Khao Sok National Park is one of Thailand’s most important birdwatching destinations, home to an extraordinary diversity of resident and migratory bird species.
Thanks to its ancient rainforest, rivers, wetlands, and forest edges,
birdwatchers can observe a wide variety of tropical birds throughout the year.
Notable species include sunbirds, bee-eaters, kingfishers, raptors, and the iconic Great Hornbill.
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Khao Sok
Bird Checklist


Hornbills of Khao Sok National Park
Hornbills are among the most iconic and sought-after
bird species in Khao Sok National Park.
There are over 50 hornbill species worldwide, with several species recorded in Khao Sok, making the park one of the best places in Thailand to observe these magnificent birds in the wild.
Hornbills are easily recognized by their large curved bills and distinctive casque, which plays a role in vocal resonance and species recognition. In Khao Sok, birdwatchers may encounter species such as the Great Hornbill, Oriental Pied Hornbill, Rhinoceros Hornbill, and Helmeted Hornbill, depending on location and season.
Most hornbill sightings occur in the early morning, particularly along forest edges, riverine forests, and fruiting trees, where these birds are often seen feeding or flying across the canopy.
The Rock Bird' (Rhinoplax vigil)

The Helmeted Hornbill (Rhinoplax vigil) is one of the most remarkable and rare hornbill species found in Southeast Asia.
It is the only species in the genus Rhinoplax and is easily recognized by its massive solid casque, which can account for up to 10–11% of its body weight. In Thailand, the Helmeted Hornbill inhabits lowland evergreen forests and is most commonly recorded in the southern
peninsular forests. While sightings are rare, Khao Sok National Park and surrounding protected areas form part of its historical range.
Due to habitat loss and illegal hunting for its casque, the Helmeted Hornbill is classified as Critically Endangered. Spotting this species in the wild is considered a once-in-a-lifetime experience for serious birdwatchers.
Woodpeckers of Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park is home to at least 18 species of woodpeckers, making it one of the best places in southern Thailand to observe these fascinating forest birds. Woodpeckers belong to the Picidae family and are well adapted
to life in dense rainforest habitats.
They are easily recognized by their strong, chisel-like bills, which are used for drilling into tree trunks tosearch for insects and to excavate nesting cavities. Their unique feet, with two toes facing forward and two backward, allow them to grip vertical tree surfaces with ease.
Notable species found in Khao Sok include the Great Slaty Woodpecker, the largest woodpecker in the world, along withvarious flamebacks and piculets. Woodpeckers are most often seen or heard during early morning birdwatching walks,
when their distinctive drumming echoes through the forest.

Chestnut-headed Bee-eater (Merops leschenaulti)

The Chestnut-headed Bee-eater (Merops leschenaulti) is one of the most colorful and easily recognizable birds found around Khao Sok National Park. This species belongs to the bee-eater family (Meropidae) and is well known for its graceful flight and vibrant plumage.
In Khao Sok, Chestnut-headed Bee-eaters are commonly observed along forest edges, open woodlands, and near rivers and wetlands, where they hunt flying insects such as bees, dragonflies, and butterflies. They are often seen
perched on exposed branches before launching into the air to catch prey.
These birds are most active during the morning and late afternoon, making them a favorite subject for wildlife photographers and birdwatchers visiting the Khao Sok area.

Birdwatching Tour Packages
in Khao Sok National Park
& Cheow Lan Lake
Flexible birdwatching itineraries ranging from 2 to 4 days,
guided by experienced local birding experts.
Birdwatching Tours in Khao Sok National Park & Cheow Lan Lake
Our birdwatching tours in Khao Sok combine rainforest trekking, lake scenery, and expert birding guidance — perfect for both beginners and experienced birdwatchers.
Enjoy a full-day birdwatching tour in Khao Sok National Park, one of Thailand’s most biodiverse rainforest areas.
This experience includes guided walking and light trekking through jungle trails, forest edges, and waterfall areas while searching for iconic bird species such as hornbills, sunbirds, kingfishers, eagles, and many more.
Our experienced English-speaking birdwatching guide will assist you throughout the day, helping identify birds by sight and sound, while also sharing insights about the unique flora and fauna of Khao Sok National Park.
Adult Rate Per person
8,500 THB
Package includeds
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English-speaking birdwatching guide
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Khao Sok National Park entrance fees
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Accident insurance
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Lunch, soft drinks, and drinking water
Itinerary – Full Day Birdwatching Tour
06:00 – Hotel pick-up in Khao Sok area
07:00 – Birdwatching around Khao Sok village and forest edges
08:00 – Enter Khao Sok National Park and begin birdwatching along jungle trails and waterfall areas
12:00 – Lunch break near Bang Hua Raed Waterfall and time to relax
14:00 – Afternoon birdwatching session in different habitats within the park
16:00 – Return to the visitor center and transfer back to your hotel



A Trusted Birdwatching Experience in Khao Sok National Park
For years, birdwatchers, wildlife photographers, and nature lovers from around the world have trusted Khao Sok Travel for authentic birdwatching experiences in Khao Sok National Park
and Cheow Lan Lake.


















































































