Khao Sok National Park

History & Significance

Established on December 23, 1980, Khao Sok National Park covers an area of approximately 741.01 square kilometers (463,131.43 rai) in the Phanom and Ban Ta Khun districts of Surat Thani Province. It serves as the heart of the 'Rainforest Mountain' and is part of a massive forest conservation complex totaling over 2.2 million rai. The park is a vital watershed for the Tapi River and features a highly diverse ecosystem. Historically, it was a habitat for the extremely rare Sumatran rhinoceros, with the last local record of one being hunted in 1965, and subsequent track surveys conducted by conservationist Seub Nakhasathien in 1987.

Highlights & What to See

The park is divided into two main zones, each offering unique natural wonders:

• The Mountain & Headquarters Zone: This area features lush jungle trails and beautiful waterfalls, including Bang Hua Raet, Ton Kloi, Sip Et Chan, Wing Hin, Than Sawan, and Mae Yai waterfalls. It is also the prime location to search for the Rafflesia (Bua Phut), the world's largest flower. This parasitic plant grows up to 50-60 centimeters in diameter, taking 8-9 months to bud but blooming for only 4-5 days, typically between November and April.
• Ratchaprapha Dam (Cheow Lan Lake) Zone: Known as the 'Guilin of Thailand,' this zone features majestic limestone cliffs rising from the emerald waters. Key attractions include Khao Sam Kloe (the iconic three limestone peaks), Pakarang Cave (Coral Cave), Kraisorn Viewpoint, and several floating raft houses such as Prai, Khlong Ka, Kraisorn, and Ton Toei.

The park is also a haven for rare wildlife, including four protected species: Fea's muntjac, serow, Malayan tapir, and marbled cat, alongside wild elephants, gibbons, and rare birds like Gurney's pitta and banded pitta.

Visitor Information

Khao Sok National Park is open daily from 08:00 to 17:00. The best time to visit is during the dry season from December to April. The park experiences heavy rainfall from May to November due to monsoons from both the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Admission Fees:

• Mountain & Headquarters Zone: Thai citizens: Adults 40 THB, Children 20 THB. Foreigners: Adults 200 THB, Children 100 THB.
• Ratchaprapha Dam Zone: Thai citizens: Adults 40 THB, Children 20 THB. Foreigners: Adults 300 THB, Children 150 THB.
• Combined Same-Day Ticket: Visitors exploring both zones on the same day pay only once at the highest rate (Thai citizens: Adults 40 THB, Children 20 THB; Foreigners: Adults 300 THB, Children 150 THB). Please keep your ticket with you at all times for inspection.

Facilities include bungalows, campsites, a recreation building, welfare shops, and a scenic natural stream flowing past the park headquarters.

How to Get There

The park headquarters is located at Moo 6, Khlong Sok Sub-district, Phanom District, Surat Thani Province 84250. It can be reached via local transport or private vehicle from Surat Thani city or neighboring provinces. For inquiries, contact the park office at 0 7739 5139 or 0 7739 5154-5.