking Project. "Orchid Trail." 2019

Hiking Project. " Sip Et Chan Trail. " 2019

The 9 Best Day Trips from Phuket, Thailand

Banff National Park: The Complete Guide

Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda: The Complete Guide

Mohican State Park: The Complete Guide

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: The Complete Guide

Poas Volcano National Park: The Complete Guide

Yosemite National Park: The Complete Guide

Akaka Falls State Park: The Complete Guide

Congaree National Park: The Complete Guide

Great Basin National Park: The Complete Guide

Thingvellir National Park: The Complete Guide

Yellowstone National Park: The Complete Guide

Cunningham Falls State Park: The Complete Guide

Tadoba National Park and Tiger Reserve: The Complete Guide

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: The Complete Guide

Nagarhole National Park and Tiger Reserve: A Complete Guide

TAT LICENSE NO. 33/07658

• Khao Sok Day Trip
• Cheow Larn Lake Day Trip
• Khao Sok – Cheow Larn Lake 2 Days 1 Night
• Cheow Larn Lake 2 Days 1 Night
• Khao Sok 2 Days 1 Night
• Khao Sok – Jungle Camping 3 Days 2 Nights
• Khao Sok - Cheow Larn Lake 3 Days 2 Nights
• Khao Sok - Jungle Camping – Cheow Larn Lake 4 Days 3 Nights
• Photo Gallery

KHAO SOK CENTRE TOURS & KHAO SOK REVER LODGE -->

- Cheow Larn Lake -

- Canoeing -

- Elephant Trekking -

- Jungle Trekking -

- River Lodge -

Welcome to Khao sok centre tours

WE ARE THE ORIGINAL COMPANY MORE THAN 20 YEARS IN KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK, OUR COMPANY POLICIES: SAFETY STANDARD & PROFESSIONALITY, REGISTERED AND APPROVED BY THE TOURISM AUTHORITY OF THAILAND LICENCE NO. 33/07658

answer the call of the wild

Whether you are on armchair explorer vicariously visiting Khao Sok or a rugged adventure about to embark on a trek traversing the park' s uncharted terrain, you are about to enter part of the oldest and richest terrestrial ecosystem on Earth.

The world has spared few places as wild, wonderful or wildly diverse as Khao Sok National Park. Together with two wildlife sanctuaries (Klong Saen & Klong Nakkha) and two adjacent national parks (Sri Phang nga and Klong Phanom Nat. Parks),

TOUR PROGRAMMES

(Start from Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi and Suratthani)

(Included overnight at Khao Sok River Lodge) (Start from Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi and Suratthani)

(Included overnight at  Floating Bungalows) (Start from Phuket, Khao Lak, Krabi and Suratthani)

All Tour Programmes

TESTIMONIAL

These reviews that our clients have recently submitted are the best way to learn more about our Khao Sok Centre Tours’s level of service and customer support

For information

Address: 6/2 Moo 6 T.Klong Sok, A. Phanom, Suratthani 84250 Thailand

Tel: +66 (0)89 725 2277, +66 (0)77 395 165 Fax: +66 (0)77 395 166 E-mail: [email protected] Web Design by Express Data

• Tour Programmes

Join our newsletter

Tat license no. 33/07658.

Khao Sok Lake Tours

Enjoy the amazing Cheow Lan Lake tours in the Khao Sok National Park

The Khao Sok National Park, located in Surat Thani, southern Thailand, is a stunning and diverse natural area that offers a range of tours and activities for visitors. Here are some popular tours you can enjoy at Khao Sok National Park:

• Take a boat tour on the picturesque Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush rainforest.
• Visit the stunning Guilin of Thailand, a group of limestone karst formations rising from the water.
• Explore caves and marvel at the natural beauty of the lake.
• Khao Sok is known for its dense rainforest, and there are various trekking trails catering to different fitness levels.
• Guided jungle treks allow you to discover the rich biodiversity, including various plant and animal species.
• Longer treks may include overnight stays in the jungle, providing a unique and immersive experience.
• Some tour operators offer ethical elephant experiences, where you can interact with and learn about these majestic creatures in a responsible and sustainable manner.
• Avoid tours that involve riding elephants, as this practice is often considered harmful to the animals.
• Paddle through the Sok River or Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and vibrant greenery.
• Canoeing and kayaking allow you to explore the park at a relaxed pace, taking in the serene beauty of the landscape.
• Khao Sok is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 bird species inhabiting the park.
• Guided bird-watching tours can help you spot a variety of colorful and exotic birds.
• Embark on a night safari to witness the nocturnal wildlife of Khao Sok.
• With the help of a guide, you may spot unique creatures such as night-active insects, frogs, and maybe even some elusive mammals.
• Enjoy a relaxing day by Sok River, where you can swim, tube, or simply appreciate the peaceful surroundings.
• Hike to one of the viewpoints within the park for breathtaking panoramic views of the rainforest and limestone formations.

The Best tours in Khao Sok

The most amazing tours in the Khao Sok National Park by Jungle Huts.

Khao Sok Lake Tours by Jungle Huts in the Khao Sok National Park offers you a wide variety of tours: Rajjaprabha Dam Reservoir , Bamboo rafting tour , trekking, Rafflesia tour and many more! Contact us .

The Cheow Lan Lake, also known as Rajjaprabha Dam Reservoir, is a stunning freshwater lake located within Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand. The lake was created in 1982 when the Ratchaprapha Dam was constructed across the Phuket River. This reservoir submerged a vast area of lush jungle and limestone cliffs, resulting in the formation of Cheow Lan Lake.

Cheow Lan lake tour 3 day 2 nights

This tour could easily become the highlight of your Thailand holiday. We take you to the reservoir that was created behind the Ratchaprapha dam. We cross the crystal clear green water by longtail boat rugged lime stone cliffs towering on either side. Trekking includes passing through Namtaloo cave (Water Cave). We stay at one of the floating raft houses in tranquil surroundings…

This is a 3 day 2 nights amazing tour which includes a room in our resort Khao Sok Jungle Huts for 1 night with breakfast and also a night safari on the first night. The second night will be spent at Cheaow Lan Lake in the Khao Sok National Park.

• Price: 3,099 baht / person
• Price does not include the National Park entrance fee, which costs 220 baht

Bamboo Rafting Tour

You can raft on a bamboo raft for about 1 hour. Spot snakes, monkeys, gibbons and many more. Observe the nature of the Khlong Sok River.

• Price for 1 people: 1.200 baht
• Two people or more, price 700 baht each
• The price includes everything. There is no extra money to pay.

Overnight trip on the lake 2 Days 1 Night

Longtail boat ride on one of the most beautiful and unique lakes in the world, the Cheow Lan Lake. Enjoy kayaking, relax and swim Overnight at the lake in the heart of nature.

Khao Sok National Park

“Please feel free to contact us for more information and reservation”

✓ Price 2500 baht per person (minimum 2 persons) ✓ The price does not includes the park entrance fee of 240 baht per person.

Full Day Exploration Lake trip

Explore the Cheow Lan Lake in the jungle by local long tail boat. The lake is surrounded by Limestone Mountains and cliffs covered in tropical rainforest that rise up from the shore of the lake and disappear into the far distance.

✓ Price 1500 baht per person

✓ The price does not includes the park entrance fee of 240 baht per person.

Here are some key features and information about Cheow Lan Lake:

1. Location: Cheow Lan Lake is situated in Khao Sok National Park, which is part of the Surat Thani Province in southern Thailand. The park is known for its ancient rainforest, diverse wildlife, and dramatic limestone formations.


2. Size and Depth: The lake is expansive, covering an area of about 165 square kilometers. It is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush jungle. The depth of the lake varies, with some areas reaching depths of over 100 meters.


3. Flora and Fauna : The lake and its surrounding areas are rich in biodiversity. The rainforest around the lake is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including elephants, gibbons, hornbills, and numerous fish species in the lake. The park is also known for its diverse and unique flora.


4. Activities: Cheow Lan Lake is a popular destination for ecotourism and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy boat tours on the lake, exploring the limestone karsts and hidden coves. The lake’s clear waters make it suitable for swimming and kayaking. Jungle treks and wildlife watching are also popular activities in the surrounding rainforest.


5. Accommodations : There are floating raft houses and lodges available on the lake, providing visitors with a unique accommodation experience. Staying in these floating accommodations allows guests to immerse themselves in the tranquility of the lake and its surroundings.


6. Access: The most common way to access Cheow Lan Lake is through the town of Khao Sok. From there, visitors can take a boat ride to explore the lake and its attractions. The lake is relatively remote, surrounded by the dense rainforest of Khao Sok National Park.


Cheow Lan Lake is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and is considered one of Thailand’s hidden gems, offering a peaceful and pristine natural environment for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Khao Sok Tigerman Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Khao Sok Tigerman Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Work With Us
• Blogging Bootcamp

• Van Conversion Academy
• Campervan Shop
• Campervan Rentals
• Plan a Trip
• Itineraries
• Destinations
• Responsible Travel
• Family Travel
• Budget Travel
• Scuba Diving
• Travel Credit Cards
• Digital Nomad
• Teach English Abroad
• Blogging Resources
• Income Reports
• Travel Shop
• Meet Katie & Ben
• About Two Wandering Soles
• Personal Stuff
• Portfolio & Press

Khao Sok National Park & Floating Bungalows Travel Guide

Home » Blog » Thailand » Khao Sok National Park & Floating Bungalows Travel Guide

If you’re traveling in Thailand and are seeking untouched nature and a bit of adventure without the crowds, Khao Sok National Park should be on your itinerary.

We have been wanting to get there for a few years, but each time we traveled to the south of Thailand , we decided it was too far out of the way. Now that we’ve been there, we can’t believe it took us so long!

Khao Sok National Park is located in southern Thailand and is known for its ancient rainforest and diverse wildlife.

Imagine centuries old bamboo forests, towering limestone karst cliffs, and a lake that will blow you away… Those are just a few of the sights you’ll find in this spectacular national park.

If you’re convinced to add Khao Sok to your travels in Thailand, keep reading. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip!

Planning your trip to Khao Sok National Park

Visiting Khao Sok National Park requires a bit of planning and a sense of adventure; plus it takes a bit of time to get there. But the inconvenience means you won’t find the same hordes of crowds as on the beaches in Phuket or the temples in Bangkok.

And Khao Sok isn’t exactly the type of place you come to get wasted, lay on the beach and hook up, so it attracts a different type of traveler than the Full Moon Parties and popular islands.

To be honest, there’s not a ton of information about Khao So National Park online, and the stuff that’s out there can be a bit tricky to navigate. We had a hell of a time researching and figuring out how to get to Khao Sok and what to do while we were there.

So we’ve put together this complete guide to serve as a resource for other travelers who want to add a visit to Khao Sok National Park to their Thailand itinerary.

