Khao Lak is one of the best and most beautiful tourist areas in Thailand. Holidays at the Khao Lak resort in Thailand Khao Lak Island in Thailand
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Khao Lak
Khao Lak is a section of the coast of the Andaman Sea, located 80 km. north of Phuket. It got its name from the mountains of the national park of the same name, which dominate the surrounding area and create the unique landscapes of Khao Lak.
Khao Lak's lifestyle is very different from nearby Phuket. Unlike the latter, Khao Lak is not crowded, not fussy and much more moderate in prices. The difference with Phuket is especially striking when you see the beaches of Khao Lak, clean, long and practically deserted, and compare them with the beaches of Phuket, the number of tourists on which exceeds all imaginable limits.
In addition to its impressive beaches, Khao Lak's advantages include its convenient location in relation to the islands of the northern Andaman Sea and numerous national parks located within a radius of 100 km. from Khao Lak. It is not surprising that with such an advantageous location, many consider Khao Lak not only as a place for a beach holiday, but also as a base for trips to the islands of Surin, Tachai, the Similan Islands and forested national parks such as Khao Sok National Park.
Beaches of Khao Lak
Of the beaches listed above, the southern ones Nang Thong and Bang Niang are the most heavily developed by the tourism industry and most of the hotels in Khao Lak are located next to them. Unlike the first two, Khuk Khak beach is almost untouched by civilization, is rarely visited and remains in its pristine state.
The second most important group of Khao Lak beaches is located in the bay north of Cape Pakarang and includes beaches and. The length of these beaches is approximately 8 km. and in their vicinity there are, for the most part, very expensive hotels.
In addition to the beaches located north of the national park, there is another group of beaches located in the south, between the mountains of the national park and the Tap Lamu pier (the departure point for ships to the Similan Islands). The length of these beaches is insignificant and is approximately 2 km.
Islands of the northern Andaman Sea
60 km. off the coast of Khao Lak there is a group of islands that includes the Bon Islands, the Richelieu Rock and the islands.
The islands listed above, with some degree of convention, can be divided into two groups: those that are of interest to the widest range of vacationers and islands that are interesting exclusively for divers.
The first group includes the Similan Islands, Tachai Island and the Surin Islands. All three feature crystal white coral beaches, pristine rainforest and shallow coral reefs adjacent to the islands, providing excellent snorkeling opportunities. By all accounts, snorkeling in Similan is one of the best, if not the best, in all of Thailand. However, this statement is no less true for diving than for snorkeling.
The second group of islands, accessible only to divers, includes Bon Island and Richelieu Rock (). These two places are famous, first of all, for the fact that in their vicinity you are likely to encounter large sea inhabitants, such as a whale shark or a giant stingray. The list of attractions in Beaune and Richelieu is not limited to these giants. Suffice it to say that of the 400 species of fish and 200 species of coral in the Andaman Sea, most can be found in these two places.
Read more about the islands of the northern Andaman Sea
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The Similan Islands are one of the most beautiful places in southern Thailand. Monumental granite cliffs, snow-white coral beaches, dense tropical forest and clear blue water - all this leaves an unforgettable and incomparable experience. The underwater world of the archipelago is no less impressive and, by all accounts, the diving and snorkeling in Similan is considered to be some of the best, if not the best, in all of Thailand. |
In general, Tachai and Similans are quite similar to each other. Like the Similan Islands, Tachai has a stunning beach with blue water, white coral sand and lush tropical vegetation. Directly opposite the beach there is a shallow coral reef, an excellent place for snorkeling. Deeper diving spots are also present. In addition, the island has a trail through the jungle that allows you not only to see the local flora and fauna in detail, but also to enjoy the sounds and smells of the rainforest. |
Despite the fact that Surin, Tachai and the Similan Islands belong to the same group of North Andaman Islands, the Surin archipelago is strikingly different from its more southern neighbors. The coastline of Surin is indented by numerous bays; the surface of the islands is almost completely occupied by high hills covered with impassable tropical forest. There are almost no flat areas on the islands, but at the same time, the sea around the archipelago is shallow, which is unexpected given the hilliness of the islands themselves. As a result, the landscapes of Surin are unusual, unique and leave few people indifferent. |
Underwater world of Richelieu Rock
If you try to list the features of the underwater world of Richelieu Rock, there will be at least three of these features. Firstly, this is a place where you can meet large sharks and rays; secondly, a place where huge (up to a thousand individuals) schools of fish gather; and thirdly, this is a place where underwater life is represented in extraordinary diversity.
Huge schools of fish are one of the most impressive sights Richelieu Rock has to offer. It should be noted that the fish that make up these schools are quite decent in size, up to 60 cm in length. Usually such flocks are formed by a variety of snapper, but there are also flocks consisting of fusiliers and local horse mackerel (herring or trevally scad).
In addition to traditional reef fish, the Richelieu Rock area is home to some rather unexpected creatures. For example, different types of monkfish and scorpion fish that mimic stones and fragments of coral. Other mimetic fish are also present, such as the Ornate Ghost Pipefish, almost invisible against the backdrop of soft coral branches.
The underwater world of Richelieu Rock is not limited to fish. In the area of the rock you can find all sorts of funny mollusks and crustaceans in abundance: colorful harlequin shrimp, colorful sea snails and many other interesting creatures of various shapes and colors.
Forest and coastal national parks in the Khao Lak area
There are several national parks in the Khao Lak area, three of which, (Ao Phang-nga), (Khao Sok) and Khao Lak (Khao Lak - Lam Ru), are worth special mention.
First of all, this is the Ao National Park located in Phang Nga Bay, famous for its unique views, as well as rocky islands with numerous grottoes, caves and inland lakes.
Secondly, there is Khao Sok National Park () - without a doubt, the most impressive forested national park in southern Thailand; a place of rare beauty and very diverse nature.
And finally, this is Khao Lak National Park (Khao Lak - Lam Ru) - a mountain range conveniently located close to the hotels and beaches of Khao Lak; a place visited by even the laziest tourists.
In addition to those mentioned above, in the Khao Lak area there are several more national parks, not as impressive as Phang Nga and Khao Sok, but nevertheless interesting in their own way. If you have enough time and a rental car at hand, driving around Khao Lak and seeing these national parks would be a very good idea.
