Where is Khao Lak on the map of Thailand and how to get there. Excursion to Khao Lak National Park, Thailand - rich, informative and entertaining Khao Lak on which side of the world is located

Lovers of a relaxing holiday are looking for quiet, secluded places where no one will disturb them. Are there still places like this in Thailand? Undoubtedly, in a country popular for tourists, there are still unexplored areas.

One of these places is a resort called Khao Lak. Thailand is visited annually by millions of visitors from all over the world, with the result that during the high season the most popular resorts are filled with tourists. But on Khao Lak you can spend a vacation among the healing silence for the soul.

Khao Lak on the map of Thailand

The name "Khao Lak" used to be a small village located on the coast of the bay. As tourism began to develop in the area, the name began to cover several settlements.

Convenient location allowed settlements eventually become a single resort complex.

Climate and weather

High mountains block Khao Lak from ocean waters, the climate in the settlement is warm. The holiday season starts in November and ends in May. At the height of the rest, the weather is dry and warm, the temperature indicators are kept at around twenty-eight degrees.

At the same time, there is no feeling of sultry hell, because tourists are constantly blown by a light breeze.

Between May and October the resort is unfit for relax. At that time:

  • are spilling heavy rains;
  • raging on the sea storms;
  • settlement overcomes heatwave combined with high humidity;
  • do not carry out popular excursions that are tied to the season.

Experienced travelers who value peace and solitude, on the contrary, choose this time to relax. Prices for accommodation in good hotels below, on a walk you do not meet crowds of other vacationers. If the hotel has a comfortable swimming pool, a spa complex, and the room has air conditioning, you can have a great rest on vacation, regardless of the rainy weather.

How to get there?

It's easier to get into the settlement with Phuket. The airport is eighty kilometers away. There are direct flights from Russian Federation. From the airport to Khao Lak get by taxi, bus or use a transfer.

Airplane tickets can be looked after right now using this form. Specify departure and arrival cities, date and number of passengers.

If you decide to call a taxi, be prepared to shell out a tidy sum. The journey will take one hour. A tourist will spend a smaller amount if he goes to the city for bus. From the airport, this type of transport goes to the bus station or other stop. Final routes buses are:

  1. Chumphon;
  2. Bangkok;
  3. Ranong and other items.

On the way, the bus passes Khao Lak. You have to spend on the road two hours.

They also get to the city from Bangkok. It is recommended to choose bus to Phuket, warning the driver in advance that you need to get to Khao Lak. Most often, buses run at night, so in the morning you will arrive at the hotel. The second suggestion implies a transfer: take a bus to Surat Thani, and then to Khao Lak.

More cheap option travel to the desired city - a trip to train. At night, take a train to Surat Thani, purchasing a ticket for a third-class carriage (conveniences not promised). Travel time will be fourteen hours.

Upon arrival at your destination, continue your journey by bus to Phuket, passing Khao Lak.

Holidays at the resort

In Khao Lak, you can have a great vacation, benefiting your body and soul. The doors of spas, yoga clubs, fitness centers are always open to visitors. Acquaintance with nature, excursions, walks and sunbathing on the beach are an integral part of the holiday. The village of La On is famous for its spa, which provides a service fish peeling.

Infrastructure

Mostly shops, restaurants and hotels are located near the beaches of Nang Thong and Bang Niang. In the evening, guests visit restaurants where they enjoy local cuisine while listening to live music. Youth lounging at the Monkey Bar, dancing to pop, club and reggae.

Lovers of quality alcoholic drinks visit Irish pub located in the northern part of the settlement. Visitors are happy to try beer with snacks and take part in master classes in cooking Thai dishes.

parties take place in local bars that open at five o'clock and work until late. Families with children can visit The Jungle Restaurant. For dinner, you will be offered a wide range of meat dishes, as well as food prepared according to home cooking recipes. For dessert, you can enjoy a delicious cocktail.

Khao Lak is not the best place for shopping, yielding popular resorts. Shopping lovers visit the markets, of which there are about three pieces. The assortment includes commemorative and fruits. In the Nang Thong supermarket, a tourist will find everything they need.

Housing

Most belong to medium and high categories. Basically, rooms cost about three thousand baht (about 5200 rubles) for one night. For this money you will get a comfortable room with a stunning view in a hotel that provides a luxurious swimming pool and a restaurant.