When to visit Khao Sok National Park

The tricky thing about Khao Sok is that it is in the middle of the Thailand peninsula so the weather on both coasts effects the area. It is typical for it to rain a little bit every day (it is the rainforest after all), but it won’t be down pouring for hours. 

The dry season:  is from November to April, but still be prepared to for showers and muddy hikes. The dry season is the best time to visit Khao Sok.

The wet season: is from May to October and we’ve been told that it’s pretty difficult to visit Khao Sok during this time because many things are closed. You can still go, but your activities may be limited.

Everything you need to pack for Thailand

Khao Sok National Park

First, you have to understand that Khao Sok National Park is divided into two sections:

Khlong Sok town

Cheow Lan Lake

Khlong sok town.

The town is the easiest section of the park to reach from Phuket and Khao Lak, and is likely where you’ll enter Khao Sok.

While I wouldn’t describe Khao Sok as super touristy, just like any National Park, most everyone visiting is a tourist. The town is small but has plenty of restaurants, guesthouses, little convenience stores, ATMs and a couple bars. The town itself is more or less a base for exploring the park, so there’s not a ton to do, but it’s not a terrible place to spend a couple nights.

The entrance to Cheow Lan Lake is located 65 kilometers away from the Khlong Sok town and the lake section of the park is likely what you’re imagining in your head. If you search Khao Sok on Google images, this is the part of the park you’ll see.

Things to do in Khao Sok

Keeping in mind that there are two sections to the national park (the town and the lake), there are many things to in each section. 

Adventures around Khlong Sok town

Khlong Sok is the most popular place to stay, and is a good hopping off point for many activities.

1. Hiking in the National Park

There are many hiking trails that will take you by small waterfalls and swimming holes. However, you are technically only allowed to venture 3 km into the national park without a guide.

If you want go any further, we highly recommend hiring a guide. The jungle gets pretty wild and we had a hard time figuring out where to go at times. 

2. Hike the western trail to Than Sawan Waterfall

There are many small waterfalls and spots to swim along the trail the is parallel to the river. The first part is nice with huge bamboo trees and if you’re lucky you will see monkeys jumping around above you.

About 3 km into the hike is a small shelter that sells water, soda, and fresh pineapple for a snack. After this shelter the trail gets narrower and hard to find at times.

If you continue on toward Than Sawan Waterfall, you will have to cross the Sok River. We do not advise to continue across the river without a guide. Total hike one way is 6 km. 

3. Hike the northern trail to Sip Et Chan Waterfall

Similar to the Than Sawan Waterfall, it is not smart to go past the 3 km mark without a guide. The total hike is 6 km one way. 

4. River Tubing

More popular during the rainy season when the Sok River is higher, you can rent intertubes and float down the river. There are a few companies in town that provide transportation to the start and pick up. Duration: 1 – 1.5 hours. Cost: 400 – 500 baht per person.

5. Canoe Trip

If the thought of dangling in the water while tubing is not for you, maybe you want to try canoeing. You can visit small villages along the river and a short hike to a cave along your 2.5 hour trip. Cost: 800 baht per person. 

6. Bamboo rafting

Get off the beaten path with this guide-led adventure on a floating bamboo raft. You’ll float down the river as your guide points out different wildlife and interesting plants. You’ll get off to explore a cave and do a little trekking. Duration: 5 hours. Cost: 1200 baht per person

7. Hike to see the Rafflesia flower

Blooming only from December to March, the Rafflesia flower is one of the largest flowers in the world, growing up to one meter wide. This hike is lead by a guide into the national park (300 baht per day). The tour includes transportation to the start of the trail and an English speaking guide. Duration: 3-5 hours depending on location of flower. Cost: 900 baht per person

8. Night Safari

The jungle comes alive at night. Join this tour lead by a knowledgable guide that will show you a whole different jungle at night. Duration: 2 hours. Cost: 600 baht per person

Trip to the Cheow Lan Lake

While we enjoyed our time in the town and exploring the trails, the lake was by far the highlight of Khao Sok National Park for us. If you have only a couple days, this is where you should spend most of your time.

Navigating the lake is a bit tricky.

Basically, you can go to the lake 3 ways:

Day Tour: Several companies in town offer day trips to Cheow Lan Lake. Prices hover around 1,500 baht per person (though you can probably find cheaper or spend more). This includes minivan transport to and from the lake, meals, a guide and a longtail boat ride.

Overnight Tour: Many companies in town offer overnight tours to the lake. We would recommend Smileys Overnight Tour to the lake bungalows for 2,500 baht (plus the 300 baht park fee). This includes 5 meals (2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner), a lake bungalow, transportation to and from the lake, morning and night boat safaris, and a 3 hour hike and cave trek.

Independently: You can rent a motorbike in the town of Khlong Sok for around 300 baht per day. You can then make your way over to the dam (1 – 1.5 hours). The stretch of road is 60 kilometers and not difficult if you’ve driven before. Once you arrive at the lake, you can find a longtail boat driver. From the research we’ve done, it seems it is a set price of 1,500 baht to hire a boat and you can fit up to 6 people inside. This means the more people you have, the cheaper it is per person.

Our recommendation: We highly recommend booking an overnight tour, and we’ll explain why.

Why Overnight?

The day tours seemed really rushed, and it’s likely you’ll run into other groups wherever you go. Considering you’ll need to pay for meals and accommodation either way, the overnight tour isn’t that much more expensive, and it is totally worthwhile!

Why not independently?

We typically like to do things like this independently, as we find it is usually quite a bit cheaper and we like exploring at our own pace. That said, after adding up all the costs, it seems that going to the lake independently would only be about $10 USD cheaper than going through a tour company.

Plus, going with a company means everything is taken care of for you so you don’t need to drive yourself, hire a boat driver, and book the bungalows in advance.

Lastly, we drove past the government-run bungalows and they looked, well, a little disheveled. The bungalows we stayed at through Smiley’s weren’t anything fancy, but they appeared much more comfortable than the ones you’d get going on your own.

We did a little research, and from what we found online and by comparing prices in town, Smileys Bungalow offers a pretty good deal when it comes to the overnight lake tour.

Another option: We stayed at Our Jungle Camp in town and they offer an overnight lake tour as well. At 3,050 baht per person, it was a bit more expensive, but the accommodation would likely be a bit nicer. However, it seemed like a bit older and more family-oriented crowd than the younger clientele at Smiley’s, so we chose the latter.

We had a fantastic experience with Smileys, and we would definitely recommend it.

(Note: This article is in no way sponsored; we just want to share our experience.)

Overnight Trip to Floating Bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake with Smiley Guesthouse

I’ll start by saying that while our guide was friendly and helpful, we didn’t always know what to expect. We’re breaking down the schedule of your overnight lake excursion so you have a good idea of what exactly you’ll be doing!

Note: times may change slightly

8 a.m. arrive at Smileys for free breakfast (fried eggs, toast, jam and instant coffee)

8:30/9 a.m. shuttle departs (makes a 20 minute stop at a 7-11 where you can pick up snacks or take out money at the ATM)

10:30 a.m. longtail boat ride to the floating bungalows. The scenery is beautiful, and as long as the weather is clear, it shouldn’t be too bumpy of a ride.

11:30 a.m. arrive at lake house and check into your room. If you’d like a padlock and key as well as towels, you must provide a 500 baht deposit. It will be returned when you check out.

11:45 a.m. free time to swim, kayak or rest in a hammock

1 p.m. Lunch time! Expect rice, curries, fried vegetables, fresh fruit, etc. Vegetarian options are available.

1:30 p.m. free time: kayak to nearby “islands”, read in a hammock, socialize with new friends, play cards, nap, have a beer!

Hot Tip: Our personal favorite activity for free time: Diaper Float! Put your life jacket on upside down. (put your legs through the arm holes and buckle it in front). This makes it super comfortable and easy to float in the water! You’ll thank us later for this life hack!

5 p.m. Night Safari: This is basically a ride in the longtail boat to observe wildlife and see more of the lake. We saw wild boar, some birds and monkeys.You won’t be getting out of the boat, so don’t worry about having sturdy shoes. All you need is a camera!

6 p.m. return to bungalows and relax or freshen up

7 p.m. Dinner!

8 p.m. Drinks, socializing, games, entertainment!

After dinner, most people stuck around the common area and ordered drinks. You can purchase beer (Chang) for 80 baht, mixed drinks for 150 baht or buckets for 350 baht.

Ben and I shared a bucket (and eventually ordered another!), and we found it to be a good deal compared to getting single cocktails. Bonus/Warning: They make the buckets quite strong! And don’t forget your reuseable straw .

The son of one of the workers did a little “fire show” with a stick that had flashlights attached to either end, which was cute. He also changed into a little Muay Thai outfit and showed off a bit. After his time in the spotlight, our tour guide, Guy, put on a quick fire show (with real fire, not flashlights!).

The common area got quite lively, with people playing beer pong, Jenga, cards and jumping into the lake. This lasted until around midnight, when the staff stopped selling beer, and the majority of people went to bed.

Hot tip: Be sure to check out the stars if it is a clear night. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you could even take a kayak out to really see them surrounded by blackness.

6:00 a.m. enjoy the sunrise (optional, but we recommend at least opening your eyes and peeking outside!)

6:45 a.m. grab a (instant) coffee or tea in the common area if you need some caffeine

7:00 a.m. “Morning Safari” – again, this is a boat ride, where you’ll look out for wildlife and see more of the lake

8:00 a.m. Breakfast

8:30 a.m. pack your bags and check out of your room (get your deposit back). You can store your bags in the common area.

9:00 a.m. Nam Talu Cave trek – this is definitely a highlight!

30-minute longtail boat ride

hour-long easy hike through the jungle until you reach the cave

hour-long hike through the cave

We’ve explored a lot of caves on our travels, but none have been quite like this one! You’ll see bats, TONS of spiders, crickets and fish in this cave. Also, much of the time you’ll be walking through water.

Expect water that is chest-deep in some places (if you’re short like me!), and a few narrow areas. It was a really fun (and adventurous!) experience.

Smileys provides water shoes and headlamps if you don’t have your own.

Tip: Bring a dry bag on this trek!

1:00 p.m. return to lake house and have lunch

2:30 p.m. longtail boat departs

3:30 p.m. minivan ride back to town

4:30 p.m. arrive back at Smiley Guesthouse in Khlong Sok.

Smiley Lake House Resort

Smiley Resort is laid out with a central restaurant and common space with walkways on either end that connect to bungalows. There are 4 types of bungalows, and it seems like the type you get depends on who you book your tour through.

If you book directly through Smileys (like we did), you get the nicest bungalows. The other, more basic bungalows are filled with people on longer tours of Thailand for whom this is just one stop on the itinerary.

There are about 40 bungalows in total, and during our stay, there were roughly 80 people staying there, though the tour groups kind of stick to themselves, so it was kind of segregated.

We had 7 people in our group, and another group joined us later. The group was varied, with three solo female travelers from the UK and the US, a middle-aged French couple and us.

