Nestled in the heart of Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand, Cheow Lan Lake is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts tourists from all over the world. With its crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and towering limestone cliffs, the lake is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Let’s take a closer look at this enchanting destination and discover why it should be on your travel bucket list.
Getting to Cheow Lan Lake
The easiest way to reach Cheow Lan Lake is by flying into Surat Thani or Phuket, which are the nearest major airports. From there, you can take a bus or private taxi to Khao Sok National Park, where you can arrange a boat ride to the lake. It’s also possible to rent a car and drive to the park, although the roads can be narrow and winding.
Exploring the Lake and its environs
Once you arrive at Cheow Lan Lake, you can spend your days exploring the water and the lush rainforest that surrounds it. The lake covers an area of around 165 square kilometres and is home to a variety of fish, birds, and other wildlife. One of the most popular activities on the lake is kayaking, which allows you to paddle through the narrow channels between the limestone cliffs and explore hidden caves and waterfalls.
You can also take a boat tour of the lake, which will give you a chance to see some of the more remote areas and spot wildlife such as gibbons, macaques, and hornbills. The lake is also a great place for swimming and fishing, and there are several floating bungalows where you can stay overnight and wake up to the sound of nature.
Hiking in Khao Sok National Park
Cheow Lan Lake is part of Khao Sok National Park, which is one of the oldest and most biodiverse rainforests in the world. The park covers an area of around 738 square kilometres and is home to a vast array of plants and animals, including tigers, elephants, and bears.
One of the best ways to experience the park is on foot, and there are several hiking trails that you can explore. The most popular is the Khao Sok Trekking Trail, which takes you through the heart of the rainforest and past waterfalls, hot springs, and limestone caves. The trail can be challenging, so make sure you are prepared with sturdy footwear and plenty of water.
Accommodation and Meals
There are several options for accommodation near Cheow Lan Lake, including floating bungalows, jungle resorts, and guesthouses. Most of these places offer basic amenities such as hot water and air conditioning, but don’t expect luxury.
As for dining, there are several restaurants and food stalls near the lake that serve traditional Thai dishes such as pad thai, green curry, and tom yum soup. You can also try some of the local specialties, such as bamboo rice and fried insects.
Final Thoughts
Cheow Lan Lake is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and range of activities, it offers something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on a floating bungalow, hike through the rainforest, or kayak through hidden caves, this enchanting lake is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
