Jungle Trekking in Khao Sok National Park

Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani province protects 739 square kilometres of ancient rainforest — estimated to be 160 million years old, significantly older than the Amazon. The park is home to Asian elephants, tapirs, gibbons, hornbills, leopards (rarely seen), and the spectacular Rafflesia kerrii — the world's largest flower, which blooms for just 3–5 days at unpredictable times. The park's centrepiece is Cheow Lan Lake, an emerald-green reservoir surrounded by dramatic limestone karst cliffs and floating bungalow accommodations accessible only by boat. Jungle trekking options: half-day guided treks (฿400–800) on the park's main trail network, passing through tall canopy forest with excellent bird and wildlife watching. Full-day treks venture further into the park interior, reaching waterfalls (Tan Sawan and Wing Hin are the main destinations) and areas where elephant tracks are commonly spotted. Overnight treks with forest camping give the richest experience — waking to the sound of gibbons calling at dawn is worth the logistical effort. Floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake (฿600–1,500/night per person in basic floating accommodation, ฿2,000–4,000 in upscale versions) place you in the middle of the reservoir surrounded by karst — a quintessentially southern Thai landscape. Guides are required for all treks within the park. The park is accessible from Khao Sok town, 1.5 hours north of Surat Thani, and makes an excellent stopover between Bangkok and Koh Samui/Koh Phangan.