The Floating Bungalows

The bungalows are basic, but nice. Ours had two queen mattresses on a platform, a loft and big windows that let in lots of light. We had a toilet (which sort of worked), as well as a shower and sink in a small outdoor area in the back of the bungalow.

If you’re expecting luxury, this isn’t it. But if you’re okay with basic accommodation for a night, we think you’ll really enjoy your stay!

Noteworthy: There were two fans, which kept the room quite cool, but little after midnight the power is shut off. If you don’t have your windows open (like us!), you’ll wake up sweating! Once we opened up all the windows, it cooled down quite a bit. (The bugs weren’t bad while we were there!)

How to book overnight tour to Cheow Lan Lake

You can fill out this inquiry form online and you’ll receive a message back from Smileys to confirm your stay. You’ll pay in cash in person.

You can also call Smileys to make your reservation or show up in person, though you might risk it being fully booked. We were fine booking 2 days in advance, but it might be a good idea to book further in advance, especially during the busiest part of the season.

What to pack to Cheow Lan Lake Khao Sok

It is a good idea to pack a small bag to bring with you to the lake and leave everything else behind in town. Smileys will even store it for you, which makes travel to and from the lake so much more pleasant.

Here’s what you should pack for your overnight trip:

Dry bag : This is seriously a lifesaver when traveling in the Thai islands, and it was essential while we were in Khao Sok. We were able to stash our phones, wallet, cameras and other valuables inside while kayaking and trekking through water. You can buy one like this before your trip, or you can find all different sizes for sale in the south of Thailand. We have a 10-liter dry bag and are happy with the size (not too big, but fits my big DSLR comfortably) and I believe we paid about 800 baht when we purchased it in Koh Tao 2.5 years ago. It’s still kickin’!

Playing Cards

Reusable straw : At night, a lot of people will hang around the common area and socialize over drinks. Enjoy yours with a reusable straw instead of the plastic kind!

Water bottle: they provide drinking water, so you can simply fill it up

Chacos (or similar shoes – good for trekking and getting wet): Smiley’s also provides water shoes if you do not have your own, but we are always more comfortable in our own pair

Bug spray/balm

Book/ Kindle

Towel: You can use a towel at the lakehouse if you provide a 500 baht deposit, which is returned to you once you return the towel.

Headlamp : You will be given a headlamp on the cave hike (you need it!), but they were pretty smelly and mine was super tight, giving me a headache. If you have your own and it’s bright, it’s not a bad idea to bring it along.

Clothes for trekking you don’t mind getting wet

Swim suit cover up

Comfy outfit for lounging

Snacks: meals are great and all you can eat, but if you like to snack between meals bring your own food since there is nowhere to buy anything at the lake house.

A note on Internet: There is WiFi and 3G (slow) cell service in the town, but you will be out of cell signal while on the lake. On Smileys brochure, it says when the weather is good they can have AIS cell service from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. During our visit, there was no signal even though the weather was great. It wasn’t a big deal for us, since we were happy to disconnect, but we know it’s nice to have a heads up so you’re prepared!

Getting to and from Khao Sok

When you arrive, the minivan will drop you off at the bus stop right on Highway 401. The closest guesthouses are about 1 km away, so it is possible to walk. But if you have bags and it is hot, it might be worthwhile to take a shared taxi truck (songthaew). No matter where you are headed, the price is 50 baht per person.

Tip: Some of the higher end guesthouses may provide shuttle services, so check ahead of time.

Getting out of Khao Sok can be a bit difficult depending on where you are headed next. All transportation leaves from the same bus stop you got dropped off at on Highway 401. You can book public buses to Phuket (220 baht, 4 hours to Phuket Town) or to Surat Thani from the mini mart on the south side of Highway 401. 

Where to stay in Khao Sok National Park

We stayed at two different places in Khao Sok (Khlong Sok town). Originally, we booked one night at Our Jungle Camp because we weren’t sure when we’d do the lake tour. But they were fully booked on the second day, so we had to move.

Here are the two places we stayed. We really liked both of them (for different reasons):

Our Jungle Camp Eco Resort

Beautiful location (but 1 km from town)

On-site restaurant with yummy food!

Nice bungalow and gorgeous view for enjoying an afternoon drink

Families, couples and overall more mature crowd

Monkey Mansion

younger crowd

located closer to town

Note: Many of the guesthouses in Khao Sok National Park are on the rustic side. If you are very picky and will not be happy in basic accommodation or seeing a bug or two in your room, you may want to choose a higher end hotel.

Are you planning a trip to Thailand?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Thailand and destinations throughout the country. Check out our Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

How to Travel Sustainably in Thailand and Why You Should Care

16 Epic Things to Do in Koh Lipe: Thailand’s Island Paradise

17 Amazing Things To Do in Koh Lanta, Thailand

16 Unique and Cheap Things to Do in Bangkok That You Can’t Miss

Do you like this article? Save it to Pinterest.

We want to hear from you!

Are you planning to visit Khao Sok National Park? What questions do you have while planning your trip? Comment below and we’ll do our best to answer!

Comments (27) on “ Khao Sok National Park & Floating Bungalows Travel Guide ”

Thanks so much for this. Would you recommend with kids?

Brilliant post, we just finished our 2 day 1 night Lake tour with Smileys and all your info was perfectly accurate! Just to note we travelled from and back to Phuket and found it difficult to check bus times in advance etc. Public bus goes from Phuket Bus Terminal 2 to Surat Thani, stopping at Khao Sok bus stop if you let the bus driver know. Current cost (Jan 2020) is 200baht per person and last bus of the day is at 13.40. Terminal 2 is outside of town but there’s a shuttle ‘pink bus’ from T1 (in Old Town) to T2 for 15 Baht per person which departs every 20mins and takes about 25minutes to get there. The last bus back to Phuket passes Khao Sok bus stop at 16.30 however isnt always reliable so 15.30 is probably better (I’m told they go every hour). So you would have time to catch the bus back straight after your tour (Smileys gets you back to town between 3.30 and 4 and will drop you to the bus stop if you let them know). Also you can pay by card with Smileys with no extra charge which was handy! Highly recommend the experience, lots of downtime i.e. Easy enough for the guides! But the cave trip was great and the scenery is unreal. Just to note that the cave tour involves water above head height so if you are not a swimmer or have kids this may be an issue and the guide didn’t check or mention in advance.

We just booked with Smiley for our trip in November. We’re looking forward to the lake houses, and we really appreciate all the insight you shared. Do you recommend staying in Khao Sok national park the night before you are picked up from Smiley bungalows? We were going to stay in Railay beach and get a ride up to the park the morning of, but that would put us leaving before 6 am that morning. I’m torn on the best approach.

Thank you for all your information, it is really helpful, well done!

Hi! What a great blog, many thanks! Me and my boyfriend are visiting Thailand in December / January and we are planning a trip to Khao Sok National Park. We are from Holland by the way :).

What is the best way to go and leave this place? I am worried we will not be able to catch a train /plain on time. We will probably go here from Pai or Krabi, and afterwards we will go to the islands (Koh Lanta or Koh Samui for instance..)

Also, we would like to stay here for 3 or 4 nights. At least 1 night in a floating bungalow at the lake but I have seen this is quite expensive. What would you recommend? 3 nights in the town and 1 night at the lake? Can we also book this together with Smileys?

Thanks in advance!

Hi there, your article has been super useful in our plans to visit Khao Sok this weekend. The information online is a little confusing, so this has been a life saver. Would you recommend not booking an accomodation/tour ang visiting the village to find something best suited? Or would it be a better option to book them online? I notice that some tour companies work with various different accommodation providers ( https://khaosoklake.com/ ), and they help you with booking them (as opposed to Smileys who I believe have their own accommodation and tours). Would you happen to know which might be a better option?

Hi Ben! It was really great your story! Amazing! Thank you to read it. 🙂 I would like to ask, if we choose the overnight tour in khao sok and forexample we are ( different strange people) 7-8 people of group, we will stay in shared room all? I hope you understand the question. Sorry for my english. Thank you for your answere.

Your guide is amazing! I had never heard of Khao Sok, and now it’s at the top of my list for our Thailand trip! We will be starting our trip in Chiang Mai, then heading south. Do you have any suggestions on the best way to get from Chiang Mai to the park?

This is a great post. Thanks so much for this. I have always wanted to visit the park but ended up cancelling it because there were no detailed information I found online. Now, that I know what to expect, I’ll plan for my upcoming trip next week.

Hi I really enjoyed reading about your trip. My son who will be 16 and I are going for 7 nights late December this year… Long way off I know but I am a bit of a planner. Can you tell me whether we need malaria tablets and rabies jabs? I’ve had mine but Josh hasn’t. Also how easy is it to get there from Surat Thani Airport I’m hoping we can arrange transport in advance. One more thing how much should we expect to pay for lunches dinners and drinks approx?? Sorry so many things to ask ?

Hey Helen! Sounds like you have a great trip to Thailand planned. As for vaccinations, I would first consult your doctor and follow their recommendations. Also you can take a peek at the CDC website as they usually give good advice, though it can be overly conservative at times. Coming from Surat Thani airport it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to Khao Sok. You can arrange a bus ahead of time with 12go.asia. For meals, it depends on where you’ll eat, but it should cost about 75-150 baht per for a local meal ($2.5 to $5 USD), but of course, you can find slightly cheaper and much more expensive places. Hope this helps. Cheers!

I am still pretty confused by your itinerary. Do you need to stay in two diff places to take advantage of both the Lake and the NP? Can you access both sites from Smiley’s Bungalows or must you book a 2nd venue? Is it worth doing the 2-day Trek the NP itself offers thru its website? Seems very pricey…..

Hey Ethan, I totally get it, we were confused to when looking into Khao Sok. There are two parts to the park: the Lake (where Smiley’s is located) and the National Park Forest. You cannot access the National Park Forest from Smiley’s Bungalows. You’ll have to book accommodation in the Khlong Sok town to access the hiking trails in the National Park Forest. I’m not sure what the NP offers for their tour, but we were able to go hiking all day by ourselves and there were really nice trails. You just have to pay the NP entrance fee. Hope this helps, let me know if you have more questions.

Hi! One logistics question for you, we’ll be traveling from Krabi to Khao Sok and are planning to do the overnight tour with Smiley’s. Did you book your accommodations at Monkey Mansion for several nights so that you could leave all of your luggage there?

Hey Emily, You could book nights with Monkey Mansion or you could email them and ask if you could leave your stuff there. They might let you do it without booking rooms.

Best. Guide. Ever. Booking with Smileys as we speak. Thanks!

Great to hear! You’ll love it! Cheers!

Hi! Thanks so much for all of the super helpful information. My friend and I are thinking we’d like to go do the overnight in the floating bungalows, but figuring out how to get there is proving to be a bit tricky. We’re going to be in Phuket the day before and Smiley’s suggestion seems to be to go from Phuket to Surathani, and then to Khao Sok, which seems quite out of the way. Do you have any recommendations on how to get there from Phuket?

