Khao Sok National Park & Chiew Lan Lake: Thailand’s Most Spectacular Rainforest Escape

Discover Khao Sok National Park and Chiew Lan Lake, Thailand’s most breathtaking rainforest destination. Explore floating bungalows, jungle trekking, wildlife safaris, and private Khao Sok tours with local experts.

Where is Khao Sok National Park?

Khao Sok National Park is located in Surat Thani Province in Southern Thailand, between Phuket, Krabi, and Khao Lak. Covering over 739 square kilometers, Khao Sok is one of the oldest rainforests in the world — even older than the Amazon.

At the heart of Khao Sok National Park lies the breathtaking Chiew Lan Lake (also known as Cheow Lan Lake), a vast emerald reservoir surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and ancient jungle.

This image captures exactly why Khao Sok has become one of Thailand’s most iconic natural destinations.

Chiew Lan Lake: The Crown Jewel of Khao Sok

Chiew Lan Lake is not just a lake — it is the defining experience of Khao Sok National Park.

Created in 1987 after the construction of Ratchaprapha Dam, the lake flooded a dramatic limestone valley, forming over 100 small islands and endless fjord-like landscapes.

From above, the view reveals:

• Turquoise water winding through jungle-covered mountains

• Dramatic limestone karsts rising vertically from the lake

• Longtail boats navigating through hidden lagoons

• Secluded floating raft houses along the cliffs

This is why travelers search for:

• “Best Khao Sok tour”

• “Chiew Lan Lake floating bungalow”

• “Khao Sok overnight package”

And this is where your brand becomes powerful.

Why Khao Sok National Park is Different from Other Destinations in Thailand

Unlike Phuket’s beaches or Krabi’s island hopping, Khao Sok offers:

• Ancient rainforest biodiversity

• Freshwater lake scenery

• Wildlife encounters (elephants, hornbills, gibbons)

• Floating bungalows in the middle of nature

• Authentic jungle experiences

Khao Sok National Park combines adventure, serenity, and exclusivity in one destination.

It is perfect for:

• Nature lovers

• Couples seeking private experiences

• Families wanting educational eco-travel

• Birdwatchers

• Luxury eco-travelers

Best Things to Do in Khao Sok National Park

The most iconic experience in Khao Sok is staying overnight in a floating bungalow.

Wake up to mist rising over limestone mountains.Step directly from your room into emerald water.Join morning safari boat rides to spot wildlife.

Search demand keywords:

• Khao Sok floating resort

• Chiew Lan Lake raft house

• Khao Sok 2 days 1 night

• Khao Sok 3 days 2 nights

This is the experience shown in the image — remote, dramatic, unforgettable.

Private Longtail Boat Tour on Chiew Lan Lake

A private boat tour allows guests to explore:

• Hidden lagoons• Limestone cave systems• Coral Cave• Scenic viewpoints• Sunset photography spots

Private tours perform extremely well in search when paired with:

• Private Khao Sok tour

• Chiew Lan Lake private boat

• Khao Sok luxury experience

Jungle Trekking in Khao Sok Rainforest

Inside Khao Sok National Park, visitors can:

• Trek to waterfalls

• Spot rare Rafflesia flowers

• Learn about jungle ecology

• Discover medicinal plants

• Explore bamboo forests

Long-tail keywords:

• Khao Sok jungle trekking

• Khao Sok guided tour

• Khao Sok wildlife safari

Wildlife Safari in Khao Sok

Khao Sok is home to:

• Wild elephants

• Gibbons

• Dusky langurs

• Hornbills

• Monitor lizards

Early morning and late afternoon boat safaris on Chiew Lan Lake provide the best opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Best Time to Visit Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok is a year-round destination.

Dry season: December – AprilGreen season: May – November (dramatic mist & fewer tourists)

Many photographers prefer the green season because the lake is fuller and the rainforest more vibrant.

How to Get to Khao Sok

Khao Sok National Park is easily accessible from:

• Phuket (2.5–3 hours)

• Krabi (2.5 hours)

• Khao Lak (1.5 hours)

• Surat Thani Airport (1.5 hours)

Private transfers are recommended for comfort and flexibility.

Why Book Khao Sok with Local Experts

When visiting Khao Sok National Park and Chiew Lan Lake, local expertise makes the difference.

Experienced operators provide:

• Seamless transfers

• Licensed guides

• Safe boat captains

• Curated floating resort selection

• Flexible itineraries

• Eco-conscious travel

Booking with a specialized Khao Sok operator ensures your experience is smooth, safe, and unforgettable.