Read more about the most visited national parks
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Phang Nga Bay Phang Nga Bay (Ao Phang-nga) is one of the main attractions of southern Thailand, a highly unusual and very beautiful place. Famous for its breathtaking views and rocky islands, indented by numerous grottoes, caves and lagoons. In total, there are 42 islands on the territory of Phang Nga, of different sizes and varying degrees of color. The most colorful and recognizable of them is James Bond Island, which before the filming of the famous film bore the modest local name Koh Tapu (literally “Nail Island”)..... |
Khao Sok National Park is home to one of the largest tracts of tropical rain forest in Thailand. There are several long and well-maintained walking trails through the forest, allowing you to get acquainted with the local flora and fauna, as well as enjoy the sounds and smells of the endless virgin forest. Most of these trails go through the hills and slides located along the banks of rivers and streams of the national park. Hiking this type of terrain requires some effort, but the reward is the opportunity to see the many waterfalls of the national park. |
Khao Lak (n.p.) Khao Lak is the closest national park to the resort area of the same name. It is a mountain range that dominates the surrounding area and forms the unique landscapes of Khao Lak. The national park has a rather complex shape and consists of two parts: the mountains located near the coast, which give the name to the entire surrounding area, and the Lam Ru mountains located inland. Despite the fact that the mountains of the national park are visible from anywhere in Khao Lak, tourists see only a small part of the national park, the size of which is quite impressive. The nature, landscapes and lifestyle of all three islands are approximately the same. The coastline of the islands, facing the Andaman Sea, is an almost continuous strip of wild beaches. The eastern side of the islands, in contrast to the western side, is indented by numerous bays and covered with thickets of mangrove forests. The fauna of the islands is rich and varied; The islands are home to wild boars and deer, giant tortoises and exotic birds such as hornbills, among others. Of the three islands, the most populated is the southern island, on whose territory there are several large hotels. The remaining two islands are less developed, especially the northern island of Ra, which is practically untouched by civilization.
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Every year the popularity of Thailand among the Russian population increases several times. Paradise islands, picturesque nature, snow-white beaches with turquoise seas turn the country into a resort of world significance. In addition to crowded places, there are still quiet and secluded resorts in Thailand. And one of these places can be called Khao Lak, which is located in the southern part of the Kingdom.
Khao Lak is one of the few Thai resorts that impresses with its tranquility and comfort. Even at the height of the season there are few people here. Maybe it is precisely because of this that the beaches and the sea itself are distinguished by their cleanliness. Initially, Khao Lak was the name given to a small settlement on the coast of the Andaman Sea. But the rapid development of the tourism sector has united several settlements under this name. If you look at the map now, you can see that geographically it covers the area from the sea itself to the mountain strip. Khao Lak is surrounded by three national parks, where even today you can find unique vegetation and rare fauna.
Very close to Khao Lak is the island of Phuket. The distance between the resort and Phuket Town is about 100 kilometers. Unlike the noisy island, peace and quiet reign on Khao Lak. This is a great place for a family holiday, especially with small children. There are numerous health centers, spas, and yoga clubs here. A visit to Khao Lak can combine an unforgettable vacation with medical procedures.
If you look at the pricing policy, it is slightly higher here than at other popular resorts. This feature can be explained by the remoteness of Khao Lak, the low flow of people, as well as the numerous upscale hotels.
When is the best time to go?
Like most resorts in Thailand, Khao Lak has a clear distinction between seasons based on weather conditions. The best time to travel to Khao Lak is from late November to April. From approximately May to November, the resort area is subject to the western monsoon, which brings rainy weather. But even so, the air temperature practically never drops below 22 degrees. Most of the heavy rains occur at night, and in the morning the sun appears again. Trouble can be caused by strong winds that raise waves, and swimming in the sea has to be postponed. In addition, excursions to the world famous ones are closed.
If you still decide to visit Khao Lak in the summer, it is better to choose a hotel with a well-developed infrastructure. Such hotels have excellent swimming pools, which can be visited on stormy days.
Infrastructure
Despite the fact that Khao Lak is not a particularly popular resort among vacationers, infrastructure development here is high. Of course, there are no huge shopping and entertainment centers within the city, but everything you need can be purchased in one of the many shops in Khao Lak. The most popular supermarket among the local population and holidaymakers is Nang Thong. You can buy everything you need here, from personal hygiene products to all kinds of food and alcoholic beverages.
If you need something non-essential, you can visit the 7/11 stores, which are located throughout the resort. They sell food, basic household items, as well as hot lunches that will be heated for you right at the checkout.
Along the main street and in the beach area there are many shops where you can find inexpensive clothes and shoes.
In order to purchase any souvenirs, it is worth visiting one of the local markets. In the city of Baan La One, there is a market every day, in the area of the central square. In addition to souvenirs, you can find various paintings, figurines, jewelry, etc. there. Also, while visiting the market, you will have the opportunity to try national Thai cuisine, including all kinds of exotic food.
The fresh fruit and vegetable market is open in the morning within Khuk Khak Beach.
There are many restaurants and bars throughout Khao Lak. Lovers of romantic evenings can sit in one of the beach establishments. During dinner you can admire the most beautiful evening sunsets.
More reputable restaurants are located along the central road, and also a little away from the coastline.
It is also worth noting that almost all cafes and restaurants in Khao Lak offer not only Thai cuisine, but also many European ones. The average price for lunch is 200-300 baht.
Attractions and entertainment
There are not many attractions within Khao Lak itself. Many of the resort's beaches are the starting point for the Similan Islands, Bon and, which are among the ten most beautiful places on the planet. The islands are open for visiting only from October to May, so if you are planning a trip to them during your vacation, you should choose a convenient time in advance.
Another interesting place to visit is.
From Khao Lak it is very convenient to get to Khao Sok National Park, which is known for its rich flora and fauna. Within the resort itself you can visit Lam Ru Park, deserted beaches, as well as numerous waterfalls, including Lampi, Sai Rung, Tong Pling and others. Also in the jungle resort, you can ride elephants. And the azure sea is suitable for diving.
Beaches
You will almost never see very many people on the beaches of Khao Lak. This is not a place where you have to show up at 7am to get a seat. Absolutely all the beaches of the resort stretch in a wide strip along the sea and have a smooth transition between each other. If you look at a map, even there it will not be possible to see a clear boundary between them.
The main feature of the resort is that it is very rarely exposed to tropical winds. High reefs create an excellent natural barrier to strong waves. This is what makes it available 12 months a year.
The following beaches are the most popular among vacationers:
1)Khao Lak. This beach is located in the southern part of the resort within the Central Administration of Similan National Park. There are no umbrellas or sun loungers on the beach, but large trees grow right on the seashore, in the shade of which you can hide. A wide variety of souvenirs made from sea shells are sold on the beaches.
