2-Day Solo Adventure: Khao Sok National Park - Unexplored Gems & Nightlife

Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

2 days

Floating wooden lodges
National park landscape
Floating village at Cheow Lan lake
Drone photo of the Cheow Lan lake
Tourist posing in front of the rock formations

About Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Khao Sok National Park, Thailand's hidden gem. This tropical rainforest, one of the oldest in the world, offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the park's diverse wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and over 300 bird species. Embark on a canoe journey down the Sok River, hike through lush trails, or marvel at the majestic limestone cliffs. Don't miss the stunning Cheow Lan Lake with its floating raft houses, a perfect spot for swimming and kayaking. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a relaxation lover, Khao Sok National Park promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Thailand's natural beauty.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Rainforest and River Adventure

Morning

Start your day with a guided trek through the lush rainforest of Khao Sok National Park. Discover the diverse flora and fauna, and keep an eye out for rare bird species.

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the tranquility of the rainforest. Savor the local Thai cuisine, with dishes like Pad Thai or Green Curry.

Afternoon

Embark on a canoeing adventure on the Sok River. Experience the serene beauty of the river and its surrounding landscapes.

Dinner

Relish a traditional Thai dinner at a local eatery. Try dishes like Tom Yum Soup or Massaman Curry.

Evening

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Khao Sok. Visit a Local Night Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and try street food.

Morning

Start your second day with a visit to the stunning Cheow Lan Lake. Take a boat tour and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch by the lake. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings while savoring your meal.

Afternoon

Explore the Pakarang Cave (Coral Cave) with its unique formations. Don't forget to bring your camera!

Dinner

Dine at a local restaurant, trying out more Thai specialties like Khao Soi or Mango Sticky Rice.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing Thai massage at a local spa, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration.

Attractions in Itinerary (6)

Khao Sok National Park

1
Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park is a nature reserve in southern Thailand containing dense virgin jungle, towerlike limestone karst formations and the man-made Cheow Lan Lake. It is home to rare species such as the giant parasitic Rafflesia flower, hornbill birds, gibbons and tigers.

Parks
Attractions
Tours
Sok River

2
Sok River

A beautiful river that runs through Khao Sok National Park, offering opportunities for canoeing, rafting, and wildlife spotting.

Attractions
Tours
Local Night Market

3
Local Night Market

A bustling market that comes alive in the evening, offering a variety of local Thai food, fresh produce, clothing, and souvenirs. It's a great place to experience local culture and try street food.

Food and Drink
Shopping
Cultural Experiences
Cheow Lan Lake

4
Cheow Lan Lake

A stunning man-made lake in the heart of Khao Sok National Park, known for its floating bungalows and diverse wildlife.

Attractions
Tours
Pakarang Cave

5
Pakarang Cave

A fascinating cave system in Khao Sok National Park, featuring impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations.

Attractions
Landmarks
Tours
Thai Massage at Local Spa

6
Thai Massage at Local Spa

Experience traditional Thai massage at a local spa. Thai massage is a therapeutic practice that involves stretching and deep massage. It's a great way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

Cultural Experiences
Entertainment
Relaxation

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Pad Thai

Pad Thai

A popular Thai dish made from stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, tamarind pulp, fish sauce, dried shrimp, garlic, red chili pepper and palm sugar. It's a must-try when visiting Khao Sok National Park.

Tom Yum Goong

Tom Yum Goong

A famous Thai soup known for its distinct hot and sour flavors, fragrant spices and herbs generously used in the broth. It's a common dish in the region around Khao Sok National Park.

Som Tam

Som Tam

A spicy salad made from shredded unripe papaya. It's a local favorite in Khao Sok National Park and throughout Thailand.

Massaman Curry

Massaman Curry

A rich, relatively mild Thai curry that is an interpretation of a Persian dish. It's a popular choice for tourists visiting Khao Sok National Park.