Find a hotel in Khao Lak any category, from one to five stars, housing without an evaluation category, hostels and guest houses are also provided.

  • Among the five-star hotels stands out Jw Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa 5*. It is located on beach line. It offers a variety of room types and free Wi-Fi is available on site. gourmet food, large swimming pool, well-groomed territory make the stay at the hotel unforgettable.
  • Often chosen from four-star hotels Sensimar Khao Lak Beachfront Resort 4*. Reviews of tourists are positive, friendly staff, delicious breakfasts and the opportunity to play sports are appreciated.

In the city, most hotels have three or two stars. Khaolak Golden Place 3* and Khao Lak Relax Resort 2* stand out from these categories.

Beaches

The resort settlement unites under one name seven beaches. All recreation areas are carefully cleaned, so the garbage will not prevent you from enjoying the soft sand and clear warm water.

Two beaches called Nang Thong and Bang Niang are fully equipped for relaxing near the water. The most visited is the first beach. Near Nang Tonga there are a sufficient number of affordable hotels and small restaurants where you can satisfy your hunger. Children will be delighted with the marine life moving along the coast: turtles and crabs.

The Crystal Sea will allow you to see exotic fish swimming in their own waters in a businesslike way. The south side of Nang Tong is famous among travelers as "Sunset Beach". A stunning sea sunset is in the photo of every tourist who has rested here.

Second equipped beach Bang Niang great for families with children. On its territory are:

  1. attractions on the water;
  2. comfortable sun loungers for sunbathing;
  3. salons offering amazing massage.

Each member of the family will find entertainment to their liking. Near the beach there is a snake farm where you can go on an excursion. Near - chong fa waterfall bewitching nature lovers.

Travelers who prefer relaxing holiday in seclusion, choose the beaches Khao Lak and Pakwip. The first recreation area is not equipped with umbrellas and sun loungers, but tall trees cast a good shadow. The nature of this place does not let go, you can admire it endlessly. Tourists have a rest right on the white sand.

On the beach Pakwip you won't find company. It is chosen because of the proximity of comfortable hotels of the highest class and the monastery of Baan Pakwip.

The separation of the beaches is very conditional, the entire coastal area is at the disposal of vacationers. You can stretch out on the sand at any time of the year. During the stormy season, the beaches are hidden behind large reefs, so even at this time tourists indulge water activities : diving and snorkeling.

Cognitive tourism with photos

In Khao Lak, you can spend time not only for the benefit of the soul, but also get food for the mind by visiting and getting to know the local nature.

Main attractions

Basically, all the attractions in the resort are created by nature. There are few interesting places created by man. Those wishing to get acquainted with the culture of the Thais visit the famous Buddhist Padungtampotivas temple. And you can also visit the Chinese temple, which is noticeably different in appearance from Thai shrines.

Chao Por Khao Lak Shrine- translated as "guardian of Khao Lak". This is a statue of a seated man, who is believed to be the patron saint of the resort and protects it from all evil. A separate small temple was built for him, located near the Lampu National Park.

Some guests pay tribute to those killed in the tsunami by visiting the police boat, which stands as a memorial to the victims of the disaster.

Nature

There are many natural places to visit. Tourists must visit Khao Sok National Park, where they relax by Cheow Lan Lake, and go for a walk to the waterfalls. Kids will love the Elephant Farm where they can interact with the majestic animals. In March, travelers have the opportunity to participate in the ritual of releasing little turtles into the sea.

The most visited place, of course, is Khao Sok National Park. The natural treasure consists of lakes, rivers, rock formations, plains and forests. It is spread over an area of ​​seven hundred and thirty square kilometers!

At the entrance to the park are hotels, so you can stay there overnight to continue exploring the park the next day. You can get to Khao Sok on your own using a bus, taxi or minibus. The ideal option is to rent a car or a bike and organize a walk yourself.

Popular excursions

The resort has different options entertainment. The hotels have tour desks where guests can order various excursions. Guests visit:

  • Similan Island, considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world;
  • reserve(one visit can last for three days);
  • lake on which stands an interesting "water" hotel.

Travelers explore the area with mountain bikes, which are rented from the tour desk. In addition to this, in rent issue kayaks, canoes, diving equipment.

