Sure, Phuket is great and all, but if you’re the kind of traveller that yearns for the kind of uncomplicated holidays that made Thailand famous in the first place, Khao Lak is for you.
Holidays in Khao Lak are a slight sidestep outside of Thailand’s main tourist hubs. You won’t thousands of restaurants vying for your custom and other overtly tourist-centric experiences such as full moon parties, what you will find is the crystal-clear water of the Andaman Sea lapping gently at uncrowded white sands in one direction, and to the other, three national parks hug the shoreline. The most popular is Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park, which is an invitation to ignore TLC’s advice and DO go chasing waterfalls and traversing through the jungle. Khao Sok National Park, on the other hand, delivers elephant encounters, canoeing and floating raft houses. When you’ve had your jungle fix, roll out a towel on Bang Niang or Nang Thong Beach, both are equally as beautiful, but if you’re after a post-beach beverage, Bang Niang Beach is said to offer more in the way of nightlife options and a bustling market lined with tasty street food. For a truly unforgettable beach adventure, take a boat tour out to Similan Islands for a spot of turtle spotting, snorkelling and diving, or head to Phang Nga Bay for cave hunting, history and some spectacular scenery – these are core memories in the making. If you are the kind of traveller who likes to experience a place before the effects of mass tourism take hold, Khao Lak is for you.
- How many days do you need in Khao Lak?
It depends if you want to do any island hopping while you’re in Khao Lak. Four to five days would be ideal to give you time to explore the national parks, take a day-trip to Similan or Surin Islands and leave time for a little relaxation at the end.
- What is Khao Lak known for?
Khao Lak is known for its exceptional diving. With beautiful coral reefs and rich marine life, it’s not surprising divers come from all over to experience it. It’s also the gateway to the sensational Similan Islands.
- How do you fly into Khao Lak?
Fly in to Phuket Airport or Krabi. Then you can take a taxi or bus to Khao Lak. Both airports cater to both international and domestic destinations.
- What to take on holiday to Khao Lak?
If you’re planning on exploring the jungle, you’ll want comfortable hiking boots as well as clothing that will be light and comfortable in the humidity while protecting you from the sun and rogue sticks and vines. Tropical-strength mosquito spray would also be a great idea! If you’re planning on sticking to the beach, sunscreen, a hat, some swimmers and a good book would serve you well.
- When is the best time to visit Khao Lak?
The peak season in Khao Lak is between November and February when the climate is slightly cooler and outside of the wet season.
- Where to go on holiday in Khao Lak?
Resorts and accommodation options are generally centralised around Nang Thong and Bang Niang Beaches while southern Khao Lak offers a few well-established resorts. Northern Khao Lak tends to be further spread out, making it a little harder to navigate.
- What is there to do in Khao Lak?
Divers are drawn here for the beautiful coral reefs and rich marine life, but Khao Lak is no one-trick pony. Visitors can fill their days exploring the national parks, chasing waterfalls, canoeing, visiting the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre or doing nothing at all on any of the beaches.
- How do I go about cancelling my Khao Lak holiday package?
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- How to find the best holiday package to Khao Lak?
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