There are plenty of hiking and trekking opportunities in Khao Sok National Park, a popular nature reserve about 160km north of Phuket and 70 km away from Khao Lak. It boasts an expansive area beset with lush tropical rainforests full of giant bamboo and liana trees.
Those who often make an excursion to hike here note that navigating the area allows you to hear cicadas humming and encounter giant praying mantises and spiders. You’ll get the chance to get close to monkeys, too.
As if that’s not enticing enough, nature lovers will be delighted to know that it is reportedly home to white-handed gibbons and Asian elephants. If you want to go on a unique hiking experience in Khao Sok, here’s everything you need to know:
How to go from Khao Lak to Khao Sok
The easiest way to travel from Khao Lak to Khao Sok is by taking a bus towards Surat Thani. Around 35 to 45 minutes after leaving Takua Pa, the bus will pass the junction for Khao Sok National Park. This is your signal to get off at the Khao Sok bus stop.
From there, you can reach out to a pick-up truck driver to take you to your destination. The cost should be no more than 50 baht per person.
If you opt to rent a car and drive, it will take you approximately 1.15 hours. You should drive north to Takuapa on Highway 4, and then east on Highway 401, towards Surat Thani.
Trekking deep into Khao Sok National Park
If you opt to go on a full-day trekking adventure, expect to spend around five to eight hours of moderate to challenging hiking. And when preparing for the trek, don’t forget to bring your swimming suit so you can have a dip in the river. Be sure to bring cash, too, as you’ll have to pay for the entrance ticket to the National Park.
As you navigate the area, you’ll get the chance to walk along the path. If you have a guide, they will tell you many interesting details on the different kinds of bamboos, orchids, and lianas that grow in the park.
To mix things up and change the pace, you may also want to look into different trekking routes. Some of them include visiting a cascading waterfall and sacred swimming pools. As you trek, keep your eyes open to see three species of monkeys, giant hornbills, and even gibbons.
If you don’t want to have a guide, a GPS app can help you explore the area without causing you to get lost. You can make the hike to the Ton Kloi waterfall, enjoy a brew and bath at the picture-perfect post-hike sunset spot like Art’s Riverview Lodge, or just go on your own pace and take in everything beautiful around you.
When you go back to Khao Lak, you’ll surely be looking for a way to relax and unwind after a stressful albeit satisfying day at the park. Deva Som Khao Lak boasts stunning villas with awe-inspiring views that can help you clear your head and alleviate stress. Book a stay with us today.