See an overview of Khao Lak resort in this video:

If you leave Phuket for the mainland and follow Highway 4 to the north, in an hour you will be in Khao Lak. Many people think that Khao Lak is one beach, which is not entirely true. Khao Lak is the coastal area around Mount Lak in Phang Nga Province. There are a couple of villages here, and the coastline of more than 25 kilometers is divided into several beaches. First, it’s worth telling a little about the Khao Lak area as a whole, so that you get an impression of it. This place is suitable for lovers of a relaxing holiday with the whole family or a romantic couple. There is no stormy music here, only small bars with live music where you can have a glass of beer or drink an exotic cocktail to the sounds of a local band. During the season from November to April, Khao Lak is busy, but during the monsoon season, when waves appear on the sea, the number of tourists decreases and some restaurants and shops close. Waves in low season There are different heights, sometimes it is impossible to go into the water.

Part of Pakweep Beach - White Sand Beach

How to get to Khao Lak

Map of Khao Lak in Russian

South Beach - Wikiwand South Beach

South Beach (or South Beach) is called the coast south of Mount Lac. There are several hotels in the north of the quiet beach. Near them is a tourist village with restaurants, cafes, shops and exchange offices. Of the attractions worth highlighting is Tong Pling (Ton Pling Waterfall) and national park Khao Lak - Lam Ru. If you wish, you can always take a 10 minute taxi ride to the village of La On.


Nang Thong beach

Sunset Beach and Nang Thong Beach - Sunset Beach and Nang Thong Beach

If we talk about Sunset Beach, then there are no restaurants or cafes at all, except in hotels. Hotel guests walk to the village of La On. Literally 10-15 minutes - and you are there. You can walk along the beach, Sunset smoothly turns into Nang Thong, or walk along a convenient sidewalk along Highway 4. La On village is located on the main road of Nang Thong beach. There are many restaurants, cafes, bars, exchange offices, banks, massage parlors, even a couple of 7-Eleven minimarkets, as well as small private supermarkets and even fast food McDonalds.


Bang Niang beach

Bang Niang Beach - Bang Niang Beach

The next beach is called Bang Niang. This is the most tourist developed place in the Khao Lak area. Restaurants, bars, exchange offices, massage parlors, pharmacies, small private supermarkets and a 7-Eleven mini market are plentiful. The center of Bang Niang is the Tsunami Monument on Highway 4. From it towards the beach there is a street with many restaurants, bars, shops and guesthouses. In the Bang Niang area you will find a tsunami museum, transvestite shows, Thai nightclubs and markets - read about them below.

Khuk Khak Beach - Khuk Khak Beach

The Khuk Khuk area with the beach of the same name is suitable for those who are looking for a relaxing holiday. Hotels here can be counted on the fingers. All of them are located away from highway number 4, so guests visit beach restaurants and massage parlors near hotels. The infrastructure of the main road is rather poor, represented by islands of local restaurants and private mini-markets. However, the drive to the neighboring beach is no more than 10 minutes. Of the attractions, you can visit the Butterfly Park and the morning market, which you can read about below.


Between Bang Niang and Khuk Khak beaches

Pakarang Beach - Pakarang Beach

To the north of Khuk Khak is Pakarang Beach, named after the cape. At low tide, the sea goes far, I think that is why there are very few hotels here. The beach is perfect for long walks. There are no shops in this area at all, you will find only a couple of beach restaurants.

Pakweep Beach and White Sand Beach - Pakweep Beach and White Sand Beach

On the north side of Cape Pakarang is Pak Weep Beach - a chic coastline with white sand. The southernmost part of the coast is also called White Sand because of the color of the sand. On the coast you will find several beach cafes, massage, in addition, from the hotels of the northern part of Pakweep beach you can walk to the main road, where there are rare islands of local restaurants and mini-marts. Of the sights, it is worth visiting the Sai Rung Waterfall.


Bang Niang beach

Bangsak Beach - Bangsak Beach

The northernmost beach in Khao Lak is called Bang Sak. There are several beach restaurants and massage parlors, as well as a couple of private mini-markets on the highway. From this area, the closest to go to the village of Nam Khem, where the Tsunami Victims Memorial is located, and to the old town of Takuapa, where an authentic fair is held, read about it below.