Khao Pad

Khao Pad

A variety of fried rice that includes meat (chicken, shrimp, or crab), egg, onions, garlic and sometimes tomatoes. It's a common dish in Khao Sok National Park.

Green Curry

Green Curry

Made from green curry paste, coconut milk, meat, and a variety of vegetables. It's a staple in the diet of locals in Khao Sok National Park.

Chang Beer

Chang Beer

A popular Thai beer brand. It's a common drink for tourists to try when visiting Khao Sok National Park.

Thai Iced Tea

Thai Iced Tea

A delicious and refreshing Thai drink made from tea, milk and sugar. It's a popular choice for tourists visiting Khao Sok National Park.

Mango Sticky Rice

Mango Sticky Rice

A traditional Thai dessert made with glutinous rice, fresh mango and coconut milk. It's a must-try when visiting Khao Sok National Park.

Red Curry

Red Curry

A popular Thai dish made from red curry paste, coconut milk, meat, and a variety of vegetables. It's a common dish in Khao Sok National Park.

Pad Krapow Moo Saap

Pad Krapow Moo Saap

A very popular Thai street food dish made from stir-fried pork with Thai basil. It's a must-try when visiting Khao Sok National Park.

Singha Beer

Singha Beer

A well-known Thai beer brand. It's a common drink for tourists to try when visiting Khao Sok National Park.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Khao Sok National Park in Thailand is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this period, the weather is typically sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and exploring the park's stunning limestone caves. However, if you're interested in seeing the park's lush vegetation at its most vibrant, the wet season (May to November) offers a unique experience, with the added bonus of fewer tourists. Please note that some activities may not be available during the wet season due to rainfall.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

February 24

Sat

Makha Bucha

February 26

Mon

Day off for Makha Bucha

April 6

Sat

Chakri Day

April 8

Mon

Chakri Day observed

April 13

Sat

Songkran

April 14

Sun

Songkran

April 15

Mon

Songkran

April 16

Tue

Songkran Observed

May 1

Wed

Labor Day

May 4

Sat

Coronation Day

May 6

Mon

Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day

May 6

Mon

Coronation Day observed

June 3

Mon

Queen Suthida's Birthday

July 20

Sat

Buddhist Lent Day

July 22

Mon

Day off for Buddhist Lent Day

July 28

Sun

King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday

July 29

Mon

King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday observed

August 12

Mon

The Queen's Birthday

October 13

Sun

Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol

October 14

Mon

Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol observed

October 23

Wed

Chulalongkorn Day

December 5

Thu

King Bhumibol's Birthday/Father's Day

December 10

Tue

Constitution Day

December 31

Tue

New Year's Eve

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Private cars are a convenient way to reach Khao Sok National Park from various locations in Thailand. You can hire a car from the airport or city center and drive to the park. This gives you the flexibility to stop and explore along the way.

Taxis are readily available from the airport or city center to Khao Sok National Park. It's a comfortable and hassle-free way to reach the park, especially if you have luggage.

There are regular bus services from various cities in Thailand to Khao Sok National Park. The buses are comfortable and economical, making them a popular choice for travelers.

Minivan services are available from various locations in Thailand to Khao Sok National Park. They are a good option for small groups or families, as they offer more space and comfort than a regular taxi or bus.

Motorbike rentals are available in nearby towns. This is a popular choice for adventurous travelers who want to explore Khao Sok National Park at their own pace. However, this option requires a valid international driving license and experience in driving motorbikes.

Boat trips are a popular way to explore the Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park. You can hire a long-tail boat or join a guided boat tour to explore the stunning limestone cliffs, caves, and wildlife around the lake.

Elephant trekking is a unique and popular way to explore the dense jungles of Khao Sok National Park. It's a great way to get up close with nature and experience the park from a different perspective.

Walking or hiking is the best way to explore Khao Sok National Park. There are several well-marked trails that take you through the dense jungle, past stunning waterfalls, and to viewpoints with breathtaking views of the park.