We are in the same boat! What did you end up doing? We are thinking a car rental may be our best bet…

Yes, we also thought it was difficult to find info on how to get there. We went from Khao Lak (which is just north of Phuket about an hour). Our hotel was able to arrange a shuttle van for us that dropped us off in the town in Khao Sok. I think it was around a 4-hour trip. Hope that helps! Khao Sok is amazing!

Hi, glad to find and read this article. Me and my son (4,5 years old) will be there in 4 weeks. From what you described I understand that such a tour is not suitable for kids. How can we enjoy the place there as we cannot join the group. A private tour Its just too expensive…

Hey there, I enjoyed this very helpful article! I am looking into staying at Smiley’s bungalow and then doing the overnight lake tour with them. I have read some mixed reviews online about the cave, particularly about safety and the lack of preparedness of the tourguides. Were the Smiley’s tour guides experienced and prepared for the cave exploration? Any safety concerns? I’d feel better knowing that they have a first aid kit, extra batteries, flashlights, etc. Also! I would love to find time for a hike, preferably to a waterfall or elevated viewpoint. The Smiley’s tour seems pretty focused on boat rides, aside from the cave tour. Do you have any recommendations on accessible hikes in Khao Sok, perhaps even during the "down time" of the tour? Thanks!

Hey Jeff, with Smiley’s I believe you can do multiple nights in the floating bunglaow. That will allow you time to go out and explore some of the hiking trails. We only had enough time for one over night. The guides were very professional and had head lamps for everyone, including extras. Let me know if you have any more questions. Cheers!

Hi, Khao Sok used to be off the beaten path – about 15 years ago. Then, around 2007 the first real resorts started to appear along Hwy 401 and these days everyone and their dog open a guest house in the hope to milk the ever increasing hordes of "farang" tourists instead of having to tap rubber trees. The scenery is still stunning no doubt about that. But the river suffers from the increased number of visitors. 15 years back we used to catch shrimps under the over hanging river banks – wouldn’t eat them today.

Hi Khun, Sorry to hear about how tourism has changed the area around Khao Sok. It is such a beautiful area of Thailand and deserved to be preserved. What do you think needs to change in order to preserve the land and the culture?

Omg thanks for writing this. My partner and I were getting so confused about how to travel to Khao Sok and your article lays it out in a much easier-to-follow way than he majority of the info out there. What time of year did you travel there? Cheers, Helen

Why thank you so much Helen! We visited Khao Sok in March. It was a wonderful time to be there!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

KHAO SOK TRAVEL

PHANG NGA BAY FULL DAY TRIP FROM KHAO SOK

Explore Phang Nga Bay with its beautiful Mangroves. One of the world's largest Eco systems. Be impressed by the huge limestone mountains and stunning surrounding. Nature at its best ! Vist James Bond Island and enjoy a sea canoe tour.

Phang Nga Bay (full day trip) travel from Khao Sok in the morning and return in the evening. Phangnga Bay is renowned for its many dramatic limestone islands . These distinctive sheer rock formations jut vertically out of the emerald green water. At low tide, cave tunnels are exposed amongst the huge rocks, allowing entrance by sea canoe through areas of untouched nature and into hidden lagoons behind the bay.

Phang Nga’s most famous limestone rock, Tapu Island , is also known as James Bond Island (from the film “The Man with The Golden Gun”). Enjoy an authentic Thai lunch at Pan Yee village , the local Muslim fishing settlement, and take the opportunity to browse around. On the way back to the hotel, we stop at the Golden Cave Temple or at Suwanakhuha Temple.

Ko Panyi is a small  Island  with a plain of approximately 1 rai and 200 houses. Most of the dwellers are Thai Muslims, earning their living by  Fishing  and selling souvenirs and  Food  to visitors. There is a school and public health centre, as well.

Private Tour

Price Adult

5,000 THB 4,000 THB 3,000 THB 2,500 THB

2 people 4 people 6 people 8 people

Khao Sok Travel would like to introduce you to some of the beautiful and fascinating mixtures of culture, nature and adventures that Thailand has to offer. We are pleased to help you plan your holiday excursions, whether it be a jungle adventure, a snorkelling trip, a glimpse into daily Thai life, a temple tour or a cultural history tour of Takuapa. James Bond Island is also a popular destination that well deserves a visit!

Khao Sok Travel specializes in land and sea tours. Our fishing trips and Khao Sok tours are Khao Sok Travel ’s special areas of expertise. We have one of the best fishing experts in the area, and the most sought-after Khao Sok guide. Both are passionate about what they do and will show you a great day out!

Thank you for choosing Khao Sok Travel . We hope you have a wonderful holiday!

Hotel pick up and transfer to the Phang Nga Pier

Travel by minivan, journey time about 1.45 hrs, to PhangNga.

Arrive at the pier (Phang-nga national park) and change to a longtail boat to visit - The Floating Village - James Bond Island the island of the scene from The man with the golden gun - The local people they call "Khao Tapu" - The leaning Mountain ( "Khao Ping Kan") - Have fun with the Canoeing paddle man bring you to sightseeing around the mangrove

Enjoy the tasty local food on the floating restaurant at Panyee Island. After lunch Relaxing  a leisure your time

Back to the car going to visit "Suwankuha Temple" or "The Monkey Cave Temple"

Transfer back to your hotel.

Round trip transfer from and to your hotel ( Khao Sok Area)

Phang Nga Bay and Jame Bond Island, Panyee Village

Canoeing 

Lunch at Panyee Village

Visit Monkey temple

English speaking Guide

WHAT TO BRING

Holiday mood

Mosquito repellant

Swim wear & Towel

Camera (with waterproof case/bag)

Comfortable shoes

Extra clothes

How To Visit Khao Sok National Park & Floating Bungalow Tour 2024

Jack and I had the most amazing experience at Khao Sok National Park the last time we visited Thailand. We were there for six weeks, exploring as much of the country as we could.

Khao Sok National Park is one of those places that would be perfect for adventure travellers, thanks to treks and cave expeditions like the one we did at Tham Nam Talu. It’s also great for nature enthusiasts, thanks to the surrounding rainforest and legendary limestone cliffs.

Not only that, but Khao Sok is also where you’ll find overnight stays and tours of Thailand’s famous floating bungalow ! Visiting Khao Sok turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip .

Understand How To Visit Khao Sok National Park And Book A Floating Bungalow Tour!

In this post, I’m sharing all the details of how to plan a trip to Khao Sok National Park from our experience of staying one night on the floating bungalows. I’m also covering topics including:

• A comprehensive guide including the best overnight stays, how to book, where to stay and how to get to Khao Sok.
• I’ve broken up our visit and provided details from our own trip so you know exactly what to expect.

Is Khao Sok National Park Worth Visiting?

Jack and I absolutely loved our stay at Khao Sok National Park . It was made even better when we found out that we could stay overnight on the floating bungalows, an activity we had heard so much about but still weren’t entirely sure what it was.

In the end, we had a great experience, which was perfect for us. And I think anyone who loves nature and being outdoors would enjoy visiting Khao Sok floating bungalows too.

🌟 Guess what ->> As travel experts, our experiences have led us to be great at planning travel itineraries, so much so that I offer a bespoke travel itinerary service to all my readers. Interested? See what it’s all about here on my custom itinerary page.

About Khao Sok National Park 

Khao Sok National Park is located in the Surat Thani province of Thailand and is an ancient rainforest dating back millions of years. The park covers an area of approximately 739 square kilometres, making it one of the largest national parks in Thailand. 

Cheow Larn Lake was formed in 1982 when the Ratchaprapha Dam was built on the Khlong Sok River. The dam has the ability to generate hydroelectric power for the region, and it also created a scenic reservoir that has become a popular attraction.

The area was once home to the indigenous people of Thailand, the Chao Leh, who lived in harmony with the forest for centuries; our guide was a descendant of this tribe. 

⭐ Pro tip : During your visit, you’ll be able to enjoy a range of activities while exploring the park, including hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting. For more information on the history of Khao Sok National Park, head over to the website here.

Visiting Khao Sok On A Day Trip

I’ve aimed this guide more towards those of you who are hoping to plan an overnight visit to Khao Sok by staying on the floating bungalows. This is how I recommend visiting them, but if you’re short on time, there are day trips available.

🌟 My top pick >> Hike to a magical cave, enjoy a Thai lunch in a floating restaurant, and swim, kayak, and relax on this group tour of Khao Sok Cheow Lan Lake from Krabi.

• Khao Sok Rainforest Hike + Canoe: Join this small group Khao Sok rainforest adventure where you can hike and canoe through the jungle, ending with a cool swim. 
• Khao Sok Wildlife 2 Days : Spend two days viewing wildlife amongst the thick jungle, stunning limestone cliffs, and untouched nature with this small group tour from Khao Lak.

How To Plan Your Visit To Khao Sok National Park

Khao sok national park entrance fee.

If you want to enter the park, there is a fee. For foreigners, it’s 300 baht (150 baht for children). It’s quite common to find lower rates for Thai nationals; here, it’s 40 baht for adults and 20 baht for children.

Khao Sok is located in the wilderness; however, it’s relatively easy to access. If you’re driving, it takes around three hours from Phuket or two if you’re in Krabi.

Khao Sok National Park Opening Hours

Open daily, 7 am to 7 pm. Unless you’re on an arranged tour, you shouldn’t enter the park after hours.

How Long Do You Need At Khao Sok?

Jack and I spent one night on the floating bungalows and one night in Khlong Sok village the night before. It’s not necessary, but we left very early on the first day and so wanted to be in the local village.

It worked out well as we had almost two full days to enjoy the park since we left late on the second day. For us, this was enough time, as we were travelling the rest of Thailand, too.

⭐ Pro tip : Two nights on Khao Sok’s water bungalows would have also been amazing, and another night in Khlong Sok if you wanted to explore the National Park and do more hikes, visit waterfalls and river tubing, etc.

Do You Have To Book A Tour?

The Khao Sok floating bungalow tour does need to be booked if you want to stay overnight . As most of you know, we aren’t that great at researching our destinations beforehand and love to travel on a whim, but for this one, it was necessary as it does take a little planning.

The best and easiest way to visit Khao Sok National Park is to stay overnight on the water bungalows with local guides while experiencing the best of the park. They will share their history and the park’s history, tell you about the wildlife and take you exploring, ensuring a safe and comfortable visit.

⭐ Pro tip >> It is possible to enter Khao Sok National Park from the villages and explore the trails. A fee of 300 baht applies, but due to the park’s requirement, most trails are to be guided.

When Should You Visit Khao Sok National Park?

