This pristine seaside resort, just 80 kilometres north of Phuket, is Thailand’s crown jewel of natural beauty. Dotted with rubber and palm plantations, its green lushness, rolling hills and gorgeous beaches has made Khao Lak a popular holiday destination for adventure enthusiasts, beach lovers and scuba diving fans. It appeals to a wide range of budgets too with accommodations ranging from five-star luxury resorts to modest bungalows for rent near the beach. Though Khao Lak was one of the hardest hit regions by the 2004 tsunami, it has rebounded strongly with revitalized resorts and regenerated surrounding agriculture lands and tree plantings. The beauty of its three national parks serves as a draw to visitors.
Families, couples and groups alike have much to choose from in terms of how they spend their time in Khao Lak. Some leisurely beach time is a must, but you’ll also want to explore the area. Jungle treks are a wonderful way to experience the sights and sounds of the forest, while adventurous types can go white water rafting for the ultimate in excitement. The diving conditions around the nearby Similian Islands are considered among the world’s very best. Divers can tour coral gardens of explore the colourful anemones and sea life that live in the vicinity of small lava type rocks. The visibility is a remarkable 30 metres at its peak through the months of November to April.
The dining and nightlife scenes are enough to please even the pickiest traveller. In La On Village, just a kilometer in long, you’ll find the best restaurants in the Phang Nga province. Of course, Thai food is abundant, but there are also unique eateries like authentic Scandinavian cuisine. Beachside restaurants in Bang Niang are perfect for a romantic evening, complete with gentle lapping waves serving as background. Khao Lak is a vacation destination that warms the heart and nurtures the soul.
During reconstruction, improvements and added amenities for resorts and hotels make the accommodations better than ever.
Eco-tourists will love the seven-day Turtle Releasing Festival that happens annually in March. Turtles raised by the fisheries department start new lives and head into the sea.
Treks to the various waterfalls are adventures in themselves. Once you arrive, you can soaks in tranquil pools and scan the horizon for wildlife.