Ridesharing services like Grab are not widely available in the Khao Sok area due to its remote location. However, you may find some services in nearby towns or cities.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency฿ THB

Time zoneUTC+7

Driving sideLeft

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 191; Fire: 199; Police: 191

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type BPower socket type C

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Khao Sok National Park, Thailand as a first time visitor

1

Khao Sok National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April.

2

The park is located in the Surat Thani province of Thailand, approximately a 2-hour drive from Phuket.

3

The park's entrance fee is 300 THB for foreigners and 40 THB for Thai citizens. Children have a reduced fee.

4

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and over 180 species of birds. However, sightings of larger mammals are rare.

5

There are no ATMs or card payment facilities in the park, so bring enough cash for your visit.

6

The park is a malaria risk area, so it's recommended to take precautions such as using mosquito repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts and trousers.

7

The park's weather is tropical and can be very hot and humid. Average temperatures range from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C).

8

There are several accommodation options available in and around the park, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts.

9

Guided tours are available and recommended for first-time visitors. They can provide valuable insights into the park's flora and fauna.

10

The park is covered in dense jungle and has a complex network of trails. It's easy to get lost, so always stick to marked paths or hire a guide.

11

There are no restaurants in the park, but there are several local eateries near the park entrance.

12

The park has basic facilities such as toilets and picnic areas, but there are no shops or convenience stores.

13

Flash photography is not allowed in certain areas of the park to avoid disturbing the wildlife.

14

It's important to respect the park's rules and regulations to preserve its natural beauty. This includes not littering, not feeding the animals, and not picking plants or flowers.

15

The park is located in a remote area with limited medical facilities. It's recommended to bring a basic first aid kit and any necessary medications.

16

Cell phone service can be spotty in the park, so don't rely on it for navigation or emergencies.

17

The park's terrain can be challenging, with steep hills and uneven paths. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

18

The park's weather can change quickly, with sudden rainstorms common. Bring a raincoat or umbrella.

19

The park's visitor center provides maps and information about the park's trails and wildlife.

20

The park is not wheelchair accessible due to its rugged terrain and lack of paved paths.

Basic Thai to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

สวัสดี

Sawasdee

Greeting someone

Goodbye

ลาก่อน

Laa gòn

Leaving or saying goodbye

Thank you

ขอบคุณ

Khob khun

Expressing gratitude

You're welcome

ยินดี

Yin dee

Responding to thank you

Please

โปรด

Bproht

Making a request

Excuse me

ขอโทษ

Kho thot

Getting attention/ apologizing

Yes

ใช่

Chai

Agreeing or confirming

No

ไม่

Mai

Disagreeing or denying

I don't understand

ฉันไม่เข้าใจ

Chan mai khao jai

Communication difficulties

Do you speak English?

คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม

Khun phuut phaasaa angkrit dai mai

Communication difficulties

I'm lost

ฉันหลงทาง

Chan long thang

Asking for directions

Where is the bathroom?

ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน

Hong nam yoo tee nai

Asking for directions

Help!

ช่วยด้วย!

Chuai duay!

In case of emergency

Call the police

โทรหาตำรวจ

Tho haa tamruat

In case of emergency

I need a doctor

ฉันต้องการหมอ

Chan tongkan mo

In case of emergency

How much does this cost?

นี่ราคาเท่าไหร่

Nee raakhaa thao rai

Shopping

I would like to buy this

ฉันอยากซื้อสิ่งนี้

Chan yaak seu sing nee

Shopping

Water

น้ำ

Nam

Ordering food/drink

Food

อาหาร

Aahaan

Ordering food/drink

Can I have the bill, please?

