How many reasons do you need to hear to pack your bags and leave to Thailand as soon as possible? Probably not many, as this incredible country in Southeast Asia is on the bucket list of many worldwide travelers. However, have you wondered why so many people long to spend at least a day in this marvelous country? Once you see the pure nature of Khao Sok National Park, you will probably wonder no more, as it seems like you have arrived in paradise from where leaving would seem undesirable.
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See the mesmerizing Khao Sok National Park
If you ever thought of backpacking Thailand one day, the chances are big that you were probably thinking the most about its unbelievably fascinating sandy beaches. Moreover, you probably feel warm deep inside since Thailand’s coast is a remarkable feature of the country. However, that is not all the beauty there is to see. Apart from the stunning architecture and the enlightening culture found in every corner of the country, Thailand is known for its spectacular natural features that are almost impossible to be found someplace else. One such place is the hidden pearl of Thailand, an attraction you will enjoy getting lost in, the wonderful and seemingly mysterious Khao Sok National Park.
Located in Surat Thani province, there’s this marvelous national park which is believed to be one of the oldest rainforests in the world. It is also familiar that this is Thailand’s rainiest spot and is known to be an area with a high level of diversity. The specific conditions and the tropical climate brings the spectators to their state of worship while encountering the variety of species along the way. As a result, you will be surprised to see a lot of bamboos and huge smelly flowers, such as the rare Rafflesia Kerrii, which in Thailand only lives in the area of the Khao Sok National Park. Other than these plants, you can get to know many interesting and somewhat new types of fruit like mangosteen, jujube, durian, pomelo, jackfruit, rambutan and so on. The wildlife is yet another great thing about this park – you can encounter so many amusing new species that you might even not know existed. Keep your head up for some unexpected meetings with a Malayan tapir, banteng, wild boar, sambar, serow, muntjak, tigers and bears, 300 bird species and so on. This region is full of incredible and rare wild animals, some of which are found to exist only there.
Scenic spots you must visit
Having in mind its diverse terrain, this place sure has a lot of picturesque corners that will make you fall in love. You will be amazed by the mudstone and sandstone rocks and their incredible formations incorporated in the whole landscape. The rain and some additional weather conditions have led to the erosion of the limestone mountain range, which has come to the creation of one of the most famous sights of this park. We are talking about the famous limestone rock formations rising above the water, making tourists worship their elegant beauty. On the other hand, activate your exploratory spirit and start your hunt for the most breathtaking lakes, stunning valleys, and amusing caves. Now to see every attraction and enjoy the park adequately, make sure to decide whether you will be doing this by yourself or you will book a tour. The park can be accessed from Khao Sok Village by following any of the three good trails. Moreover, for the most famous and probably one of the most enjoyable and scenic sights, make sure to visit Ratchaprapha Dam.
Things to do in Khao Sok National Park
Having such remarkable beauty, Khao Sok seems like it was made for the total pleasure of all senses. Moreover, this is not offered only by a simple day spent sightseeing. Luckily for all visitors, this place offers plenty of activities that will make you forget about time. One of the very first things you should consider doing is to go kayaking and explore the wonders of Khao Sok from a different perspective. Once you paddle through the jungle, you will get to know the pure pleasure of this place. For an even more authentic experience, try out bamboo rafting on an original wooden platform or go canoeing. If you are in for some adrenaline rush, and you better be once you approach this natural beauty, then consider some of the following activities like swimming, zip-lining, mountain climbing and jungle trekking. However, something you should try out as you will rarely have the chance to do it elsewhere is to meet elephants and enjoy a day of elephant trekking. Moreover, after you get tired from a day full of joy and excitement, you can spend the night at the magnificent resorts and wooden bungalows that are charming, nicely decorated and located next to the water for a fantastic view of the surroundings.
When to visit Khao Sok National Park?
Getting to this particular destination is easy, as you can approach the park from several nearby towns and villages. However, whether you are planning on visiting and you want to have a great time, you should decide upon the best period of the year to do that. This is important since the park faces various climate conditions that may at some point of the year worsen your stay there and disrupt your plans of having some fun. So to get the most of your visit, consider traveling to this region of Thailand during the dry season which starts at the beginning of December and lasts until April. Try to avoid the June to October season because of the monsoon and the frequent rains which are making the trails slippery, thus more dangerous and dirty. Also, traveling this season means that you are going to be just a part of the big crowd visiting the park, and we all know how hard it is to enjoy the allure of nature with many tourists surrounding you.
Thailand is such a captivating country that you will probably love every corner of it. However, Khao Sok National Park offers you a sweet escape into the nature and wildlife of Thailand, helping you explore the diverse flora and fauna and filling your heart with delight from the spectacular landscapes. Are you ready to discover a new outstanding national park?