2)Nang Tong is one of the most visited beaches in Khao Lak. Within its borders are concentrated upscale hotels and restaurants with excellent cuisine. This is a great place for snorkeling, as not far from the coast there is a beautiful coral reef, where you can see not only a variety of fish, but also turtles. The southern part of Nang Thong offers the opportunity to take some wonderful photos against the backdrop of the evening sunset.
3)Bang Niang– a beach with well-developed infrastructure. One of the few in Thailand that has sun loungers, umbrellas, and various water activities. Not far from the shore there are many massage parlors and various cafes.
4)Pakwip– five-star hotels are concentrated within the beach. Plus, the flow of vacationers here is minimal, which creates additional peace and quiet. The beach is suitable for families with small children or for those who want to escape from the noisy city streets.
Hotels
When planning a train trip to Khao Lak, you should keep in mind that it is not one of the cheapest resorts in the country. There is no accommodation here that costs several hundred baht per night. Most hotels located along the coast have 4 or 5 star status. Accordingly, the pricing policy per day of accommodation will start from 3,000 baht. Among these hotels, I can recommend the following excellent options: Briza Beach Resort, Ramada Khao Lak Resort and JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort and Spa.
A cheaper accommodation option can be found along the central road, where prices will start from 1,500 baht. Among budget hotels, good options are Nautical Home Khaolak, Ruk Cozy, Khaolak Golden Place and Motive Cottage Resort.
Transport
Public transport in Khao Lak includes buses and songthaews. They run along the central highway and can take you not only to the neighboring beach, but also to any other province. Taxis are a convenient means of transportation, especially when you need to cover short distances. There are stands throughout the resort where you can see the average cost of a trip.
If you are vacationing on Khao Lak for a long time, then for convenience you can rent a bike or car. Prices for bikes range from 200 to 350 baht per day. Monthly rent can cost 3500-4000 baht. Car rental prices start from 1000 baht per day.
How to get there?
From Phuket Island
There are 5 main options by which you can get to Khao Lak from Phuket. The easiest way to do this is from the airport, but it is also possible to leave from the capital of the island - Phuket Town.
- The most convenient way is to order. Then you will receive a convenient round trip transfer and a planned excursion program around the resort. Price 1300 baht.
- Another transportation option is a taxi, which is located at Phuket Airport itself. After you leave the terminal, you should go to the taxi stand. They also have a price list for different destinations. A taxi ride to Khao Lak can cost around 1,500 baht. Remember that the initial price of a taxi is often inflated, so do not forget to bargain. This way the price can be reduced by several hundred baht.
- Use transfer services. It can be pre-ordered on the website. The driver will meet you near the terminal exit, help with your luggage and take you to your designated hotel.
- Rent a car. This can be done directly at the airport or order a car on the website. When booking a car on the website, you will immediately see all the available options in different rental companies, you will be able to compare prices and choose the most suitable option.
- Shuttle bus. All buses leave from the bus station in Phuket Town. Therefore, initially you should take a taxi or tuk-tuk to the station, and only then buy a bus ticket. This is the cheapest travel option, since the cost of one ticket is around 100 baht. The journey takes about 2 hours. Bus tickets can be purchased on the website.
From Bangkok
To get from Bangkok to Khao Lak, you can use one of the following options:
- An airplane is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel. The flight takes about one hour. The plane takes off from Bangkok airport and lands in Phuket. If tickets are purchased in advance, their cost can be about 1000 baht. A company like Nok Air offers a comprehensive package that includes not only the flight, but also a transfer to Khao Lak from Phuket. You can book a ticket on the Aviasales website.
- Train - this takes you to Surat Thani province, and then takes a shuttle bus to Khao Lak.
- Bus - leaves from the southern bus station in the capital of Thailand, as well as from Mochit station. When purchasing a ticket, do not forget to indicate that you are traveling to Khao Lak. The fare will range from 620 to 1200 baht, everything will depend on the class of the bus. Keep in mind that the trip will be long. You can purchase a ticket at the ticket office at the bus station or on the website.
Khao Lak on the map
On this map you can see the exact location of Khao Lak resort in Thailand.
We got acquainted with another resort in Thailand - Khao Lak. This is a wonderful place to relax, which impresses with its cleanliness and beauty. It is very easy to get to, and the time spent in these heavenly places will not leave any vacationer indifferent.
Khao Lak is located approximately 106 km north of Phuket city on the Andaman Sea coast and is, without exaggeration, one of the most beautiful tourist areas in Thailand. Located in Phang Nga province, the resort stretches along the Andaman Sea in a continuous strip of 20 km. On one side there are forested hills and mountains of the national park, on the other there are 20 km of beautiful beaches. It is popular for its serene surroundings, and serves as a base point for trips to nearby islands. Phuket International Airport is the starting point for the visit.
general description
There are 7 national parks within a 90 km area around Khao Lak. The coastal strip of deserted golden beaches is one of the longest and most picturesque in Thailand. From Khao Lak you can experience the diverse nature of the national parks, from mangrove forests to karst landscapes with their unusual landscapes of limestone rocks. From here you can visit the world famous Similan and Surin Islands, enjoy colorful coral reefs and the richness of the underwater world. Khao Lak is also the starting point for hiking trails in one of the oldest rainforests on Earth. A great way to see nature is to take an elephant ride through the jungle. All this is possible during a day trip from Khao Lak.
Khao Lak differs significantly from neighboring tourist regions, in particular Phuket. Its attractions include small, secluded coastal resorts, deserted beaches, a family atmosphere and a ban on building buildings taller than the height of a coconut tree.
Compared to places like Patong, Khao Lak can seem boring, especially during the low season (April-November). If exotic nightlife and related attractions are the main reason for your visit to Thailand, Khao Lak is not the place for you. It is designed, first of all, for a relaxing family holiday, nature lovers, as well as those who want to find something unusual for themselves.
When the catastrophic 2004 tsunami struck South Asia, Khao Lak was the hardest hit area in Thailand (over 4,000 dead and over 3,000 missing). Since then, it has made an impressive recovery of its economy and is welcoming tourists again.
2004 tsunami
Khao Lak was one of the coastal areas of Thailand most affected by the tsunami in late 2004. The earthquake that triggered the deadly Indian Ocean tsunami on December 26, 2004 was estimated by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to be equivalent to the power of the 23,000 atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. A tsunami is one of the deadliest natural phenomena. A few hours after the earthquake, killer waves spread out in all directions from the earthquake zone at the speed of a jet airliner and hit the coastlines of 11 Indian Ocean countries. Giant waves, the height of which in some places reached 15 m, irrevocably carried people out to sea, killing them in houses, beaches, streets, causing enormous damage to real estate along the coast. Within a day, more than 150,000 people were dead or missing (some estimates say 300,000) and millions were left homeless, making it perhaps the most destructive tsunami in history.