The weather in Khao Sok can be very humid and changeable. It’s typical for it to rain a little every day, especially during the wet season. There are misconceptions about the wet season; you’re more likely to see sudden downpours lasting an hour or so rather than all-day long rain, so it doesn’t necessarily make it a bad time to visit.

⭐ Pro tip >> The park is open all year round, but some activities may be closed due to the weather, such as cave exploring, if it’s been raining a lot. A positive aspect of visiting during this season is the more affordable rates.

• The dry season is from December to April; for sun-seekers, it’s best to visit Khao Sok in January and February. It’s possible to combine a trip at this time with the west coast to make the most of the weather or the east coast from May to October.
• The rainy season is from April to November, with the heaviest rainfall from June to November.

Where To Stay At Khao Sok National Park

We stayed in the small town of Khlong Sok, which is where the Khao Sok National Park HQ is located and where we recommend staying. From there, you can take guided walking trails into the park and explore. 

Malulee KhaoSok Resort

Malulee Khao Sok Resort features lovely bungalows, a garden and a pool, which are well-maintained by helpful and kind staff.

Cosy Garden Khao Sok

Breakfast Included. Offering a garden and mountain views, this luxury tent looks beautiful and features rooms with air conditioning, free private parking and free WiFi.

Khao Sok Secret Hostel

This hostel is where we stayed; it’s located in front of the entrance to the Khao Sok National Park. The rooms are clean and bright, with a terrace overlooking the mountains.

Our Experience Staying In Khlong Sok Village

Arriving at Khlong Sok, we checked in to our hostel and were really pleased with our choice. It was clean, fresh, and newly renovated, with large beds and a huge balcony. If you’re looking for a good, affordable spot, the Secret Hostel is a winner!

The village of Khlong Sok is typical of Thailand, with bamboo and concrete buildings along one main street. It is located along the street where restaurants, other hotels, a couple of bars, and amenities such as an ATM and mini market are. It was surrounded by tall trees and very green! 

⭐ Pro tip >> Heading out for some food, we found the restaurant Nongsaw Thai Food, not too far away from the hostel, serving a selection of delicious dishes. Give it a try if you’re nearby!

Activities From Khlong Sok

Hiking: Within the National Park, the western trail to Than Sawan Waterfall, the Rafflesia flower, and the northern trail to Sip Et Chan Waterfall Water Activities: River tubing, Canoe trip, Bamboo rafting Wildlife: Night Safari

How To Arrange A Floating Bungalow Tour

There are a number of ways to organise a floating bungalow tour. You can do it through your hotel, an online tour operator or once you’ve arrived at the village. If you’re budget savvy, you could wait until you’ve reached Khlong Sok (or whichever village you choose to base yourself at) to book a tour for the best deals, but you risk tickets being sold out!

Pre-Booking A Tour Through Your Hotel

We booked the water bungalow tour through our hostel in Khlong Sok BEFORE we arrived. They were really helpful in organising the type of experience we wanted. I had done some research and already had an idea of what I wanted to be included. It’s worth knowing that not all tours include the same activities.

Through the hostel, we were able to communicate our preferences and they were able to find us the right tour, or I think they changed their tour to include the activities we were requesting. Either way, it was easy and convenient as we arranged it over WhatsApp!

⭐ Pro tip >> Arranging the tour directly through the hotel allowed us to confirm what was included, such as the type of accommodation (there are different types of floating bungalows), meals and additional activities like kayaking and swimming before we paid.

Pre-Booking Your Khao Sok Tour Online

If you’re not travelling, you might be strapped for time and want to have your holiday booked up. I recommend at least one night and two days to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Khao Sok National Park so you can experience the floating bungalows.

⭐ Pro tip >> I’ve found this tour which sounds perfect, similar to ours and with great reviews! You’ll spend two days viewing wildlife amongst the thick jungle, stunning limestone cliffs, and untouched nature with this small group tour from Khao Lak.

Booking At Your Village Base

Another way to book the tour is to wait until AFTER you reach the park. When we reached the Khlong Sok, we noticed tour offices everywhere, and after speaking to a few people in our group, it would have been slightly cheaper to book once we arrived.

It depends on your type of travel and the amount of time you have as to the way you decide to book the tour. Either way, it’s important to understand activities are included and that all fees are included!

⭐ Pro tip >> We negotiated the park entrance fee into our final price. However, we were asked to pay a service charge when we arrived at the lake. As we had been told everything was included, we refused to pay this, which was a little awkward but resolved in the end.

What Should You Pack?

A small overnight bag or backpack is ideal  for a floating bungalow stay at Khao Sok National Park. You won’t need a lot, a change of clothes and swimming wear. Here are the essentials:

• Water bottle 
• Towel or Sarong
• Sunnies, hat and sunscreen (mineral)
• Insect repellent 
• Comfy walking shoes
• Waterproof camera
• Anti-bacterial gel 

⭐  Pro tip >>  There is nowhere to purchase food on any of the floating bungalows. Although we were given plenty of food, we always like to have some extra snacks; you can grab these at the market on your way.

How To Get To Khao Sok National Park

There are numerous ways to reach Khao Sok National Park, but if you’re like us, you’ll be coming from Krabi town, where we’d just been island hopping in the Andaman Sea. Catching a taxi or a local bus is the best way to do it.

Reaching Khao Sok By Private Taxi

Catching a taxi is the most comfortable and direct way to reach the national park. This is most likely why it is the most popular means of travel and can be organised from towns such as Phuket , Ko Lanta, Krabi, and Surat Thani.

There are many tour operators who will be able to help organise this for you; for example, Contiki is a reliable agency.

Organising A Minibus (this is the way we did it!)

Depending on your budget, a cost-effective way to reach the national park is by minibus; we opted for the minibus as it was only a little more than the public bus. It picked us up from our hostel. After a little negotiation, it cost us 350 baht pp and took a whopping three and a half hours! 

However, the journey went quickly and smoothly, with a few stops along the way to pick up locals. This isn’t a private taxi, so it took a little longer, but it’s air-conditioned and comfy, plus it’s cheaper!

⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re leaving from Krabi, make sure you are picked up from your hotel and not Krabi Town Bus Station, as it’s way out of town and will cost you more to get there!

Jumping On A Public Bus

Catching a local bus is always the cheapest way to travel; however, sometimes it can be easier to pay a little more and get there quicker. Even so, if you do choose to catch a public bus, here is some useful information.

Please remember that the prices and timings noted below are guidelines only – always check before you travel, as things are likely to have changed from our last visit!

• From Phuket:  4 hours/one bus per hour until 2 pm, about 160 baht
• From Khao Lak:  2 hours/one bus per hour
• From Surat Thani train station:  2 hours/one bus per hour, est. 120 baht
• From Surat Thani Airport:  2 hours 30 minutes/one bus every four hours, about 300-350 baht, depending on the drop-off point.
• From Krabi:  2-3 hours/one minibus per day at about 11 am, about 300 baht
• From Ko Lanta:  6 hours, including ferry, about 850 baht

Or Are You Coming from Bangkok?

Are you coming from Bangkok? There are three possible ways of travelling from Bangkok to Khao Sok National Park:

• Flight Surat Thani: Followed by a private taxi or public bus service to Khao Sok.
• Sleeper train:  This takes around 11 hours and costs 1000-1600 baht depending on class (I would suggest second class air-con).
• Overnight bus: This can take anywhere between 8 and 14 hours, depending on the route, and costs around 450 to 700 baht.

Resources For Thailand

Is it your first time visiting Thailand?  We’ve written lots of useful posts to help you plan your trip. You can check them all out on our  Thailand Page here ,  but below are some of our most popular articles:

• Thailand is one of our favourite travel destinations. Discover all the reasons why we love it here.
• Did you know that Thailand is a really great place to visit if you’re on a budget ?
• If you’re in search of Thailand’s most stunning national parks, check out the waterfalls at Erawan National Park!
• Do you love the idea of visiting islands? Koh Mook was our favourite island destination in south Thailand.
• Are you looking for some history and culture to add to your itinerary? I recommend checking out Kanchanaburi and the ancient city of Ayutthaya .

Our Experience Visiting Khao Sok National Park & Staying On The Floating Bungalows

Summary itinerary (example): 2-day / 1-night.

breakfast at the hotel,  9:00 am minivan (2 hours with a stop at the market) Boat ride (1 hour to floating bungalows) Free time to swim and kayak 12:30/1:00 pm Lunch Tam Nam Talu Cave hike  Evening safari 6:00 pm Dinner  Morning safari 11:00 am Lunch  Sparkling Diamond Cave 2:20 pm back at the hostel

The Journey To Khao Sok National Park

In the morning, after we had breakfast, we left the hostel by minivan for Khao Sok National Park. The journey took around two hours , with a stop at a local market. We were given fifteen minutes or so to walk around and grab any snack we might fancy. 

⭐ Pro tip : I picked up some Asian snacks and a selection of fresh fruits for a bargain price. Make sure you have some cash on you to use at the market and for tips as well. There is nowhere to purchase snacks once you’re on the lake.

After the market, we headed straight for Cheow Larn Lake, which was enormous! We had to check in before we were able to proceed to the long-tail boat, which took us to the floating bungalows. 

On Cheow Larn Lake

The journey along Cheow Larn Lake was spectacular; it was so pretty. It was exactly like I had imagined. The water was calm and flat with a magical emerald green appearance and flickers of sapphire.

The deeper we went along the lake, the surrounding limestone cliffs began to encompass us, their tall, rugged edges hanging over our tiny boat. We passed a few enclaves where other floating bungalows were set up, but ours was deeper into the park, hidden away from the world.

Staying on the Floating Bungalows 

It took about one hour to reach our floating bungalows.  They were how we were expecting: a line of bamboo huts constructed on top of floating barrels strung together in a line of about twenty.  There was a communal area with a canteen where we all ate together and a set of male and female shower rooms.

Previously, while reading up on the floating bungalow tours, I’d read some bad reviews and horror stories; however, for us, they were fine, and we had a great experience! 

The accommodation was very basic, with only a mattress on the floor and a small fan, but there was nothing bad about it. It was clean and tidy, with a little window and shelf. Considering we were only there for one night, there wasn’t much else we needed.

⭐ Pro tip >> It was a comfortable sleep, but remember to bring a head torch for those midnight wanders to the toilet!

Swimming And kayaking On Cheow Larn Lake

As soon as we arrived, we were able to swim in the lake and use the kayaks. Access to the lake was from directly in front of our bungalow; it was a quick step and jump, and we were in the water!

It was fantastic to jump into the water so easily, which was a lovely warm temperature at the surface and cooler towards the toes. 

We saw a family of monkeys down by the water line munching on what we were told were freshwater snails. They seemed to be enjoying them a lot. 

⭐ Pro tip >> Jack and I took the kayaks around the lake in search of more wildlife. We didn’t see much more except for a pair of eagles soaring above. I will say that we didn’t notice as much wildlife as we thought there would be! 