Market on Bang Niang Beach

Shops in Khao Lak

There are no large shopping centers in Khao Lak, only plazas and small private supermarkets. large cluster such shops on the beaches of Nang Thong and Bang Niang: Nang Thong Supermarket, Nangthong Park Plaza, Khao Lak Center Point. Here you can buy everything you need for your holiday: sunscreens, beach clothes and shoes, some souvenirs. The nearest shopping centers are 40 minutes drive from the center of Khao Lak - Big C in the new part of the city of Takua Pa and Tesco Lotus in Khok Kloi.

Markets in Khao Lak

On Bang Niang Beach near 7-Eleven, opposite the turn to Tsunami Memorial Park with a military ship, there is a large market three times a week where you can buy snacks, Thai food, fruits, beachwear, shoes and accessories. It is called Food Street or Bang Niang Market. It works on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10 am to 10 pm.
Bang Niang Market coordinates: 8.666744, 98.252431


Old city Takua Pa

Another Sunday Food Market on the outskirts of Bang Niang is held on Sundays. Here they sell ready-made Thai food, fruits, vegetables and seafood. It is easy to find it in the new Build Factory nightclub. The market is open from 16:00 to 22:00.
Bang Niang food market coordinates: 8.678094, 98.252521

In the Khuk Khuk beach area, there is a morning market selling fruits, vegetables and other goods. It is easy to find near the bus station, which is marked on all maps. The market is open from dawn to noon.
Khuk Khak morning market coordinates: 8.686740, 98.253616

One of the most unusual markets is located in the old part of Takua Pa. A little higher, I wrote about the Big C shopping center, from it to the Sunday market another 10 minutes drive. The old town of Takua Pa is known for its history going back to. It is also called the little brother of Phuket Town for the streets in the Sino-Portuguese style and the special atmosphere that has been preserved locals. On Sundays on the streets of the old city of Takua Pa from 15:00 to 22:00, sellers of sweets and other dishes made according to centuries-old recipes set their tables, antiques sellers, and residents of nearby areas flock to the evening promenade. This market is very similar to, which is a kind of Arbat in Phuket. The fair in Takuapa is held only during the high season from November to April.
Takua Pa fair coordinates: 8.829556, 98.364643

Transport in Khao Lak

From the village of La On (Nang Thong Beach) during daylight hours to the north along highway No. 4, a songteo runs - an open bus with two shops. The fare between the beaches is only 50 baht per person. In addition, you can always find a local taxi. See the photos below for the fare for the car - these are the official rates from the center of Bang Niang Beach (near the tsunami museum and the market).


Taxi prices in Khao Lak

Nightlife Khao Lak

There are not as many cereal establishments in Khao Lak as in Phuket. If you are going to Thailand to have fun, it is better to choose discos, bars and. Nightlife in Khao Lak is concentrated in the areas of Nang Thong and Bang Niang beaches. There are many bars with live music here: Happy Snapper Bar, Monkey Bar, Mr Chay's Bar, WonderlanD Bar and others. In the Bang Niang area, on Highway No. 4, there are two Thai nightclubs Zantika and Build Factory. I want to say right away that they are far from the European concept of nightclubs.They are rather large cheerful bars with live music and tables around the hall, around which it is customary to dance.If you come there with a group, it will be interesting.In the very center of Bang Niang, there is a transvestite show Moo Moo Cabaret Show, where colorful performances are held every day at 21:45.


Samet Nangshe viewpoint

Attractions Khao Lak

In Phang Nga province, there are quite a few attractions where you should go. From here it is convenient to get to the island and the Surin Islands, raft down the river on a bamboo raft or arrange rafting in an inflatable boat, or go to. In Phang Nga you can visit, or explore famous cave Elephant stomach or see with numerous islets. I recommend meeting the dawn at the observation deck of Samet Nangshe. In the Khao Lak area itself, there are several waterfalls, elephant farms, a Thai boxing school, a national park with jungle paths and observation deck. A little further south along the coast - hot springs and other natural attractions. More about all interesting places near Khao Lak and in Phang Nga province, follow the links and see them on the map.

»»» Phang Nga Province »»» Khao Lak »»» Beaches, islands and national parks of Khao Lak

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 same name national park dominating the surrounding area and creating unique landscapes of Khao Lak.

The lifestyle of Khao Lak is very different from the 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 Cao beaches Laka, clean, long and almost deserted, and you compare them with the beaches of Phuket, the number of tourists on which exceeds all conceivable limits.