Within two hours or less, on the morning of December 26, 2004, Khao Lak, with a population of about 5,000, was reduced to a virtual ghost town by the storm, becoming the worst-hit area in Thailand by the tsunami. About 4,000 people died, about half of them tourists. The victims were Bhumi Jensen, the grandson of King Rama IX of Thailand, who were vacationing in Khao Lak, as well as the famous Finnish musician and TV presenter Aki Sirkesalo and his family.
Orientation
The entire Khao Lak area stretches on both sides of Phetkasem Road (or Highway 4). At 1,274 km long, it is the country's longest highway, from Bangkok to the Malaysian border, and one of Thailand's four major highways. The center of the Khao Lak area is 106 km from Phuket town and 76 km north of Phuket International Airport.
During their off-hours, songthaew drivers earn extra money as taxi drivers. They wait for their clients in the central areas of Khao Lak settlements. Their tariffs are significantly cheaper than in a regular taxi.
Many hotels offer free transportation to their clients throughout the day. Contact your hotel's front desk for information. Additionally, some restaurants will offer free transportation within a reasonable distance if you are a regular customer.
Beaches
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| Khao Lak Map |
The main attraction of Khao Lak are kilometers of beautiful, clean, long and almost deserted beaches. One beach imperceptibly merges into the next and stretches for about 20 kilometers. The boundaries between them are usually marked by streams flowing from the mainland to the sea. They are all small, but during high tide the water level rises, and wading on foot is not so easy. Unlike the west coast of Phuket, some of Khao Lak's beaches are accessible for swimming all year round thanks to a ridge of offshore reefs. The most popular beaches are Nang Thong and Bang Niang. The main tourist-oriented infrastructure is concentrated here.
Nang Thong Beach. Nang Thong Beach is the second beach of Khao Lak when traveling north from Phuket. This is the busiest beach, in fact, local tourism began on this beach with the construction of the first small bungalows. The most beautiful and frequently photographed southern part of the beach is often called Sunset Beach, but this name is not generally accepted and is not indicated by this name on many maps. The beach is located opposite the village of Ban La On - the most popular tourist center of Khao Lak with the largest number of shops, restaurants and tour operators.
Bang Niang Beach. After Nang Thong Beach comes Bang Niang. Both beaches are separated by a small but rather deep river. It is unlikely that you will be able to wade it, but for a small fee the locals will transport you in their boat. After the catastrophic tsunami of 2004, Bang Niang beach turned into the most fashionable beach in Khao Lak. Simple bamboo huts have given way to stylish resorts and exclusive private villas. These two beaches (Nang Thong and Bang Niang) are the most popular in Khao Lak, with the largest number of resort hotels and other tourist infrastructure.
Khuk Khak Beach. Further north is the beach itself, Khuk Khak. If you look at the map, you will notice that there are no signs indicating the presence of hotels and resorts. The lack of a large number of vacationers even during the tourist influx season is explained by the lack of hotels and resorts. The beaches of Bang Niang and Khuk Khak are separated by a small stream; at low tide you can wade through it, otherwise you need to rent a bicycle, motorcycle or take a taxi.
Cape Laem Pakarang. Cape Pakarang is the westernmost point of the Thai mainland. Pakarang means coral in Thai. Due to its coral and geographically interesting shape, Pakarang Headland is an ideal location for hiking and snorkeling. When the sea recedes at low tide, small stones, fragments of coral and shells are revealed. For this reason, only a small part of the cape adjacent to Khuk Khak beach is suitable for a beach holiday. But the place itself is very beautiful; a beautiful panorama of the beaches of the south and north of Khao Lak opens from the cape; dozens of species of beautiful tropical birds live in the adjacent green area.
Pak Weep and Bang Sak beaches. Pakarang Cape is followed by Pak Weep and Bang Sak beaches. These are the northernmost, quietest and least developed of all Khao Lak's beaches, with clearer water and calmer waves allowing year-round swimming. The beaches are separated from each other by small, but quite deep streams for wading. Along the promenade of Bang Sak Beach there are many typical Thai cafes and restaurants, and on weekends they are crowded with locals.
Khao Lak Beach. The above group of beaches is located north of Khao Lak National Park. The beach south of the national park (separated by a mountainous headland jutting out into the sea) is sometimes called the south beach, but more commonly Khao Lak Beach. But this name should not confuse you. When talking about the beaches of Khao Lak, we mean the above mentioned northern beaches. At about 2 km long, this granite boulder-covered beach is the smallest of all.
Interesting places
Lampi Waterfall(Lampi). Lampi Waterfall is located about 30 km south from Khao Lak towards Phuket along Highway 4. When you see the blue sign for the waterfall, turn off the road, after 2 km the road ends and a short trail stretches further to the waterfall. The waterfall is located in a beautiful green area, you will see many more locals here than foreign tourists. You can swim at the foot of the waterfall. This beautiful waterfall is best seen in the early morning, when the sun rising over the mountains illuminates it with its first rays.
Police boat 813. In an open field almost 2 km from the shore lies police boat 813 - a mute witness to the catastrophic force of the 2004 tsunami. Almost 10 years later, it remains the most famous reminder of the disaster of that time. Boat 813, along with the police crew, was in the harbor when the surging tsunami wave threw it almost 2 km from the coast. The entire crew of the boat died. The boat was left in the place where it was thrown by the tsunami wave and now serves as a reminder of that tragic event. Boat 813 is located very close to the main street in the Bang Niang village area. Nearby there is an information board about the 2004 tsunami in Thai and English, and work is underway to turn the place into a Museum.
Takua Pa City(Takua Pa or Takuapa) north on Highway 4. Takua means lead in Thai. But strangely, in the 1920s and 1930s the city was a center for tin mining - not lead. In the old quarter of Takua Pa you will find buildings of Chinese-Portuguese architecture of that period, and you can wander around the shops (preferably early in the morning). Located about 30 minutes drive north of the center of Khao Lak. The traditional Takua Pa market and river square is located in the new part of the city, close to the bus station. The area has several good shops and riverside restaurants.
