Considered by many to be one of Thailand’s most beautiful wildlife reserves, the Khao Sok National Park covers jungle forests, limestone karsts, rivers and lakes in the Surat Thani province of southern Thailand. The reserve is home to wildlife such as Asian elephants, barking deer, wild boar, bears, Malayan tapirs and various monkeys breeds like gibbons, pig-tailed macaques and langurs. Exotic flora also grows here as well including the raffelsia flowers, which bloom in late January and early February.

There are several trails in the Khao Sok National Park from which visitors can choose to enjoy trekking through the jungle to spot wildlife, photograph beautiful waterfalls, swim in natural pools and admire stunning vistas from viewpoints. What’s more there are temples and elephant camps in and around the area that are worth visiting. Other activities available include ziplining, cave exploring and kayaking and tubing on the Sok River.

Souvenir shops and convenience stores selling fresh fruit and juices are located at Khao Sok’s entrance, while the main road through the park is lined with a variety of guesthouses, restaurants and bars.

Buses, taxis and motorbikes hired through tour operations or area hotels can transport visitors to Khao Sok National Park, but motored vehicles are not allowed on the park’s trails.