In addition to impressive beaches, one of the advantages of Khao Lak is 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 a favorable location, many consider Khao Lak not only as a place for beach holiday, but also as a base for trips to the Surin Islands, Tachai, the Similan Islands and forested national parks such as Khao Sok National Park.

The beaches of Khao Lak

Of the beaches listed above, southern Nang Thong and Bang Niang are the most heavily developed by the tourism industry and most of the Khao Lak hotels are located next to them. Unlike the first two, Khuk Khak beach is almost untouched by civilization, rarely visited and in its original 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 are located, for the most part, very expensive hotels.

In addition to the beaches located to the 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, including the islands of Bon and, Richelieu rock and islands.

The islands listed above, with some degree of conventionality, can be divided into two groups: those that are of interest to the widest range of vacationers and the 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 near the islands that offer great snorkeling opportunities. By all accounts, Similan snorkeling is one of the best, if not the best, in all of Thailand. However, for diving this statement is no less true 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 can most likely meet large inhabitants of the sea, such as a whale shark or a giant stingray. The list of attractions of Beaune and Richelieu is not limited to these giants. Suffice it to say that out of 400 fish species and 200 coral species in the Andaman Sea most can be found in these two places.

More about the islands of the northern Andaman Sea

The Similan Islands are one of the most beautiful places southern Thailand. Monumental granite rocks, white coral beaches, dense a tropical forest and clear blue water - all this leaves an unforgettable and incomparable impression. The underwater world of the archipelago is no less impressive and by all accounts, diving and snorkeling in the Similan Islands is considered one 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 magnificent beach, with blue water, white coral sand and dense tropical vegetation. Right in front of the beach is a shallow coral reef, a great place for snorkeling. More deep places for diving enthusiasts are also present. In addition, the island has a path through the jungle and allows 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 Similan belong to the same group of North Andaman Islands, the Surin archipelago is strikingly different from its more southern neighbors. Coastline Surina 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 hilly nature of the islands themselves. As a result, the landscapes of Surin are unusual, original and few people are left indifferent.

The underwater world of Richelieu Rock

If you try to list the features of the underwater world of Richelieu Rock, then 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 of accumulation of huge (up to a thousand individuals) schools of fish; and, thirdly, it is a place where underwater life is presented in an extraordinary variety.

Huge schools of fish - one of the most spectacular sights that Richelieu Rock has to offer. It should be noted that the fish that make up these flocks are quite decent, up to 60 cm in length, sizes. Usually such flocks form a variety of snappers, but there are also flocks consisting of fusiliers (fusilier) and local horse mackerel (herring or trevally scad).

In addition to traditional reef fish, quite unexpected creatures live in the Richelieu Rock area. For example, different types sea ​​devils and scorpions mimicking rocks and coral fragments. Other mimic fish are also present, such as the Ornate Ghost Pipefish, almost invisible against the background of soft coral branches.

Pisces undersea world Richelieu Rock is not limited. All sorts of funny mollusks and crustaceans are found in abundance in the area of ​​​​the rock: colorful harlequin shrimps, colorful sea snails and many other interesting creatures of various shapes and colors.

Forest and coastal national parks in the Khao Lak region

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), it makes sense to highlight.

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, this is Khao Sok National Park () - without a doubt, the most impressive forest 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) - 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, there are several more national parks in the Khao Lak area, which are not as impressive as Phang Nga and Khao Sok, but nevertheless interesting in their own way. If you have enough time and have a rental car on hand, driving around Khao Lak and looking at these national parks would be a very good idea.

More about the most visited national parks

Phang Nga Bay

Phang Nga Bay (Ao Phang-nga) is one of the main attractions of southern Thailand, the place is extremely unusual and very beautiful. Famous for its breathtaking views and rocky islands, indented with 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 the island of James Bond, which before the filming of the famous film had a modest local name Koh Tapu (literally - "Nail Island").....

Khao Sok National Park is home to one of Thailand's largest tropical rain forests. Several long and well-equipped hiking trails, 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 hills located along the banks of the rivers and streams of the national park. Hiking through such terrain requires some effort, but the reward for them will be 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 gave the name to the entire surrounding area, and the Lam Ru mountains located in the depths of the mainland. 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 wild beaches. The eastern side of the islands, unlike the western one, 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 boar and deer, giant tortoises and exotic birds such as the hornbill, among others.