Thai boxing. Every Friday night there are fights at the Muay Thai Stadium in Bang Niang. The competition starts around 21:00, try to arrive 20 minutes early. Tickets can be purchased directly at the stadium entrance doors. http://www.khaolak-muaythai.com/eng.html
Khao Sok National Park. Khao Sok National Park (www.khaosok.com) is one of Thailand's most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries. It is located an hour's drive north of Khao Lak on Highway 4. Walking is the main mode of transportation, as the park has only 2 km of paved roads, and there are several tens of kilometers of hiking trails. Tours include jungle trekking, elephant rides, down-river tubing, kayaking, ziplining, caves and waterfalls. Possible options: hiking through the forest at night, night swimming on the lake and night rafting on the river in a canoe or rubber raft. Many tours include drinks, meals, and lodging. The nine hiking trails range in length from 2 km to 7 km each. The park's visitor center displays small displays of local flora and fauna.
When visiting Khao Sok National Park, first of all try to see rafflesias. These plants are notable for their huge unusual flowers, some of which reach a diameter of more than one meter and a weight of more than ten kilograms. This is the largest flower on Earth. The Rafflesia Trail is located near the National Park Visitor Center on Highway 401 at the 111 km sign. But it’s not always possible to find a flower on your own. Take a local guide or, if you spot a group of tourists with a guide, follow them until they reach the flower. You don't really need a guide, but if you go without one, the chances of finding the flower are small, despite its enormous size.
All guest houses are located along the only paved road in the national park. They all offer similar living conditions (mostly bungalows). Prices range from very cheap to luxury options. Most of them have restaurants, bars, internet and travel agencies. Even during peak season it is not difficult to find accommodation. Below are links to sites offering accommodation in Khao Sok National Park:
It is advisable to stay in the park and book a tour lasting 3-4 days. Choose a tour that includes at least one night on the lake in a houseboat for an unforgettable experience. Below are links to sites offering tours in Khao Sok National Park:
Another famous attraction of Khao Sok National Park is Cheow Lan Lake. The lake of extraordinary beauty was formed as a result of the construction of the Rachaphrapha dam on the Phra Saeng River in 1982. Despite its artificial origin, the lake was formed very beautiful thanks to many bays, which before the flooding were mountain valleys, and now the entire lake is surrounded by limestone cliffs.
Access to the Rachaphrapha Dam is open to everyone. Next to the dam there is a mountain with a recreation area, cafes and restaurants. The panorama of the lake from this mountain is amazingly beautiful. Bungalows have been built on the shore of the lake. All of them belong to Khao Sok National Park. You can stay overnight in these bungalows (for an overnight stay, you must pre-book a room at Khao Sok National Park or book a trip through a tour company) and book raft trips around this beautiful lake. Combination tours with jungle treks and cave visits are offered. Cheow Lan Lake and Rachaphrapha Dam is located 2 hours north of Khao Lak off Highway 401.
Khao Lak National Park - Lam Ru. The area immediately south of the village of Hat Khao Lak is included in the huge (125 km2) Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park. The name of the park gave the general name to the entire resort region - Khao Lak. The park's landscape consists of a combination of sea cliffs, 1000 m high hills, beaches, estuaries, valleys and mangrove forests. Wildlife includes hornbills, drongos, tapirs, gibbons, monkeys and Asian black bears.
The park's information center is located just off Highway 4. It has a nice open-air restaurant on a shady slope with beautiful views of the sea and surrounding mountains. From the restaurant you can walk along a fairly easy 3 km round trip trail that heads along the headland and ends at a deserted beach.
A popular attraction in the park is Chong Fah Waterfall. It is located 10 km from the coast opposite Bang Niang Beach. Getting to the waterfall is easy - there is a sign for the waterfall on Highway 4, at this point you need to turn off and drive to the parking lot. Further on there is a path leading to the waterfall.
The park's activities, in addition to visiting the waterfalls, include trekking through the rainforest, which is sure to impress visiting holidaymakers. The forests of Khao Lak are not at all like the jungles of other Thai regions. Giant trees 50 m high, bamboo 20 m high, and vines stretching upward for tens of meters grow here. Relaxing on the beaches of Khao Lak and not visiting the forest of the national park of the same name would be a big mistake.
What to do, what to do, tours from local tour operators
The highlight of your stay in Khao Lak is an elephant ride. Asia Safari Camp serves as the starting point for a combined elephant trekking and bamboo rafting tour. After the elephant ride, a short stop, lunch and then rafting down the river on a bamboo raft. The construction of the raft is quite simple: a series of long bamboo poles are tied together with two cross sections for seating and the raft is ready. The boatman pushes off with a long pole, and the raft slowly floats downstream. The journey by water takes about 20 minutes. In addition to www.khaolaklanddiscovery.com, this tour can be booked on the Khao Lak Travel Center website www.khaolaktravelcenter.com
Diving
Khao Lak is the most convenient starting point for trips to the Similan Islands, home to some of Thailand's best corals and a rich underwater world. This archipelago of nine islands is a Thai national park and is considered one of the best diving spots in Asia. The park is open from December to May, closed to visitors the rest of the year. The trip to the island usually takes 1-2 hours by speedboat. Several companies offer tours of 1, 2, 3 and even 5 days. There are also some good places near the coast, local companies offering a wide range of following tours.
Sea Dragon Dive Center. This is one of the few companies that offers tours all year round. The company specializes in multi-day tours with overnight stays on board a boat, trips to the Similan Islands, Ko Bon, Richelieu Rock, local reefs and wrecks, training and PADI certification. Since the popular Similan Islands are 60 km from the mainland (about three hours by boat), the company offers accommodation and overnight stays on board the boat. In this case, you will have the opportunity to stay on the islands when there is not a large influx of vacationers. More aimed at divers, this company offers interesting trips for snorkelers who can choose a specialized tour with accommodation on board at a discount of about 40%. Website www.seadragondivecenter.com
Similan Dive Center. Offers tours all year round. Single and multi-day live-aboard trips around the Similan Islands, Ko Bon, Ko Tachai and Richelieu Rock. The company is run by a Khao Lak local with 20 years of experience in the scuba diving industry. Website www.similandivecenter.com
Wicked Diving. Diving and snorkeling tours of 3 and 5 days to the Similan and Surin Islands with onboard accommodation options, swimming with whale sharks, manta rays, turtles and reef sharks. The company also offers PADI training and certification courses. Website www.wickeddiving.com
Similan Diving Safaris. A special feature of this company is four days of accommodation on board with a high level of comfort. The company has many years of experience in specialized trips to the Similan and Surin Islands, the islands of Bon and Tachai and the world famous Rock of Richelieu. If you don't have time to do multi-day trips, there is the option of day diving or snorkeling tours in the Similan Islands and Koh Bon. Website www.similan-diving-safaris.com
IQ Diving. The company offers scuba diving, snorkeling tours on the coast of Khao Lak, visiting the Similan Islands, and diving in shipwrecks. Small and large groups, some tours are geared towards families. Website www.iq-dive.com
Kon-Tiki Khao Lak Diving & Snorkeling Center. Established in 1996, the company offers training and PADI certification, and overnight tours on board a boat. In addition to the coast of Khao Lak, it offers scuba diving tours to Krabi, Koh Lanta, Phuket. Website www.kontiki-thailand.com.
