[2025 Ban Ta Khun Attraction] Travel Guide for Cheow Lan Lake (Updated Jun)

Khao Sok National Park is one of the most beautiful and abundant national parks in Thailand. Located in Surat Thani province, it covers a vast area of lush rainforest and is home to the stunning Ratchaprapha Dam (Cheow Lan Dam), which has earned the nickname 'The Guilin of Thailand'. Highlights of Khao Sok National Park: * Rich Nature: * Khao Sok is a lush rainforest with high biodiversity, featuring rare plants and various wildlife species. * It is home to endangered animals such as the Malayan tapir, serow, Fea's muntjac, and marbled cat. * Ratchaprapha Dam (Cheow Lan Dam): * A large lake with stunning scenery, featuring towering limestone mountains above the water. * Tourists can enjoy boat tours, kayaking, or relaxing on floating accommodations. * Various Activities: * Nature Trails: There are several hiking trails to choose from, depending on the difficulty level. * Cave Tours: Explore beautiful limestone caves such as Coral Cave and Nam Talu Cave. * Rafflesia Flower Viewing: See the world's largest rare flower, which blooms during the rainy season. * Wildlife Watching: Encounter various rare wildlife species within the park.

Khao Sok is one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets, a place where nature reigns supreme. Sleep in a floating wooden bungalow on the emerald waters of Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and absolute silence. Wake up to misty mornings, kayak across serene waters, and take longboat rides through the surreal landscape. Back on land, explore lush rainforests that feel straight out of a movie. Spot monkeys, exotic birds, and maybe even wild elephants as you hike through dense jungle trails. Khao Sok is pure magic, wild, peaceful, and unforgettable. #khaosok

This tour to Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park is a breathtaking escape into nature, with its emerald-green waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and lush jungle. The longtail boat ride across the serene lake offers stunning views and a sense of tranquility, perfect for photographers and nature lovers. Highlights include swimming in the refreshing waters, exploring hidden caves, and spotting wildlife like monkeys and exotic birds. The floating bungalows provide a unique overnight experience, though they are basic, so don’t expect luxury. The included meals feature delicious Thai dishes, often cooked fresh by local guides. While the journey from the nearest cities is long and bumpy, the untouched beauty of the lake makes it absolutely worth it. If you’re looking for adventure and a break from crowded tourist spots, this tour is an unforgettable experience!

#springitinerary Who says adventure has an age limit? Surat Thani—gateway to Thailand’s paradise islands and lush jungles—is the perfect weekend getaway for spirited travelers who refuse to slow down. Here’s how I mixed relaxation, culture, and a dash of thrill in this underrated gem! 📍 Why Surat Thani? ✅ Less touristy than Phuket or Krabi ✅ Easy access to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan & Koh Tao ✅ Authentic Thai culture without the crowds Best Time to Visit: November–April (dry season, perfect for island hopping) 🚆 Getting There From Bangkok: 1-hour flight (~1,500 THB) or overnight train (~600 THB, sleeper berth). Local Tip: Rent a scooter (150-250 THB/day) for ultimate freedom! 🌅 Day 1: Riverside Charm & Hidden Temples ☕ Morning: Coffee with a View Start at: Rim Nam Café (floating café on the Tapi River—order the iced Thai coffee!). Explore: Surat Thani Night Market (evenings, but some stalls open early for breakfast bites). 🛕 Midday: Temples & Local Culture Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya (Ancient temple older than Sukhothai!). Surat Thani City Pillar Shrine (Colorful, serene, and full of local history). 🚤 Afternoon: River Cruise & Seafood Feasts Tapi River Sunset Cruise (200 THB, includes fresh coconut & snacks). Dinner: Khao Wang Thong (must-try: Gaeng Som—sour orange curry with fish). 🏝️ Day 2: Island Escape (Koh Samui or Koh Phangan Lite!) ⛴️ Morning: Day Trip to Koh Pha Ngan (Without the Crowds!) Ferry from Don Sak Pier (1.5 hours, ~300 THB). Skip Full Moon Party chaos—instead, explore: Thong Nai Pan Noi Beach (quiet, powdery sand). Than Sadet Waterfall (short jungle trek to refreshing pools). 🍍 Afternoon: Secret Local Island (Koh Mudsum!) Only accessible by longtail boat (300 THB round-trip from Tha Thong Pier). Why go? Wild pigs roam the beach (!), and it’s Instagram gold. 🌙 Evening: Back to Surat Thani for Night Bazaar Surat Thani Walking Street (Saturday only!)—live music, handmade crafts, and mango sticky rice heaven. 🌿 Day 3: Jungle Adventures & Farewell Feasts 🌄 Sunrise: Khao Sok National Park (Day Trip!) 1.5-hour drive—worth every minute! Highlights: Cheow Lan Lake (emerald waters, limestone cliffs—like Halong Bay on land!). Guided canoe tour (spot gibbons & hornbills). 🍲 Lunch: Floating Restaurant on the Lake Fresh grilled fish & spicy papaya salad—eaten with your feet dangling over the water! 🚗 Afternoon: Return & Relax Massage at Baan Suan Massage (open-air, riverside, 200 THB/hour). Last Meal: Krua Thai Pochana (legendary crab curry!). 💡 Why Surat Thani is Perfect for the Young-at-Heart ✔ Adventure without exhaustion—easy-paced but exciting. ✔ Affordable luxury—no overpriced resorts, just authentic charm. ✔ Mix of culture & nature—temples, jungles, and secret islands. Would I return? In a heartbeat! Next time, I’d stay in a floating bungalow in Khao Sok.

#ThaiTravel Cheow Lan Dam or Ratchaprapa Dam is a beautiful and popular natural tourist attraction in Surat Thani Province. In general, various tourist attractions and hotels in the dam area are still open as usual. However, traveling during this period may require consideration of the following situations: * Earthquake situation: * In general, Ratchaprapa Dam is not in an area directly affected by the Sagaing earthquake. However, news and announcements from relevant agencies should be closely monitored to assess the situation. * If there is a warning or advice from the authorities, it should be strictly followed. * Travel and accommodation: * Traveling to Ratchaprapa Dam can be done by private car or bus. * There are various types of accommodation available, both raft houses in the dam and hotels on the shore. It is recommended to check and book accommodation in advance, especially during holidays or festivals. * You can stay at hotels as usual. * Tourist activities: * Popular activities in Ratchaprapa Dam include sightseeing cruises, kayaking, hiking, and caving. * Check the weather and water levels before doing water activities and follow the advice of officials. * The place is open as usual. * Advice for traveling in Thailand during this period: * Follow news and announcements from the authorities closely. Especially information about weather and disaster situations * Plan your trip and book accommodation in advance, especially during the tourist season * Prepare necessary equipment such as raincoats, comfortable shoes, and personal medicine * ​​Respect local rules and culture * Check information from reliable sources before traveling Additional information: * Ratchaprapha Dam is an important multi-purpose dam in the South, with beautiful views of limestone mountains and emerald green water * Interesting activities include boat trips to see Khao Sam Kloe, visiting coral caves, and relaxing on a raft in the middle of the water