Hiking and Cave Exploration 

After kayaking and lunch, it was time for our hike into the heart of Khao Sok National Park. The hike took about an hour and was pretty flat before we reached the cave entrance, which was huge! 

Along the hike, we passed through a bamboo forest , rivers and large boulders and were not expecting much from the cave; however, we were blown away. We hiked into the cave in total darkness, all donning our head torches.

We were lucky to see a boa constrictor curled up on a ledge before passing deeper into the cave following a little stream. The cave was full of insects , especially spiders with long folded pincers ready to attack!

We followed the stream as it winded through the cave, there were areas where the rocks sparkled like diamonds which was very beautiful and with the trickling sound of the steam echoing through the darkness it was a totally new and surreal feeling!

It Was An Epic Cave Adventure!

Eventually, we came to a narrow opening, which we had to squeeze through as the water gradually became deeper. We ended up having to wade through the water and even swim at times to get through the cave. It was totally unexpected and really fun! 

⭐ Pro tip >> Make sure you take waterproof cases for phones, etc. Jack and I had our backpacks on and had to hold them above our heads while attempting to navigate through a gully. Unfortunately for Jack, he stepped into a hole and submerged.

Coming out the other end, our guide decided to tell us how a group had died being caught in the cave during the storm, and the water levels had risen to drown them! Important note – no exploring caves when it rains!

The Evening Safari 

We went back to our floating bungalows for some more downtime before we headed off on the boat for an evening safari. It’s optional to go on the safari, but we all went in hopes of spotting wildlife. 

We were left a little disappointed by the lack of animals in the park. If you are hoping to see lots of wildlife on this trip, then you will be disappointed! Nevertheless, Cheow Larn Lake is still stunning and floating around in its tranquillity was good enough, animals or not.

Making Local Jewellery 

On our way back from the cave, our guide was collecting strands of rattan from the trees. He had made a couple of hats along the hike and told us he was saving the rest for jewellery. 

So, on the safari, as we sat and waited to spot wildlife, he began making the jewellery. Soon enough, we were all getting involved and making rings and bracelets. He was teaching us the method he had learned from his mother, which actually became more fun than trying to spot the wildlife, which we didn’t see!

The Morning Safari & Red Fox Bats

In the morning, we packed up and, after breakfast, headed out on the morning safari. We motored around for a while in the long-tail boat (which is really noisy), stopping in some beautiful areas for photos while hoping to see wildlife.

It wasn’t until we stopped for lunch, which we had on the boat, that we saw the red fox bats. The second highlight of our trip! They were relaxing in the trees, and we could only see glimpses of them.

Being the only boat in the small cove (our guide had taken us there in hopes of seeing them), with the engine turned off, they decided to swarm and right above our heads , there were thousands of them! 

⭐ Pro tip >> You will see some wildlife. We managed to see some other animals during the trip, too, such as a boa constrictor, frogs, spiders, crickets, and monkeys . We heard gibbons in the trees and saw pink snail eggs, plenty of fish, a toucan, a hornbill, butterflies, a chameleon, and monitor lizards!

Sparkling Diamond Cave 

After lunch, we were taken to another cave; although nothing in comparison to the first, it was still nice to visit. It was much smaller, and there wasn’t much going on inside, but we did see some gecko eggs through a little hole and the skin of a rather large snake; unfortunately, no snake to be seen.

In all honesty, it was a bit of anti-climax after the first cave experience, but the view from outside the cave was great, and it was a nice way to end the trip. 

⭐ Pro tip >> If you do a similar trip to ours, it’s likely you’ll get back to Khlong Sok around 2 pm. We decided to head straight for Surat Thani train station, where we were catching the night train up to Kanchanaburi.

⭐ Pro tip >> Curious about the meals? We were provided lunch and dinner on the first day and breakfast and lunch on the second day. Water was provided throughout.

Typical Meals Included:

• Lunch: fried rice, noodles, chicken, tofu and a selection of vegetables. Plus a fruit plate and juice.
• Dinner: marinated steamed fish from the lake, rice, noodles, a selection of vegetables and tofu. Plus a fruit plate and juice.
• Breakfast: pancakes and a selection of fruit and juice. 
• Lunch: (on the boat) parcels of fried rice with vegetables and an egg. Fruit and water. 

Conclusion: Khao Sok National Park & Floating Bungalow Tour

Khao Sok National Park is one of those places that will live in our memories forever. It was one of our favourite destinations from our entire world adventure and is simply stunning.

The stay on the floating bungalows over the water and deep within the jungle made it so memorable that we would recommend staying there, too. It really was a lovely adventure; combined with the cave expedition, we had a fantastic time!

Explore & Discover More

Come and join our socials and keep up to date with the latest adventures. Find the latest travel photos and blog updates, ask questions and get travel inspiration. ✔️ FIND ON INSTAGRAM ✔️ JOIN US ON FACEBOOK

Abigail Dalton is the owner and creator behind I’m Going On An Adventure, a blog which helps travellers find unique destinations worldwide. She focuses on budget travel and outdoor adventure, giving first-hand experiences to help her readers plan their perfect trips and make the best memories. She also helps travellers plan their dream holidays with bespoke travel services where she creates fun-packed itineraries. When she isn't writing about her travels you'll find her on long country walks foraging for mushrooms or enjoying a cool fruity white under the sun, toes tucked in the sand.

Private Tours

Jungle Wildife Spotting Tour 3 days/ 2 night tour

This is our ultimate 3 days / 2 nights wildlife spotting tour!

An unforgettable experience and a chance to know more about the incredible nature of the area, including evergreen jungle rainforest, magnificent scenery (steep partly overgrown limestone cliffs surrounding the lake) and wildlife (birds, monkeys, gibbons - sometimes even elephants and much more) of the Khao Sok National Park and Chiew Laan Lake reservoir. We will also go deep into the Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary to have a better chance of seeing deer, bison and many rare species of birds. 

Off the grid, away from it all ...

Includes sightseeing, jungle camping, swimming, kayaking, evening and morning safaris, delicious meals. We can arrange transfers on request.

Day 1 

8am pick up at hotel in Khao sok area by tour guide. I will give you about information and history about the area. and going to the lake 45 minute drive to the Lake. on the way get story and history from speak very good English Local tour guide. 

8.45- 9am arrive at the pier. get on private long tail boat. seeing beautiful scenary on the way to hiking trail. walk in the morning not to humidity and not many peaple. 3 hour hiking round trip to viewpoint. seeing beautiful view. ( but if you don't want to hiking that long please let me know) after hiking back on the boat and going to hotel on the water in the Lake. have some Thai set Delicious lunch menu. after lunch check in the room and swim, kayaking or relaxing 

4.30 get on the private boat for evening safari and seeing beautiful scenary in the area with cool beer. 

6pm back to hotel for get ready for Thai set delicious dinner menu tours guide will look after you until you go for sleep.  

Day 2   get on Long tail boat at 6.30am for wildlife spotting early seeing beautiful sunrise and stop in private area tour guide and boat driver will cook some  breakfas and fresh coffee  on the boat. enjoy breakfast and enjoy wildlife spotting. and enoy beautiful scenary with no another peaple around. 5-6 hour tour. your tour guide will take a picture for you with tele-lens. and you can see wildlife with binoculars. in end of the tours your tour guide will send picture of wildlife you see  to you by the email. about 12 - 1pm back to hotel for lunch and relaxing,swiming or kayaking 

5pm get on the boat again for scenery for 1 hour and back to hotel for dinne. 

Day 3  

get on the boat at 6.30 again for moring fresh coffee on the boat with beautiful sunrise. for 1-1.30 hours trip back to hotel for breakfast and relaxing untill 9.30 am and check out going for sighseeing and seeing symbol of the Lake and stop some private area for swim and back to the pier. going to local area for learing how local live and eat and have lunch in Local restaurant and you going your next destinations. 

We like to be on time, but the schedule can be a bit flexible - you are on holiday, and it's an adventure - let's be curious and open-minded about what we may meet on the way... :)

Book a 3 day 2 night trip to Chiew Laan Lake, one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in Khao Sok National Park.

Bamboo hut sheared toilet  simple bed

   for 2  person B35,672

model bungalow ensuite toilet and air-conditioning    2 person B39,312

Children under 10 half price

All prices are subject to change without notice before a confirmed booking is made.

please give us Advance Notice for the tours 

Don't forget - we have other tours you may like...

We offer a variety of private tours:

Full day trip

2 day 1 night Coral Cave tour

2 day 1 night Hiking tour

3 day 2 night Jungle tour

Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours

About monkey mansion - jungalows & tours.

• Lodge Enjoy the many amenities of a lodge in the great outdoors
• Freebies This stay includes Wi-Fi and Parking for free

Latest deals for Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours

* Total includes estimated local taxes & fees payable on check out.

Prices are based on 1 night, not including taxes and fees

Amenities at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours

• Mountain view
• Terrace/Patio
• Laundry facilities
• Board games/puzzles
• Laundry service

Services and conveniences

• ATM on-site
• Wake-up service
• Safety deposit box
• Mini-market on site
• Room service
• Express check-out
• Private check-in/check-out
• Family rooms
• Seating area
• Garden view
• Hardwood or parquet floors
• Landmark view
• Storage available
• Packed lunches
• Special diet menus (on request)
• Dining table

Parking and transportation

• Airport shuttle (surcharge)
• Free parking
• Private parking
• Shuttle service (additional charge)
• Toilet paper
• Private bathroom

Things to do

• Cooking classes

Accessibility and suitability

• Non-smoking rooms available
• Private entrance
• Clothes rack
• Wardrobe or closet
• Fax/photocopying

Health and safety

Family friendly

Reviews of Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours

All reviews are collected from real users with a verified booking made with KAYAK or one of our trusted external partners.

Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

• would definitely stay again! (in 26 reviews)
• Amazing staff and great food. (in 118 reviews)
• The food was delicious as well! (in 86 reviews)
• Cold water in shower (in 18 reviews)
• Bed broken so dipped in middle. (in 7 reviews)
• The road can be busy. (in 11 reviews)

What's nearby

• Khao Sok National Park 2.5 mi

Essential information about Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours

When to book a room at monkey mansion - jungalows & tours, top tips for your stay at monkey mansion - jungalows & tours.

• If you’re after a cheap room at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours, then you should consider staying during the low season. The cheapest deals can generally be found in November and April.
• Prices can also vary depending on which day of the week you stay. For the best room deals at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours, plan to stay on a Friday or Wednesday. The most expensive day is usually Sunday.
• The cheapest price a room at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours was booked for on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks was $31, while the most expensive was $31.
• How long should you stay at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours? KAYAK users usually book their rooms here for 1 day.

FAQs when booking at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours

Where is monkey mansion - jungalows & tours located.

Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours is located at , 3.5 miles from the center of Khlong Sok. Khao Sok National Park is the closest landmark to Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours.

When is check-in time and check-out time at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours?