Manta Point Dive Center. Worked in Khao Lak since 1999. One-day and multi-day (with an overnight stay on board) trips to the Similan Islands and Richelieu Rock. Snorkeling in the Similan Islands, training and obtaining a PADI certificate. Website www.mantapoint.com
Octavia Dive Center. This company offers divers and snorkelers a range of trips to the Similan Islands. Website www.oktaviadivecenter.com
Snorkeling
Similan Dive Center. This is one of the best companies offering diving and snorkeling in Khao Lak. Snorkeling tours depart daily to the Similan Islands and Koh Tachai. Trips to the Similan Islands with an overnight stay for two or three days. Website www.similandivecenter.com
Similan Tour offers well-organized snorkeling only on board a boat lasting 3 days and 2 nights, departing on Tuesdays and Fridays. The company is managed by Swedish management. The Swedes have built their own bungalows (Poseidon Bungalows) and offer them for rent to their clients. They are located on the southernmost beach of Khao Lak. This company has been offering tours to the Similan Islands for over 20 years. Website www.similantour.com
Khao Lak Land Discovery. Snorkeling tours (day and overnight) in the Similan and Surin Islands. The guides are Germans, Swedes and Englishmen. Website www.khaolaklanddiscovery.com
Andaman Snorkel Discovery. The company offers snorkeling tours for 3 days and 3 nights in the Similan Islands, Ko Bon, Tachai and Surin Islands. The combination of trips to these islands can be considered unique for scuba diving enthusiasts. Website www.andamansnorkeldiscovery.com
Fantastic Similan Travel. A popular company offering snorkeling tours in the Similan Islands. The tours of this company received good reviews on the forums. www.fantasticsimilan.com
Surfing
OneTwoSurf(located on Bang Niang beach). Equipment rental and surf lessons with a certified instructor. Tour packages include the best places in the Khao Lak area, provides accommodation, meets its clients at Phuket airport from May to November. Website www.onetwosurf.com
Pakarang Surf Shop gives surfing lessons, rental of surfboards, kayaks, rental of bungalows. Website www.pakarangsurfshop.com
Climate and best time to visit
The climate of the Khao Lak region is influenced by the southwest and northeast monsoons. The southwest monsoons begin to blow in April. Streams of warm, moist air from the Indian Ocean move into the interior of the continent, bringing with them significant precipitation. Peak in October, this is the wettest month in Khao Lak. Subsequent months, under the influence of the prevailing northeast winds from China, make the weather much drier, March being the hottest month.
In simple terms, Khao Lak has two seasons:
Rainy season (April to October).
dry season (November to March).
Khao Lak receives a lot of rainfall per year (3558 mm). Even in the dry season it sometimes rains, especially at the beginning and at the end, sometimes the precipitation is heavy but mostly short-lived. On the other hand, the area is quite sunny and always warm during the rainy season, with high humidity.
From a tourist's point of view, the dry season is the ideal time to visit Khao Lak. Christmas and New Year are especially popular and the most expensive in terms of accommodation prices. December, January and February are perhaps the peak months for visits. During the rainy season, the cost of living drops by 50%, many restaurants, bars and shops close, but some remain open as Khao Lak tries to attract tourists throughout the year. Tours to the neighboring Similan and Surin Islands are also canceled from May to October inclusive due to weather conditions.
How to get thereAirplane. The nearest airport from Khao Lak is in Phuket (distance approximately 80 km). Alternatively, you can choose Krabi. Both airports accept international and domestic flights.
The cost of a taxi from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak depends on the landing time: the later you arrive, the more expensive the taxi will cost. Local taxi drivers offer exorbitant prices, so we strongly recommend that you make a reservation on the official Khao Lak Taxi website (www.khaolaktaxi.com) or arrange in advance with the hotel where you are going to rent to pick you up at the airport. Otherwise, you will have to pay an indecently high cost for the trip, which lasts only 1 hour.
To save money, from the airport you first need to get to Highway 4 (about five kilometers from the airport), which has regular bus services to Takua Pa, Ranong or Surat Thani. Buses run only during the day, they all pass through Khao Lak and stop anywhere along the road where you ask.
Train. This is a less convenient travel option compared to the bus. The nearest railway station is at Surat Thani. From there you can take a bus to Khao Lak. By the way, the train is by far the cheapest way to get to Khao Lak. There are three classes of carriages - 1st, 2nd and 3rd. The first class is the most comfortable, has two beds and a sink, the 2nd class consists of bunk beds similar to our reserved seat. 3rd class carriages have slightly soft seats. There is no need to worry about food; hawkers at the stations offer many options for cheap food and drinks. The total trip (train and bus) will take about 12-14. For more information about trains, visit the official website of Thailand Railways (www.railway.co.th)
Bus. Khao Lak is on the main road between Phuket and Bangkok. The distance to Bangkok is approximately 750 km along Highway 4. All buses go through Khao Lak in transit, that is, there are no buses whose final stop is in this resort region. There are many buses via Khao Lak on Highway 4 from Bangkok, Phuket, Ranong, Surat Thani and Takua Pa. Most of them will stop at your request anywhere, VIP buses stop only at BKS bus terminals. BKS is a state-owned bus company. Its small terminal is located near the market in the center of Khuk Khak.
Sensimar Khaolak Beachfront Resort, description in Russian on booking.com at this link
Khaolak Laguna Resort, description in Russian on booking.com at this link
Le Meridien Khao Lak Beach & Spa Resort, description in Russian on booking.com at this link
Mukdara Beach Villa and Spa Resort, description in Russian on booking.com
Hi all!
Our trip to Thailand in July 2013 began at the resort Khao Lak or Khao Lak .
This is a "quiet" place on the west coast of the Malay Peninsula.
Large Thai resorts are famous for being crowded and lively, especially during the season. Tourists go there for parties and entertainment.
