BEST PLACE TO STAY IN THAILAND – KHAO SOK HOTELS AND FLOATING BUNGALOWS

Khao Sok is undoubtably one of Thailand’s most popular national parks. The landscape is dotted with dramatic karst mountains, beautiful lakes and wildlife, providing easy access to Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui and other popular Thai destinations. Khao Sok National Park has two sides: the village side and the sea side. It is advisable to stay in both areas to get a real feel for the place. Khao Sok Village is a funky little place with several relaxing bars, restaurants and shops. Most hostels and hotels are within walking distance, so you don’t need a taxi.

One of the most beautiful places in Khao Sok is the emerald waters of Lake Cheow Lan, surrounded by towering limestone hills. The lake is about 2 hours drive from Khao Sok Village. The lake is full of stunning Karst terrain and quickly fills the camera’s memory card. You can visit the lake for a day or stay overnight. Your accommodation is located in a “floating bungalow”, a simple hut with floating beams. When I say floating bungalows, don’t think of Maldivian water bungalows. These places are very basic.

The biggest advantage of staying at Cheow Lan Lake is the fact that you are actually staying in a bungalow floating on the lake. Consider the Maldives, but it’s a little more basic. Don’t expect first-class service in most water bungalows in Khao Sok. From my own experience, and from talking to others, most places offer only the basics.
But you come to Cheow Lan Lake for swimming, wildlife observation and hiking. Therefore, it’s okay if you go on a safari in a remote place.

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