Of the three islands, the most inhabited is south island, on the territory of which there are several large hotels. The remaining two islands are less developed, especially north island Ra, practically unaffected by the impact of civilization.

Koh Kho Khao is located 25 km north of Khao Lak National Park. From mainland the island is separated by a channel several hundred meters wide. You can get to the island by ferry departing from the Nam Khem pier, located in the village of the same name.

The coast of the island of Kho Khao, facing the Andaman Sea, is a long line of clean and deserted beaches with a length of more than 20 km. Visually the beaches Koh islands Kho Khao is reminiscent of the beaches of Khao Lak, and especially Khuk Khak Beach. tourism industry only the southern part of the beaches of the island, where all the hotels are located, has been mastered.....

Koh Phra Thong is an island located opposite the city of Kuraburi, about 60 km. north of Khao Lak. The island is separated from the mainland by a strait about 1 km wide.

Despite its relatively small size, the nature of Koh Phra Thong is quite diverse. There are mangroves and savanna, rainforest and swamps, shallow sandy beaches and coniferous forests growing along them. The presence of such a number of ecosystems determines the diversity of birds living on the island, of which, according to the latest data, there are 106 species. Among other birds, the hornbill lives on the island, notable for its size (up to 1 meter) and unusual appearance.

Updated 11/19/2019 Views 6394 Comments 11

Not so long ago I visited the Khao Lak resort, which for some reason is still not popular with our compatriots. I'm sure many still don't even know where Khao Lak is located on the map of Thailand, let alone visit it. In order to eliminate this injustice, I wrote this post, the town is good and great for a relaxing holiday.

About Khao Lak Resort

Short description

Khao Lak is a quiet and not crowded resort even during peak season. Since there is little entertainment in it, the contingent is mostly pensioners. Therefore, if you need night life and constant activity, then Khao Lak, most likely, will not suit you. There is only nature, waterfalls, the national park and that's it. But for those who are looking for relaxation or come with children, it seems to me that they should like it here.

First of all, throughout the resort gorgeous beaches, and most importantly, they are not crowded. You can find smaller places (where it is good with a small child), you can go deeper. And you can walk along the entire length of the beach, which is what many vacationers do, there are kilometers for walking. I already wrote mine, I will not repeat myself.

There are 7 beaches/districts in total, but it makes sense to stop at only 4: Bang Niang, Nang Thong, Khao Lak, Khuk Khak. Arranged in descending order of infrastructure, and in the latter it is not at all, only the one that will be in your hotel. But in Bang Niang there are 7/11, and full of cafes, and hotels for every taste, and in Nang Tong there is even a McDonald's :) Here's a selection for you.



Where is Khao Lak

Khao Lak is located on the mainland (not on an island) north of Phuket on the Adaman coast. And it’s easier to get to it from Phuket. That is, you can fly to Phuket airport and from there get to the resort. Moreover, to go to Khao Lak from Phuket airport is about the same as to the southernmost point of Phuket, because there are often traffic jams in Phuket.

Look at the very bottom of the post on the map to make it clearer.

How to get to Khao Lak

There are several ways to get there. The easiest and fastest way, if we talk about the flight from Russia. If you fly to Bangkok, then it will take much longer to get there.

By car

The easiest way to get there is by car. Type Khao Lak into the navigator (Google Maps or other program) and follow its instructions. If you are coming from Phuket, then immediately after leaving the bridge across the bay, you need to keep to the left along 402 and then continue along the Adaman coast along Highway 4. Continue along the main road without turning until you reach Khao Lak. The distance from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak (Bang Niang) is about 80 km, and the drive takes no more than 1 hour 30 minutes, or you can get there in 1 hour if you don’t stop anywhere and drive fast.

It takes much longer to get from Bangkok, as if you were driving. After you pass Chumphon, you will need to turn right onto Highway 4006, and follow it to the Adaman coast to Highway 4. Or drive both Chumphon and Surat Thani, and immediately after Surat Thani go right onto Highway 401, and drive along it past until Adaman coast and route 4.

You need to rent through brokers and, through them, it comes out 2 times cheaper than directly. This is such a hack. I have repeatedly booked through both, everything is excellent. All cars will be only from trusted international distributors, with insurance, contracts, no problems and divorces.