Khao Lak is one of the places where you can enjoy privacy, tranquility and nature. This is a more family-friendly holiday, with clean deserted beaches.
Located approximately 100 km from Phuket.
We flew on vacation with friends, a family with two children, we had our own company, there was no one else needed.
I wanted silence, clear sea, exotic places and a minimum of people.
Khao Lak fit that description exactly.
Flight and road to the hotel
Long flight 9 hours.
We were lucky with our seats; we sat by the window, just the two of us with my husband. We had an overnight flight, we slept almost all of it, sitting more or less comfortably together on three seats.
You can also get there by taxi or public transport, saving significant money.
There were a lot of us, with children and suitcases, so this option was not suitable. In addition, such a journey would take three hours.
Hotel
Checked into a hotel Mukdara Beach Villa & Spa Resort .
In Phuket, hotels practically do not have their own territory. All beaches are public, there are a lot of people on them.
In Khao Lak, our hotel had a huge picturesque area with a bar, a large swimming pool and a restaurant by the sea.
Restaurant
There were practically no people in the hotel. Literally a few middle-aged Europeans. There were no Russian tourists except us in the hotel. Moreover, during our 9 days in Khao Lak, we met only one couple of Russian guys. Of course, we met.
The hotel also had a gym, beauty and massage salon with high prices.
During the season, prices at this hotel are very high, but in the summer they drop significantly.
Weather
The season in Khao Lak is from November to May. In June, most cafes and restaurants close due to heavy rains and lack of tourists.
We went at the beginning of July, when cafes were just starting to open. But the prices are, of course, more favorable.
The first three days of our stay in Khao Lak there were torrential rains.
We managed to become depressed; walking through puddles is not the most interesting activity.
On the fourth day of our stay in Khao Lak, the sun appeared. Of course, it was happiness.
In 9 days we managed to swim and get a good tan. But still, it rained almost every day, there were many cloudy days, it was frustrating.
Khao Lak is more designed for a beach holiday; besides swimming, there is not much to do here.
Where to go in Khao Lak
There are no large shopping centers here. But there are many souvenir shops, clothing stores, many massage parlors and spas.
There is a massage right on the shore of the wild beach.
A market where it is better to go early in the morning. After lunch, sellers begin to leave.
Near Khao Lak there is a picturesque lighthouse.
Everything is designed for a quiet, secluded holiday.
Sea
Khao Lak is located along the coast Andaman Sea.
It is very different from the sea in Phuket. In Phuket, these are bays with little or no waves. Here we hit big waves.
At first it was even a little scary to swim, but then we got used to it, I wanted to swim)
We frolicked in the waves, it was a lot of fun!
Once I even lost my swimsuit panties))). They were simply pulled together by a wave while I was trying to get out of it).
On some days there were no waves, the sea was calm and calm. And there were days with such huge waves that we didn’t risk getting in there, we swam in the pool.
The Andaman Sea captivated me. It's incredibly beautiful. In Khao Lak it is different from the beaches of Phuket. The sea is a magical gray color and the sand is red.
The beaches of Khao Lak are mostly wild and deserted. Our hotel beach was very clean and equipped with sun loungers.
There was no one else on the beach except us all these days. This is amazing, I have never seen anything like this anywhere else!
Very beautiful sunsets!
Nutrition
Only breakfast was included.
There is no point in taking all-inclusive in Thailand; it usually turns out to be expensive. There are a lot of cafes and restaurants where you can eat tasty and inexpensive food.
Khao Lak has many different cafes and restaurants, mostly with seafood.
The locals don’t understand English at all, let alone Russian. Unlike Phuket, where Thais understand and speak Russian well.
Sometimes in restaurants the waiters did not bring what they asked for.
We found a cafe where the owner is Swedish. He moved to Thailand a few years ago, married a Thai woman, opened his own restaurant business and lives happily for his own pleasure. He spoke English well, told and recommended a lot of useful things. We often went to his restaurant, he always came out to us, talked and tried very hard.
In Thailand you have to be careful with cocktails with ice. To be sure of the quality of the ice, it is better to choose more decent restaurants. In very cheap ones, ice can be frozen from tap water, which is not drinkable in Thailand! Only bottled!
But during our month of stay in Thailand, we were lucky enough to never run into low-quality food or water.
In the last three days in Thailand, we bought sliced fruit at the market and caught some rubbish (((. We sat on the potty all three days. We ate all the supplies of pills that were brought from Russia, and even bought some pills there. My husband was released after three days, and upon arrival I was admitted to the hospital in the infectious diseases department. Fortunately, they didn’t find anything serious with me, but my fever lasted for more than two weeks.
So, be careful. You can and should buy fruits. But it is better to cut and wash them thoroughly yourself, especially if the intestines are weak.
Summer is fruit season in Thailand, and this is the time when you can try almost all the exotic fruits that can be found in these parts.
Huge selection of seafood! Shrimp, lobsters, crabs, scallops, various fish.
My favorite was the tuna.
All this is usually barbecue, very tasty and the price was very reasonable.
Of course, after the dollar jump, prices are no longer so pleasant, but still cheaper than in Russia. And most importantly, everything is fresh, just caught.
At low tide, locals catch crabs and immediately cook them in a cafe on the shore.
The famous Thai Tom Yam soup, which is famous far beyond Thailand! We ate it every day.
The waiter should always say “No spice” (no pepper) if you are not a fan of spicy things. Otherwise, they swell the pepper so much that it is often simply impossible to eat.
Thai cuisine is very spicy. The Thais themselves put a lot of chili peppers for themselves, they are used to it and this is how they are disinfected).
I was crazy about Thai rice. It is always served with fish and seafood dishes instead of bread. They cook it in such a way that it turns out very tasty on its own, I couldn’t help but finish it). Similar to the rice they put on rolls in Russia.
Duck is very popular and also very tasty. It is cooked in a special sauce and it turns out completely different from ours.
Thailand has several local beers. Sold in glass bottles at 0.33. The beer is very cool, soft, not bitter at all.
I liked Sinha the most, it is also the most popular.
Delicious and varied cocktails. Pina colada is served in coconut, the pulp of which I later also ate.
In 2013 (before the crisis) prices were 1/1 (1 ruble = 1 baht).
The cocktails, compared to ours, were more than half the price.
Excursions and attractions of Khao Lak
There are not many excursions in Khao Lak. We were only on two, we went to both “at our own pace”. They took knock Knock, You can also rent bikes.
Khao Lak Lam Rhu National Park
The route is not difficult, children aged 5 and 7 managed it well.