Check-in time is 2:00 PM and check-out time is 11:00 AM at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours.

Does Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours offer free Wi-Fi?

Yes, Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours offers free Wi-Fi.

Does Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours offer free parking?

Yes, Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours offers free parking.

How far is Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours from the airport?

Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours is 44.7 miles from Surat Thani. Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours is 56.4 miles from Phuket City.

How does KAYAK find such great Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours hotel deals?

KAYAK scours the web for all room deals available at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours in Khlong Sok and lets you compare them to find the best rate for your stay. Many different travel sites will offer discounts or deals at different times for rooms at Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours and KAYAK will provide you with prices from a huge range of travel sites. That means that you can always find a great deal for Monkey Mansion - Jungalows & Tours.

Nearby hotels and places to stay

Most recommended, good to know.

• Destinations
• Travel advice

Complete travel guide to Khao Sok National Park

• February 13, 2023

Table of Contents

Khao Sok National Park is a breathtaking destination in Thailand, known for its natural beauty and abundance of flora and fauna. Khao Sok is without a doubt the most beautiful national park we visited in Thailand. In the park you will find Khao Sok lake which is surrounded by huge rock formations of up to 900 meters high and ancient jungle making it a stunning place to visit.

If you’re planning a trip to Khao Sok National Park, there are several things you should know. For example, how many days in Khao Sok are required and how to get to Khao Sok National Park. Exploring the park itself can be done either by boat or on foot. There are diverse activities available to enjoy such as swimming in Khao Sok Lake and spotting exotic wildlife from the jungle.

When visiting Khao Sok National Park, prepare yourself by following our Khao Sok National park itinerary. This article provides you with all you need to know about Khao Sok. Discover our best tips and find out why this was the highlight of our Thailand trip!

Is Khao Sok National Park worth visiting

Khao Sok National Park is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places you can visit in Thailand. Not only is it home to one of the oldest rainforests in the world, but it also offers an abundance of flora and fauna. A highlight of a visit to Khao Sok is seeing gibbons high in the trees in their natural environment, as well as other animals such as elephants and snakes.

The park consists of two parts – Khlong Sok village at one entrance and Cheow Larn Lake (also called Khao Sok Lake) at the other, both offering spectacular views and experiences. At Khlong Sok, you will find the headquarter of the park, which is also where many visitors arrive by bus.

Cheow Larn Lake is where you can stay in a bungalow on the lake for an unforgettable experience.

From hiking through the jungle to visiting different caves filled with spiders and snakes inhabiting them, swimming through caves, kayaking on Khao Sok lake, or even going on safari – whatever your choice might be, it’s all possible at this stunning National Park and therefore is Khao Sok worth it to visit.

Where is Khao Sok National Park located?

Khao Sok National Park is located in the south of Thailand in the province of Phang Nga and is easily accessible from popular travel destinations such as Koh Samui, Krabi, and Phuket.

The great thing about Khao Sok National Park is that it is not visited by a lot of tourists compared to the surrounding destinations. Many travelers come to Thailand to enjoy the coast. In this park you can do something different, making it an awesome place during your trip through Thailand.

Tip: Use the map below to see where the best things in Khao Sok National Park are located. Click on the top right corner to enlarge the map. If you click on the star symbol next to the title, you can save this map to your Google Maps account. You can show or hide different categories on the map. You can use this map to navigate when you are in Khao Sok National Park.

Things to do in Khao Sok National Park?

Khao Sok National Park is very large, with many parts you cannot visit because this is a protected nature reserve. One part that can be visited is Khao Sok Lake and the area around it. Read below our 3 recommended activities that you can do in Khao Sok National Park.

Khao Sok National Park tour at Khao Sok lake

A Khao Sok National Park tour offers the chance to explore Khao Sok Lake which is the best area to discover in Khao Sok. It is one of the few places in the world where mammals live in an untouched environment, making it a true natural marvel.

This lake is visited as part of a guided tour, as it is simply not possible to do it yourself. During your journey, you will cruise, hike and kayak through different regions of the lake, discover caves, relax on boat rides, and even go on a safari in the early hours of the morning. Make sure you don’t miss out on this unique opportunity – important to book the Khao Sok National Park tour as early as possible to safeguard a spot.

The Khao Sok National Park tour starts with a pickup and travels to the park entrance before boarding a speedboat that will take you to the stunning bungalows on Lake Khao Sok. Take in stunning sights like the Nam Ta Lu cave and stop at Chiew Larn and Khao Sam Klur as you cruise along.

When you arrive at the accommodation you start with a hike in the jungle and getting a chance to see monkeys, snakes, and insects. In the evening you have the time to enjoy traditional Thai food.

The next morning enjoy the best morning view you’ve ever had – a fog-covered lake surrounded by high mountains – then set off for a boat safari where you can spot gibbons, hornbills, monkeys, elephants, bulls, and wild birds. Don’t forget your binoculars! After this activity, the tour is finished.

Delight in a memorable 2-day or 3-day tour of Khao Sok National Park; while the three-day tour offers more free time it is often twice as expensive. We recommend booking the 2-day tour. If you know the dates when you will be in Khao Sok, it is recommended to buy your tickets already to secure a spot. Check actual prices and availability here .

Follow a kayak tour in Khao Sok

A kayak safari down the River Sok offers a unique and relaxing way to start your visit to Khao Sok National Park. As you float down the river, take in the huge limestone rock formations and lush rainforest. If you’re lucky, you may even catch glimpses of monkeys, snakes, and other wildlife like elephants, bears, and buffalo.

The tour is guided by an experienced guide who can help you find the best route through the water as well as provide interesting facts about the area. He will also help you spot animals before you do. A kayak safari is only possible through a tour, you cannot do this independently. Book a ticket for a kayak trip here .

Hiking in Khao Sok National Park

Hiking in Khao Sok National Park is in one word amazing. You walk through the untouched rainforest and are always surprised by the breathtaking views. The plants and animals you encounter along the way make it one of the best activities to do.

If you stay in Khlong Sok, this is the village that is next to the main entrance, you can easily start the hike. You can do this independently, go to the main entrance and buy a map on the spot on which different walking routes are indicated. Ask locally which route is most suitable at that time, this can vary due to weather conditions because you cannot walk some routes if it has rained a lot, for example.

If you do not feel confident enough to do this on your own or would like to have a guide with you while hiking, it is recommended to follow this tour . The big advantage is that a local person knows what to look out for and what the dangers are in certain places. The chance of seeing wild animals is also better than if you do it independently.

Both options are fine, it’s a matter of personal preference. If you want to do trekking with a guide, we recommend a tour. In half a day you will visit the Bang Hua Rad and Wing Hin waterfalls. These waterfalls are green in color which is special to see. Check actual prices and availability for the trekking tour here .

Khao Sok how many days?

How many days in Khao Sok you need depends on your personal preference, but we recommend 3 days. You need to book 1 or 2 nights in the village of Khlong Sok. Our recommended Khao Sok National Park itinerary below provides more clarity:

• Night day 1: stay at Khaosok Riverside Cottages of Art’s Riverview Lodge
• Night day 2: included in the tour (not necessary to book anything)
• Option I: stay again in Khaosok Riverside Cottages or Art’s Riverview Lodge
• Option II: travel by night bus to the next destination such as Bangkok (so you don’t have to book an overnight stay at an accommodation)

As you can see in the overview above, on the 3rd day you have the choice to stay another night in the village of Khlong Sok or take a night bus to the next destination. Staying in Khlong Sok after two intensive days gives you some time to relax, whereas taking the night bus allows you to reach your new location faster. It all depends on your schedule and personal preference – choose the option that makes sense for you!

Are you also looking for a Thailand itinerary ? Read more here.

Where to stay in Khao Sok National Park?

We recommend staying in the village of Khlong Sok, which is located next to the main entrance of Khao Sok National Park. There are a couple of accommodations to choose from in this small village.

We recommend Khaosok Riverside Cottages and Art’s Riverview Lodge because they are very good in terms of value for money. Both accommodations are beautifully located along the river. Great when you stay at these places that you hear all the animals that live along the river.

Note: don’t wait too long to book because the accommodations close to the park are fully booked quickly. This also applies to both accommodations, so if you know your dates it is recommended to book immediately.

Beautiful location Khaosok Riverside Cottages

We stayed in Khaosok Riverside Cottages , a very cozy cottage where you have the feeling that you are located middle of the jungle. The terrace is a great place to relax because it is situated along the river. The food is very good, you don’t have to look for places to eat outside the resort. The rooms are very neat and spacious. In addition, you can enjoy a warm shower here, which is not often the case in Thailand.

Great value for money Art’s Riverview Lodge

Another great place along the river is Art’s Riverview Lodge . You can compare this with Khaosok Riverside Cottages, only this one is more luxurious. So it is personal what you prefer. The houses where you can stay are beautiful. Also, at this place, they have a good restaurant.

Where to eat in Khao Sok National Park?

If you stay in the village of Khlong Sok, like us, you don’t have to look for places to eat because the two accommodations we recommend have good restaurants where you can eat for a good price.

If you would like to eat somewhere else, Pawn’s restaurant and Khao Sok Bistro & Bar are two good places to eat.

Pawn’s restaurant is located on the main road in Khlong Sok and where you can choose between Thai and European dishes. Great place to sit and enjoy a nice meal. We recommend gaeng phet, which is a curry with pumpkin. If you eat and drink here, it will cost you about 275 bath ($8.10) per person.

Khao Sok Bistro & Bar is our other recommendation. This place is nice because of the view and the ambiance. They have a swimming pool with a bar where you can relax after a long day of hiking in the park. Also here they have Thai and European dishes that you can choose from. If you want a pizza, this will cost you 350 bath ($10.30) with a drink per person. Our recommendation is one of the curries, this will cost you about 300 bath ($8.85) with a drink per person.

How to get to Khao Sok National Park

To visit Khao Sok National Park you need to travel to the nearby village called Khlong Sok. Khao Sok National Park is easy to reach if you are in the south of Thailand. It is also possible to get to the park if you are in other famous places. The most common method to reach Khao Sok National Park is by bus and sometimes in combination with a plane.

How to get from Koh Samui (Ko Tao and Ko Phangan) to Khao Sok National Park : Travel from your accommodation in Koh Samui to the pier of Koh Samui (Nathon Pier 3). Here you take the boat to Donsak Pier 3 (Surat Thani Pier). Depending on which tour operator you use, you need to get on a minivan at one of the tour operators. You can also buy a ticket to Khao Sok National Park at the bus station. Travel time is +/- 7 hours. Check current prices and availability here .

How to get from Bangkok to Khao Sok National Park : use the night bus (option 1) or plane (option 2). Option 1: Travel from Bangkok to the tour operator (address is mentioned on the tickets). With the night bus, you are in Khao Sok National Park in +/- 13 hours. Check current prices here .