ขอเอาบิลด้วย

Kho ao bin duay

At a restaurant

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Swimwear

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Quick-dry towel

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Insect repellent

  • First aid kit

  • Personal medication

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Visa (if required)

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel booking confirmation

  • Local currency (Thai Baht)

  • Credit/debit cards

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger

  • Power bank

  • Camera

  • Memory cards

  • Headphones

  • Travel adapter

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Guidebook or map

  • Binoculars

  • Backpack

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Eye mask

Weather Conditions

When planning your visit to Khao Sok National Park in Thailand, it's important to consider the weather, as it can greatly impact your experience. The park experiences a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 36°C (68°F to 96°F) throughout the year. The year is generally divided into two seasons: the dry season, which runs from December to April, and the wet season, from May to November. If you're looking to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting, the dry season might be the best time for you. The weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for exploring the park's trails and waterways. However, if you're a fan of lush landscapes and don't mind a bit of rain, the wet season can be a great time to visit. The park is at its most green and vibrant during this time, and the rain can bring a certain kind of beauty to the landscape. Just be prepared for occasional heavy showers and ensure you pack waterproof clothing and footwear. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. The tropical sun can be intense, so bring plenty of water, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen regularly. Also, remember that weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the local forecast before you set out for the day. This way, you can plan your activities accordingly and make the most of your visit to Khao Sok National Park.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

32° / 22°

January is a great time to visit Khao Sok National Park, with mild temperatures and low rainfall. It's the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife spotting.

February

33° / 23°

February is the driest month in Khao Sok National Park, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities. The temperatures are warm, but not too hot, perfect for exploring the park.

March

34° / 24°

March marks the beginning of the hot season in Khao Sok National Park. The temperatures can get quite high, but it's still a good time to visit if you don't mind the heat.

April

35° / 25°

April is the hottest month in Khao Sok National Park. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy hot weather, but be prepared for occasional showers as the rainy season starts.

May

35° / 25°

May is the start of the rainy season in Khao Sok National Park. The temperatures are still high, but the rain brings a welcome relief from the heat.

June

34° / 24°

June is a wet month in Khao Sok National Park. The temperatures are a bit cooler, but the rain can make some outdoor activities challenging.

July

34° / 24°

July is a rainy month in Khao Sok National Park. Despite the rain, the temperatures are comfortable and the park is lush and green.

August

34° / 24°

August is a wet month in Khao Sok National Park. The temperatures are comfortable, but be prepared for rain if you plan on visiting during this time.

September

34° / 24°

September is the wettest month in Khao Sok National Park. The temperatures are comfortable, but the heavy rainfall can make outdoor activities challenging.

October

34° / 24°

October is the end of the rainy season in Khao Sok National Park. The temperatures are comfortable, but there can still be quite a bit of rain.

November

33° / 23°

November is the start of the dry season in Khao Sok National Park. The temperatures are comfortable and the rainfall is decreasing, making it a good time to visit.

December

32° / 22°

December is a dry month in Khao Sok National Park. The temperatures are mild and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Khao Sok National Park is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, even older than the Amazon Rainforest?

1 of 10

Places near by Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine

Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine

A sacred shrine in the heart of Surat Thani city.

1.5h
109 km / 67.7 mi
How to get there
Cheow Lan Lake

Cheow Lan Lake

A stunning lake with floating bungalows and limestone cliffs.

1.3h
65 km / 40.4 mi
How to get there
Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay

Famous for its limestone cliffs and rock formations, as well as its emerald-green waters.

3h
165 km / 102.5 mi
How to get there
Phuket Old Town

Phuket Old Town

A historical town with well-preserved Sino-Portuguese buildings.

3.5h
190 km / 118.1 mi
How to get there
Krabi Town

Krabi Town

A relaxed town known for its stunning scenery and excellent food.

3h
155 km / 96.3 mi
How to get there
Koh Samui

Koh Samui

Thailand's second largest island, known for its palm-fringed beaches and luxury resorts.

3.5h
140 km / 87.0 mi
How to get there
Koh Phangan

Koh Phangan

An island famous for its full moon party.

4h
150 km / 93.2 mi
How to get there
Koh Tao

Koh Tao

A small island known for its excellent scuba diving.

5h
190 km / 118.1 mi
How to get there

Other Destinations in Thailand