We spent several hours climbing in the park.
Huge trees.
Picturesque sea view
Towards the end it became a bit difficult, very hot and humid. The paths are very slippery in places; comfortable sports shoes would be a good idea.
There is access to the beach, we swam.
The bar on the beach was not open, it was not the season, but there were no people except us.
There are a lot of people here during the season.
We ate at a local restaurant with a beautiful view of the sea.
The trip took the whole day.
Lampi Waterfall .
Located 30 minutes drive from Khao Lak. The walk to it is not tiring, since it is located not far from the road.
The waterfall has three levels. If you're not too lazy, you can go up and see all the levels.
At the very bottom of the waterfall Lumpy you can swim. It's allowed and safe.
Excursions in Khao Lak from private guides and travel agencies.
Online ordering on Pomogator.Travel: no intermediaries or prepayments!
Khao Lak is a fairly young Thai resort, which, however, has already gained popularity among tourists who prefer peace and quiet. Khao Lak is located in the Phang Nga region, on the western coast of the Adaman Sea. The area includes many islands. It is quite far from civilization here - the nearest city, Phuket, is located 80 km north of Khao Lak. This is an ideal place for a secluded, relaxing holiday. Residents of megacities will find a real paradise here. There are no nightclubs or noisy discos here.
Kingdom of nature. This is not just a resort, it is the largest national park in Thailand, with an area of 150 km2. Wild mysterious jungle, magnificent waterfalls, bizarre curves of mountain ranges, mangroves. And of course, snow-white 
the beaches, stretching for many kilometers, are clean and practically deserted. Only in Khao Lak can you see the rarest species of plants and animals in their natural habitat. But with all this, the resort is ready to offer its guests a lot of interesting entertainment. Here you can practice not only traditional sports, but also ride elephants or climb inaccessible mountain peaks.
Video from Khao Lak
Khao Lak is a unique nature reserve. There are three national parks around the resort, which are the main attractions of Khao Lak. The largest Khao Lampi National Park is Hat Thai Muang. Its area is 72 km2, and in this area tourists...
Khao Lak Tours and Activities
The Similan Islands are one of the attractions of Khao Lak, but it is located quite far from it. Therefore, tourists can book an excursion trip there. To get to the islands you will have to take a boat; the journey will take 2 hours. The archipelago includes a lot of islands; for convenience, they are called by numbers. Between the 4th and 8th islands, divers can admire amazing marine life while diving in the Andaman Sea. On the 8th island, those who prefer sunbathing will definitely want to soak up the sun. Here is the famous “Sailboat” rock, which really resembles a sail in shape, and nature lovers will appreciate this beauty. And true romantics will probably want to stay on the island until the morning to spend and meet the sun in a bungalow and have dinner on the seashore. This excursion costs $84 per person.
Phuket is located 80 km from Khao Lak, so it takes a long time to get there. But many tourists go to the city on a sightseeing tour. The cost and duration of the excursion depends on the program. The classic program is a visit to the most famous Buddhist temple, Wat Chalong, where great monarchs are buried; then a visit to the sea gypsy village on Rawai beach; At the end, tourists can wander through the local markets and admire the southern coast of Phuket. But you can go on a shopping trip, then the program will include more markets and other places of trade than cultural attractions.
History of Khao Lak
The history of Khao Lak is not as ancient as that of many resort towns in Thailand. It dates back to the 19th century. Then large deposits of aluminum were discovered in this territory. Wealthy Chinese rushed to natural resources and founded a small...
Khao Lak is located in a tropical climate zone. But, despite the fact that it is located in the south of Thailand, the climate here is not quite the same as in other southern resorts. The rainy season in Khao Lak starts in June and ends in October.
But from March to May, clear, sunny weather reigns here - the air temperature during the day stays at +35°C, and the water temperature reaches +29°C. This is the best time to holiday in Khao Lak. Despite the heat, air humidity is very low, so tourists will not feel much discomfort. It will be useful for tourists to familiarize themselves with when planning a vacation.
Khao Lak: entertainment and active recreation
One of the most popular entertainments in Khao Lak is, of course, elephant riding (see). On the territory of the resort there is a park called Asia Safari Camp, where tourists can ride these exotic animals. The program also includes river rafting on a bamboo raft (see). After riding the elephants, there is a short break and lunch, and then you can start rafting. A bamboo raft is a very simple but durable structure made of bamboo poles and divided into two sections for seating. The rafting takes about 20 minutes.
Another interesting type of outdoor activity in Khao Lak is mini golf, designed in the style of a “jungle adventure” game. The site is open to all fans of the game around the clock, and is illuminated at night. The essence of mini-golf is that, after missing several holes, the player is forced to start all over again.
From Khao Lak it is very convenient to get to the Similan Islands. On the territory of the archipelago there is a national park, which is open from October to May. It is considered to be the best diving site in the region. The famous coral reefs of Khao Lak can be seen here in all their glory. Unique flora and fauna, amazing marine animals, stunning views - this is what awaits divers who dive into this part of the Andaman Sea.
Tour operators organize trips for divers for 2, 3 and 5 days. You can get to the Similan Islands by speedboat, it will take 1-2 hours.
Transport features of Khao Lak
Public transport is not Khao Lak's strong point. The only road is Highway 4, there are cars rushing along it at high speeds and it is very dangerous to travel on the road. There are also no regular buses that operate exclusively in the Khao Lak area.
Therefore, tourists can choose one of the following options for moving around the resort.
- On foot. This is not the safest way, because the roads are not in the best condition, there are no sidewalks, and pedestrians can be hit by a scooter on the roadway. When walking along the highway at night, it is better to take a flashlight with you so that drivers can see the pedestrian.
- On a scooter. Probably the cheapest travel option. Scooters can be rented at any hotel. The only negative is that in the event of an accident involving a Thai, the law will take his side, regardless of the circumstances.
- By bike. This is a more expensive option. Bicycles can also be rented from hotels, but the rental cost is twice as much as a scooter.
- By taxi. It is better to agree on the price right away; local taxis do not have meters.
- Songthaew is the only mode of transport available in Khao Lak and is used by local residents. It is a pickup truck with four wheels and two rows of seats in the rear. Sometimes (rarely) there is a sign with a list of stops, but in Thai. To stop a songthaew, a tourist just needs to vote and then ask the driver where it is best to get off. To exit the songthaew, you must press the button or knock on the roof if there is none. The trip must be paid in advance.
Many hotels offer their guests free transport, you can ask the administrator about this. Some restaurants can provide this service to their regular customers.