Option 2: travel from the airport, usually for domestic flights you fly via Don Mueang airport to Surat Thani. In Surat Thani, you need to visit a tour operator to get on a minivan. Travel time is +/- 5 hours. Check current bus prices from Surat Thani here .

How to get from Chiang Mai to Khao Sok National Park : take the plane to Surat Thani. In Surat Thani, you need to travel to one of the tour operators where you can get in a minivan. Travel time is +/- 6 hours. Check current bus prices from Chiang Mai here .

How to get from Surat Thani to Khao Sok National Park : depending on which tour operator you use, you need to get on a minivan at one of the tour operators. You can also buy a ticket at the bus station to Khao Sok National Park (arrival in Khlong Sok village). Travel time is +/- 2 hours. Check current bus prices from Surat Thani here .

Tip: it is best to buy airline tickets via Skyscanner and bus tickets via Bookaway or 12go.asia .

If you travel to Thailand by plane and you are looking for a car to rent, you can rent it through Rentalcars . We use Rentalcars when we want to travel by car to discover new destinations. They’re easy to use and book with.

How expensive is it to visit Khao Sok National Park?

Visiting Khao Sok National Park is a unique experience that is more expensive than other activities in Thailand. This is because the park only allows a limited number of people per day to stay in the park, which pushes up prices. On average, expect to spend around $374 per person for a 2-day tour and stay in Khlong Sok.

If you stay one night in Khlong Sok after the two-day tour, it will cost each person around $396. This is a lot of money, but the park is amazing and worth visiting.

Travel insurance

World Nomads travel insurance policies offer coverage for more than 150 activities. Get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road.

When is the best time to visit Khao Sok National Park?

Khao Sok National Park can sometimes be difficult to predict in terms of weather because at one moment the weather can be good and suddenly it starts raining. It is humid all year round, especially from June to September. The most rain falls during this period.

In general, September and October are the coolest months, and March and April are the hottest. Temperatures are an average of 29-34℃ / 84,2-93.2°F so it’s never really cold.

The wettest months (June to September) are the coolest months and the driest months (October to April) are the warmest. You can travel to Khao Sok National Park all year round only depending on your personal preference, some periods suit you better than others.

Khao Sok National Park guide FAQ

1. is khao sok worth it.

Khao Sok National Park is definitely worth a visit – it’s one of Thailand’s most stunning and unique destinations. Take the two-day tour into the ancient jungle and spend a night in one of the park’s enchanting locations. Wake up surrounded by nature, on a lake with wild forests all around you – this experience is truly unforgettable!

2. What to bring to Khao Sok National Park?

Because the weather in Khao Sok is very changeable, we recommend that you take at least the following items with you:

• Shoes with a good profile
• Long pants and shirts
• Backpack that is water resistant
• Other personal essentials

3. Which practical information is more useful to know?

• Opening hours Khao Sok National Park: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Entrance fee: 300 baht / $8.85
• Drones: this is possible if you indicate that it is for private purposes
• You can easily book transportation ticket for your next destination via Bookaway , 12go.asia or at the hotel in Khlong Sok.

Want to see more of Thailand?

We hope this article has helped you to get a clear understanding of what you can do, where to stay, and why you should take the Khao Sok National Park tour.

After you visit Khao Sok National Park, you can discover more fun places in Thailand. If you like our Thailand itinerary , the next destination is Bangkok. Read here:  things to do in Bangkok .

If you do not follow our itinerary you can travel from Khao Sok National Park south towards Phuket and Krabi or north towards Koh Samui, Ko Phangan.

We have only visited Koh Samui of the above places. During our trip, we spoke to others who have visited the other places and they were all very enthusiastic. If you want to travel to an island where you have many facilities but at the same time can discover places that are undiscovered by others, Koh Samui is the place to go. For us, the best activity to do in Koh Samui was to rent a scooter and drive around the island for hours, and discover beautiful places without seeing anyone else.

What do you think of Khao Sok National Park? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclaimer: the prices mentioned in this article may differ from the current situation. We regularly update our articles. Would you like to help us to provide to best possible insights to help other travelers leave a comment with the latest information. Thanks!

Did you enjoy this article? Then save it to Pinterest for later!

Hello, we are Cynthia & Alexander, the team behind Travel Your Memories! Traveling is our passion. When it comes to exploration, we love sharing our tips and adventures to inspire you. Welcome to Travel Your Memories, where we share our love for travel with you! Read our story .

Follow our adventure

More to discover.

Useful 3 weeks Thailand itinerary

Thailand on budget: Thailand trip cost below $48 daily?

The best Thailand travel guide | everything you need to know

14 Amazing things to do in Koh Samui

The best 3 days in Chiang Mai itinerary

#14 Best places to stay in Thailand

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let's get social

Follow our adventures, popular places.

• United Kingdom

2024 Travel Your Memories. Website created by Red Pineapple .

Privacy Policy       Sitemap

Privacy Overview

Follow our adventures on instagram.

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Please go to the Instagram Feed settings page to create a feed.

Moscow Metro Tour

• Page active

Description

Moscow metro private tours.

• 2-hour tour $87:  10 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• 3-hour tour $137:  20 Must-See Moscow Metro stations with Russian lunch in beautifully-decorated Metro Diner + hotel pick-up and drop off. 
• Metro pass is included in the price of both tours.

Highlight of Metro Tour

• Visit 10 must-see stations of Moscow metro on 2-hr tour and 20 Metro stations on 3-hr tour, including grand Komsomolskaya station with its distinctive Baroque décor, aristocratic Mayakovskaya station with Soviet mosaics, legendary Revolution Square station with 72 bronze sculptures and more!
• Explore Museum of Moscow Metro and learn a ton of technical and historical facts;
• Listen to the secrets about the Metro-2, a secret line supposedly used by the government and KGB;
• Experience a selection of most striking features of Moscow Metro hidden from most tourists and even locals;
• Discover the underground treasure of Russian Soviet past – from mosaics to bronzes, paintings, marble arches, stained glass and even paleontological elements;
• Learn fun stories and myths about Coffee Ring, Zodiac signs of Moscow Metro and more;
• Admire Soviet-era architecture of pre- and post- World War II perious;
• Enjoy panoramic views of Sparrow Hills from Luzhniki Metro Bridge – MetroMost, the only station of Moscow Metro located over water and the highest station above ground level;
• If lucky, catch a unique «Aquarelle Train» – a wheeled picture gallery, brightly painted with images of peony, chrysanthemums, daisies, sunflowers and each car unit is unique;
• Become an expert at navigating the legendary Moscow Metro system;
• Have fun time with a very friendly local;
• + Atmospheric Metro lunch in Moscow’s the only Metro Diner (included in a 3-hr tour)

Hotel Pick-up

Metro stations:.

Komsomolskaya

Novoslobodskaya

Prospekt Mira

Belorusskaya

Mayakovskaya

Novokuznetskaya

Revolution Square

Sparrow Hills

+ for 3-hour tour

Victory Park

Slavic Boulevard

Vystavochnaya

Dostoevskaya

Elektrozavodskaya

Partizanskaya

Museum of Moscow Metro

• Drop-off  at your hotel, Novodevichy Convent, Sparrow Hills or any place you wish
• + Russian lunch  in Metro Diner with artistic metro-style interior for 3-hour tour

Fun facts from our Moscow Metro Tours:

From the very first days of its existence, the Moscow Metro was the object of civil defense, used as a bomb shelter, and designed as a defense for a possible attack on the Soviet Union.

At a depth of 50 to 120 meters lies the second, the coded system of Metro-2 of Moscow subway, which is equipped with everything you need, from food storage to the nuclear button.

According to some sources, the total length of Metro-2 reaches over 150 kilometers.

The Museum was opened on Sportivnaya metro station on November 6, 1967. It features the most interesting models of trains and stations.

Coffee Ring

The first scheme of Moscow Metro looked like a bunch of separate lines. Listen to a myth about Joseph Stalin and the main brown line of Moscow Metro.

Zodiac Metro

According to some astrologers, each of the 12 stops of the Moscow Ring Line corresponds to a particular sign of the zodiac and divides the city into astrological sector.

Astrologers believe that being in a particular zadiac sector of Moscow for a long time, you attract certain energy and events into your life.

Paleontological finds 

Red marble walls of some of the Metro stations hide in themselves petrified inhabitants of ancient seas. Try and find some!

• Every day each car in  Moscow metro passes  more than 600 km, which is the distance from Moscow to St. Petersburg.
• Moscow subway system is the  5th in the intensity  of use (after the subways of Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai).
• The interval in the movement of trains in rush hour is  90 seconds .

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the walking tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review

• Preplanned tours
• Daytrips out of Moscow
• Themed tours
• Customized tours
• St. Petersburg

Moscow Metro 2019

Will it be easy to find my way in the Moscow Metro? It is a question many visitors ask themselves before hitting the streets of the Russian capital. As metro is the main means of transport in Moscow – fast, reliable and safe – having some skills in using it will help make your visit more successful and smooth. On top of this, it is the most beautiful metro in the world !

. There are over 220 stations and 15 lines in the Moscow Metro. It is open from 6 am to 1 am. Trains come very frequently: during the rush hour you won't wait for more than 90 seconds! Distances between stations are quite long – 1,5 to 2 or even 3 kilometers. Metro runs inside the city borders only. To get to the airport you will need to take an onground train - Aeroexpress.

RATES AND TICKETS

Paper ticket A fee is fixed and does not depend on how far you go. There are tickets for a number of trips: 1, 2 or 60 trips; or for a number of days: 1, 3 days or a month. Your trips are recorded on a paper ticket. Ifyou buy a ticket for several trips you can share it with your traveling partner passing it from one to the other at the turnstile.

On every station there is cashier and machines (you can switch it to English). Cards and cash are accepted. 1 trip - 55 RUB 2 trips - 110 RUB

Tickets for 60 trips and day passes are available only at the cashier's.

60 rides - 1900 RUB

1 day - 230 RUB 3 days - 438 RUB 30 days - 2170 RUB.

The cheapest way to travel is buying Troyka card . It is a plastic card you can top up for any amount at the machine or at the ticket office. With it every trip costs 38 RUB in the metro and 21 RUB in a bus. You can get the card in any ticket office. Be prepared to leave a deposit of 50 RUB. You can get it back returning the card to the cashier.

SamsungPay, ApplePay and PayPass cards.

One turnstile at every station accept PayPass and payments with phones. It has a sticker with the logos and located next to the security's cabin.

GETTING ORIENTED

At the platfrom you will see one of these signs.

It indicates the line you are at now (line 6), shows the direction train run and the final stations. Numbers below there are of those lines you can change from this line.

In trains, stations are announced in Russian and English. In newer trains there are also visual indication of there you are on the line.

To change lines look for these signs. This one shows the way to line 2.

There are also signs on the platfrom. They will help you to havigate yourself. (To the lines 3 and 5 in this case).