By taxi

Taxi is also easy to reach, but it costs more than the bus. You can take a taxi, both immediately at the airport, and just on the island, by contacting any street travel agency and ordering it. The price will be about 1800-2500 baht, depending on the car (minibus is more expensive) and the arrogance of taxi drivers. In this regard, it is best to book in travel agencies, they have more or less fixed prices, they will not be called from the ceiling. Well, and if from the airport, then all the prices hang on the counter. Probably, you can bargain and find someone who will take you cheaper, but I don’t know how realistic this is. I'd rather order in advance via the Internet, but more on that below.

Transfer online

Alternatively, order a transfer online through or. For the price, everything is the same as a regular taxi, but in general there is a minimum of body movements, you will be met with a sign and taken by the hand. And it's convenient that you can book in advance via the Internet, sitting at home. I recommend!

I have already traveled by transfer from this company and was completely satisfied with it. We were met with a sign, put in a car and taken to the hotel. Here .

By bus

From the Phuket airport, you need to take a minibus to the bus station (cost 100 baht), there you can already buy a bus ticket from Phuket to Khao Lak (cost 100 baht). You need buses to Surat Thani, Ranong, Chumphon, Takua Pa. Alternatively, take a tuk-tuk from the airport to the highway where buses run and catch them there (this is faster than to the bus station). But personally, I don’t like this method because from afar it’s completely incomprehensible which bus is traveling, you can not have time to slow it down. Yes, and when he is already passing by, the sign is not always clear, maybe in Thai.

In the opposite direction, to get from Khao Lak to Phuket, go to the highway and catch a bus towards Phuket. Everything is already much simpler here, because all the buses will just go there. If you need an airport, then tell the bus driver and he will stop near the turn, from where a tuk-tuk will take you to the airport.

Khao Lak on the map of Thailand

I deliberately placed here a map with beaches, and not just one point denoting the city, because all these beaches belong to Khao Lak. You can immediately guess geographical location and the approximate size of the resort. But! I remind you that it consists of several small villages and it is best to live in Bang Niang or Nang Thong. Moreover, the area called Khao Lak is not the most successful, but in principle the beach is good there, so you can stay there.

Map loading, please wait...

Life hack #1 - how to buy good insurance

Choosing insurance is now unrealistically difficult, so to help all travelers. To do this, I constantly monitor forums, study insurance contracts and use insurance myself.

From this article you will learn how to get to Khao Lak from Russia, from Phuket, Krabi, Bangkok, Koh Samui and other places in Thailand, as well as how to get out of it.

How to get to Khao Lak from Russia

How to get to Khao Lak from Phuket airport and back

1. The easiest way to get to Khao Lak from Phuket Airport is by taxi or transfer. A taxi from Phuket Airport to Khao Lak will cost 1500 - 2000 baht per car, depending on your bargaining skills and the location of the chosen hotel. Or you can pre-order a transfer from the hotel, using this link or on the Russian-language website kiwitaxi.ru

2. On a rented vehicle.

3. On the public transport. Take a bus for 100 baht from Phuket Airport to the Phuket bus station, and then buy a bus ticket to Khao Lak (100 baht per person, travel time about 2 hours). Or take a tuk-tuk from the airport to the highway (approximate coordinates: 8.111941, 98.335145) and catch a bus to Khao Lak there. We need buses to Surat Thani, Ranong, Chumphon, Takua Pa.

Khao Lak - Phuket

In the opposite direction, getting from Khao Lak to Phuket is also not difficult: you need to go to the highway and catch a bus in the direction of Phuket. If you need to get to Phuket airport from Khao Lak, then ask the driver to stop on the highway at the turn to the airport. Tuk-tukers are usually on duty there, which for 50-100 baht per person will be thrown to the entrance to the airport.

If you need to get to one of the beaches of Phuket, then get off at the bus station and look for a tuk-tuk (songteo) to the desired beach.

A taxi or transfer from Khao Lak, for example, to Patong Beach, will cost 1800 - 2200 baht. By public transport ~ 150 baht per person.

Buses run every 20-30 minutes during daylight hours (~ from 7:00 to 18:00).


This is what the buses passing by Khao Lak look like. This is the bus from Ranong to Phuket.

