Family Adventure in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Day 11: Elevated Views and Jungle Delights: A Day of Discovery in Khao Sok

Discover Khao Sok's beauty: panoramic views from Krai Sorn, jungle exploration, and delicious Thai cuisine. A perfect family adventure!

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A Day Above the Trees



Today was a day of breathtaking views and immersive jungle experiences here in Khao Sok National Park. It’s hard to believe this amazing family adventure is coming to a close. I wanted to soak up every last bit of natural beauty this park has to offer, and today certainly delivered.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Rafflesia Cafe. It’s a charming little spot that caters to vegetarians and vegans like me, which is always a plus. I had a delicious smoothie with a big, beautiful flower, a perfect way to start the day. Jean-Pierre opted for a traditional Thai breakfast, while Sophie enjoyed some pancakes. Fully energized, we set off for our first adventure: Krai Sorn Viewpoint.

Discover the stunning Krai Sorn Viewpoint, where breathtaking vistas of Khao Sok Lake await in a tranquil park setting, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Discover the stunning Krai Sorn Viewpoint, where breathtaking vistas of Khao Sok Lake await in a tranquil park setting, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
The drive to Krai Sorn Viewpoint was scenic, winding through the lush landscapes of Khao Sok. As we approached, the anticipation grew. The viewpoint is known for offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in Southern Thailand, and I was eager to see it for myself.

The walk to the viewpoint was manageable, though a bit brisk. The path was well-maintained, making it accessible for all ages, including Sophie. As we ascended, the sounds of the jungle surrounded us – the calls of exotic birds, the rustling of leaves, and the distant chatter of monkeys. Sophie was in her element, pointing out every interesting insect and plant along the way. I made sure to remember to apply insect repellent that I had thankfully packed!

Reaching the top of Krai Sorn Viewpoint was like stepping into a postcard. The panoramic vista of Cheow Lan Lake spread out before us, showcasing dramatic limestone cliffs and verdant jungle stretching as far as the eye could see. The emerald waters of the lake glistened in the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing scene. I tried to capture the beauty with my camera, but no photo could truly do it justice. It was one of those moments where you just have to stop and take it all in.

The panoramic vista of Cheow Lan Lake spread out before us, showcasing dramatic limestone cliffs and verdant jungle stretching as far as the eye could see.


After soaking in the views, we made our way to the Klong Pae ranger station, nestled within Khao Sok National Park. This ranger station serves as a hub for various outdoor activities and a starting point for treks into the lush forest. The area surrounding the station is teeming with biodiversity, and we hoped to spot some of the local wildlife.

Discover the natural wonders of Klong Pae Ranger Station in Kao Sok National Park, a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Discover the natural wonders of Klong Pae Ranger Station in Kao Sok National Park, a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
We embarked on a short trek near the ranger station, guided by one of the park’s knowledgeable rangers. He pointed out unique flora and fauna, sharing fascinating insights about the ecosystem. We learned about the different species of trees, the medicinal properties of various plants, and the behaviors of the animals that call this park home.

“Look, Papa, a monkey!” Sophie exclaimed, pointing to a troop of monkeys swinging through the trees. We watched in amazement as they gracefully leaped from branch to branch, their playful antics bringing smiles to our faces. The ranger explained that these were dusky langurs, a common sight in Khao Sok.

As we continued our trek, the ranger shared stories about the elusive Malayan sun bear and the various species of hornbills that inhabit the park. Although we didn’t spot any of these creatures, just knowing they were out there added an element of excitement to our adventure. I was grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the conservation efforts in the area and the importance of protecting this natural wonderland.

After our jungle exploration, we were ready for a delicious lunch. We headed to Our Jungle House, a charming nature resort known for its treehouses and eco-friendly practices. The restaurant at Our Jungle House offered a delightful menu of Thai and international dishes, with plenty of vegetarian options for me. Jean-Pierre enjoyed a spicy green curry, while Sophie devoured a plate of chicken satay. The food was fresh and flavorful, and the ambiance was serene, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.

