Khao Sok National Park lake stay (Cheow Lan Lake)
Cheow Lan Lake (also called Ratchaprapha Reservoir) is a dramatic rainforest reservoir inside Khao Sok National Park. A lake stay typically includes boat transfer from the park jetty, overnight in floating bungalows or longtail-boat camps, guided jungle walks, canoeing, and optional cave or viewpoint visits. Expect towering limestone karsts, emerald water, misty mornings, and abundant wildlife.
Location
Cheow Lan Lake (Ratchaprapha Reservoir), Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani (nearest town: Khao Sok / Phanom / Cheow Lan area), Thailand
Duration
Common options: 1 night / 2 days (most popular) or 2 nights / 3 days for a more relaxed experience. Day-trips are possible but give a limited experience.
Best Time to Visit
Best: December to April (dry season — clearer skies, calmer water, easier hiking). Shoulder: November and May (variable). Wet season (June–October) brings heavy rain, choppier waters, limited access, but dramatic scenery and fewer crowds. Note: some operators do not run in peak monsoon months.
Pricing
Typical package prices range from THB 2,500–6,000 per person for a 1-night/2-day standard package (shared boat/floathouse). Higher-end private or deluxe floating bungalows can cost THB 6,000–12,000+ per person depending on season and inclusions. National park entrance and boat fees may be additional (~THB 300–1,000).
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Floating bungalows and overnight on the lake: unique accommodation right on emerald water.
Towering limestone karsts and jungle-clad cliffs rising from the lake.
Guided rainforest treks and wildlife spotting (gibbons, macaques, hornbills, elephants are possible but sightings not guaranteed).
Kayaking or canoeing between limestone coves and caves; cave exploration (e.g., Chong Gha Raek or other local caves) depending on water levels.
Sunrise and misty mornings over the lake — excellent photography and birdwatching.
Night-time amphibian and insect life around the floating camps.
Opportunity to combine with Khao Sok jungle trekking, river tours, or transfer to islands (Koh Samui/Koh Phangan/Koh Tao) via Surat Thani.
Itinerary
Travel to Khao Sok/National Park jetty; park check-in and meet guide.
Most packages include transport from Khao Sok town, Surat Thani, or nearby hotels. Bring a daypack and swimsuit.
Boat transfer across Cheow Lan Lake to floating bungalows; lunch on the lake.
Scenic transfer across channels; expect multiple stops for viewpoints and photo ops.
Optional canoe/kayak, short jungle walk or cave visit.
Activities depend on package and water levels; guides lead wildlife-spotting sessions.
Dinner at floating bungalows; night walk or relaxed stargazing.
No streetlights — excellent for stars but bring a headlamp.
Sunrise/photography, morning trek or longtail boat excursion to viewpoints/caves.
Early starts rewarded with mist and animals active at dawn.
Return boat transfer to jetty and onward travel.
Pack up and check out; communicate transfer times with operator.
Safety Requirements
Lifejackets provided for all boat and canoe activities — wear them at all times on the water.
Bring waterproofing for electronics and valuables; floating bungalows are stable but wet landing points are common.
Tropical rainforest hazards: leeches (seasonal), slippery trails, insects — bring suitable clothing and insect repellent.
Weather can change quickly; follow guides' instructions during storms and high water.
No open fires on floating platforms; some remote medical evacuation time required — disclose medical conditions to operator.
Tips
Book in advance during December–February; consider a 2-night stay to reduce transfer stress and increase activity time.
Pack: quick-dry clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, waterproof bag for electronics, small torch/headlamp, sturdy water shoes or sandals.
Cash: floating camps are remote — bring cash in Thai Baht for bar, tips, and extras; ATMs are not available on-site.
Respect wildlife: keep distance, do not feed animals, and follow the guide's instructions for sightings.
Photography: bring a polarizing filter for vivid water/sky shots and a waterproof case for phones/cameras.
Transport notes: typical boat transfer is 30–60 minutes from the jetty depending on route; some packages include pickup from Surat Thani airport/Phang-nga/Khao Lak.
Sustainability: choose operators that follow park rules, avoid single-use plastics, and contribute to local conservation or village communities.
Important: if you get motion sick, bring medication — some routes on the lake and longtail rides can be bumpy.