How to get to Khao Lak from Bangkok

By plane

The best way to get to Khao Lak from Bangkok is by plane. The flight time is just over an hour, if you buy tickets in advance, you can find tickets for 800 - 1200 baht per person. Then from Phuket airport get to Khao Lak using one of the methods described above. Buy flight tickets Bangkok – Phuket >>

In the opposite direction from Khao Lak to Bangkok, bus tickets can be bought at any tour office in Khao Lak or at the hotel. VIP bus at 17:30 and 18:00, regular buses at 12:00, 15:30 and 16:30. Stop on the track.

How to get to Khao Lak from Phi Phi

1. Buy an organized transfer Phi Phi - Khao Lak (boat + minivan). Departure at 9 am, arrival in Khao Lak at 14:00 - 15:00. The cost is 750 baht per person. Can be bought online.

2. Get from Phi Phi to Phuket on your own by ferry to the Rassada Pier. Departure from Phi Phi at 9:00, 11:00, 14:00, 15:30. Travel time is one and a half - two hours, the cost is 250-300 baht. From the pier, get to the nearest bus station in Phuket (it’s close, it’s literally 5-10 minutes away) for 80-100 baht per tuk-tuk, and then by bus to Khao Lak for 100 baht per person. Total way from Phi Phi to Khao Lak will cost 400-450 baht.

From Khao Lak to Phi Phi

After Khao Lak we went to Phi Phi. At first they wanted to buy an organized transfer from our hotel (minivan + boat) to Phi Phi for 790 baht, but then they found out that this journey would take too much time, as much as from 7:45 to 15:00, because. tourists are driven through Krabi, and not through Phuket, and decided to get on their own by public bus.

At 7:50 we left our hotel in Khao Lak (an excellent inexpensive hotel, I recommend it to everyone! Details about the hotel in Khao Lak), in a couple of minutes we reached the highway, where at 8 in the morning we boarded a passing bus to Phuket. We drove for quite a long time, more than two hours. I was already beginning to worry that we would miss the eleven-hour ferry from Phuket to Phi Phi. At 10:40 we arrived at the old Phuket bus station, very quickly jumped into a tuk-tuk (80 baht for two) and after 10 minutes we were at the Rassada pier. We managed to get on the ferry, but we had to buy tickets "expensively" - 600 baht per person 🙁 Moreover, if you buy tickets not at the pier, but in tour offices, they will cost 300-350 baht. But we didn’t have time to look for a tour agency at all ... The ferry left 20 minutes late, we were at Phi Phi at 13:20.

In total, the path of the Khao Lak Hotel - Phi Phi took 5.5 hours and cost 740 baht per person.

Ferry schedule Phuket - Phi Phi from Rassada Pier: 8:30, 11:00, 13:30, 15:00.

From Krabi (Ao Nang) to Khao Lak

Direct tourist minibus leaves from Ao Nang (Krabi province) to Khao Lak once a day, at 11:30. Travel time is 2-3 hours, ticket prices vary from 350 to 500 baht. Buy tickets online >>


From Aon Nang to Khao Lak one direct flight per day
Schedule and cost of buses from Krabi

As far as I know direct public bus in Khao Lak from the bus station in Krabi town no. You will have to travel with transfers. The way is long, the travel time is unpredictable, so it's easier to buy a ticket for a tourist minibus.

How to get to Khao Lak from Khao Sok

1. Buy tickets for a tourist minibus Khao Sok - Khao Lak for 200 baht per person, which will pick you up directly from your hotel in Khao Sok. Schedule Khao Sok - Khao Lak: 6:30, 8:30, 10:00, 12:00, 14:00, 16:00. We bought tickets the day before departure.750 baht

From Surat Thani to Khao Lak can be reached by bus to Phuket. Or with a transfer: by bus to Takua Pa, and then by bus towards Phuket.


Koh Samui - Khao Lak from Lompray
Koh Samui - Khao Lak by Pantip

That's all I wanted to tell you about how to get to Khao Lak. I would also like to note the moment that in Khao Lak itself (in any case, on Bang Niang beach) group transfers(tourist minibuses) are not very common. There are few tour offices selling transfers, prices are high, there are few flights, it’s not like in Phi Phi that a transfer to anywhere in Thailand (and not even Thailand 🙂) can be bought at every step, and because of the high price competition low. I got the impression that basically everyone leaves Khao Lak by taxi or a passing bus 🙂 Here is the schedule of transfers from Khao Lak:


Schedule of transfers from Khao Lak
Schedule of transfers from Khao Lak