Experience the tranquility of nature at Our Jungle House, your gateway to adventure in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand.
Experience the tranquility of nature at Our Jungle House, your gateway to adventure in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand.
After lunch, we took some time to explore the grounds of Our Jungle House. The resort is nestled on 25 acres of privately owned primary rainforest, offering a peaceful and immersive experience. We strolled along the Sok River, skipping stones and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. Sophie loved the little paths through the rainforest. We even spotted a snake swimming in the river, owls, frogs and monkeys!

Before dinner, I couldn't resist a bit of shopping at Our Jungle Camp - Eco Resort. It was a great opportunity to support local artisans and find some unique souvenirs. I picked up a few handmade crafts and some organic skincare products. Sophie chose a small, wooden elephant as a memento of our trip.

Discover the beauty of Khlong Sok National Park at Our Jungle Camp - Eco Resort, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in nature's embrace.
Discover the beauty of Khlong Sok National Park at Our Jungle Camp - Eco Resort, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in nature's embrace.
As evening approached, we made our way to The Heaven Bar & Restaurant for dinner. This restaurant is known for its vibrant ambiance and diverse menu, offering a mix of authentic Thai cuisine and international dishes. The decor reflected the local culture, with traditional and contemporary elements creating a cozy and lively setting.

Discover exquisite dining at The Heaven Bar & Restaurant in Khlong Sok - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a breathtaking setting.
Discover exquisite dining at The Heaven Bar & Restaurant in Khlong Sok - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a breathtaking setting.
We started with some refreshing cocktails. I opted for a signature cocktail with local fruits, while Jean-Pierre enjoyed a classic Mai Tai. For dinner, I chose a vegetarian Pad Thai, while Jean-Pierre savored some freshly caught seafood. Sophie, as always, went for the chicken nuggets. The food was delicious, and the service was attentive.

As we dined, we were treated to stunning views of the lush landscape. The Heaven Bar & Restaurant is perfectly situated to capture the beauty of the sunset, and we watched in awe as the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. It was the perfect way to end our day of adventure and discovery. I made sure to make a reservation, as I had read it could get busy during tourist season!

Tomorrow is our last day in Khao Sok, and we plan to visit Khao Sok Nature Place, and hopefully have a drink at Memories Beach Bar before heading back to Lyon. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m so grateful for the memories we’ve made as a family.

“Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.”

As I reflect on our time here, I realize how much we’ve grown as a family. We’ve learned to appreciate the beauty of nature, to embrace new experiences, and to cherish the moments we have together. Khao Sok National Park has given us the gift of adventure, and I know we’ll carry these memories with us for a lifetime.

The weather in Khao Sok in November is quite warm, with daytime temperatures around 29°C, and it can be humid. There's a chance of rain on about 18 days of the month. So it's a good idea to pack accordingly.

I'm already anticipating our next family adventure!
Go to day 10 Lake Serenity and Temple Heights: A Day of Wonders in Khao Sok
Go to day 12 Farewell Khao Sok: Reflecting on Our Family's Thai Adventure
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Family Adventure in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Experience the adventure and natural beauty of Khao Sok National Park with family, exploring hidden gems and local culture in Thailand.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Emily Smith
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Freelance Translator
  • Country icon Country: France
  • Age icon Age: 38

Bonjour, fellow wanderers! I'm Emily, a New Yorker living in the beautiful city of Lyon, France. As a freelance translator, I have the flexibility to indulge my passion for travel and explore the world with my wonderful husband, Jean-Pierre, and our daughter, Sophie. Join me as I share our family's adventures, hidden gems, and practical tips for creating authentic and affordable travel experiences. From exploring the French countryside to discovering far-flung corners of the globe, I'm here to inspire you to pack your bags and embrace the journey!

Interests:
  • Photography
  • Hiking
  • Trying new cuisines
  • Learning about different cultures
  • Sustainable living
More about Emily Smith

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  • Our Jungle House

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  • The Heaven Bar & Restaurant

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  • Our Jungle Camp - Eco Resort

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