Family Adventure in Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

First Impressions of Khao Sok
After what felt like an eternity of planning and anticipation, we finally arrived in Khao Sok National Park HQ! The air is thick with humidity, a stark contrast to the crisp autumn air we left behind in Lyon. The symphony of the jungle is already enveloping us, a mix of chirps, buzzes, and the rustling of unseen creatures. I can already tell this is going to be an adventure unlike any other, and I'm so excited to share it all with you.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Khao Sok National Park HQ, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Thailand.

Our journey today began bright and early with a hearty breakfast at Our Jungle Restaurant & Bar. The setting was idyllic, a charming open-air space surrounded by lush greenery. I opted for a traditional Thai breakfast of Jok (rice porridge) while Jean-Pierre enjoyed some French toast, a little taste of home amidst the exotic landscape. Sophie, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by devouring a plate of fresh mango and sticky rice. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our first day of exploration. This restaurant seems to be a popular place for tourists to eat.

After breakfast, we headed to the Khao Sok National Park HQ. The park entrance fee was 200 Baht for adults and 100 Baht for Sophie. As we stepped into the park, the sheer density of the rainforest was immediately striking. Towering trees formed a dense canopy overhead, filtering the sunlight into dappled patterns on the forest floor. We decided to tackle one of the shorter trails near the visitor center, a gentle introduction to the park's wonders.

The trail was teeming with life. We spotted vibrant butterflies flitting among the flowers, and Sophie was thrilled to see a troop of monkeys swinging through the trees. I managed to capture a few decent photos, though the lighting in the rainforest is definitely a challenge for my photography skills. Jean-Pierre, ever the pragmatist, was more concerned with keeping us hydrated and applying insect repellent. He’s always so practical, my Jean-Pierre!

Our next stop was the Khao Sok Elephant Sanctuary, an experience I had been eagerly anticipating. I'm a firm believer in ethical tourism, and this sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating elephants, providing them with a safe and natural environment. We spent the afternoon observing these gentle giants, learning about their individual stories and the challenges they face. Sophie was absolutely mesmerized, and I have to admit, I was pretty choked up myself. It's such a privilege to witness these magnificent creatures up close.


Experience the magic of Khao Sok Elephant Sanctuary, where compassion for elephants meets the beauty of Thailand's wilderness in a sustainable environment.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones that touch your heart and remind you of the interconnectedness of all living things.

For lunch, we stopped at Bamboo Bistro khaosok, a charming little restaurant in the heart of the village. I had heard great things about their Thai dishes, and they did not disappoint. The restaurant has a terrace and indoor seating. I savored a flavorful green curry, while Jean-Pierre opted for a pizza – he can never resist a good pizza, no matter where we are in the world! Sophie happily munched on some spring rolls, declaring them the best she'd ever tasted. The owner speaks English, which is helpful.


Experience authentic Thai cuisine surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Khao Sok National Park at Bamboo Bistro.

After lunch, we did a little shopping at Yai-Pin local shop. I picked up a few souvenirs, including a hand-painted fan and some locally made soaps. It's always nice to support the local economy and bring home a little piece of the place we've visited. The shop offers authentic Thai crafts and local delicacies. I was hoping to find some sunscreen since I forgot to pack it, but no luck! I will need to find some tomorrow.


Explore Yai-Pin local shop in Khlong Sok for authentic Thai crafts and local delicacies, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Surat Thani.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Wind Song Bar & Restaurant for dinner. This place came highly recommended for its fusion cuisine and cocktails. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, with soft lighting and the sounds of the jungle providing a natural soundtrack. I ordered a delicious Pad Thai, while Jean-Pierre tried one of their signature fusion dishes, a Massaman curry with a French twist. Sophie, predictably, went for the chicken nuggets, but even she admitted that my Pad Thai smelled amazing. The restaurant also uses organic vegetables from their own garden.


Experience exquisite Thai cuisine at Wind Song Bar & Restaurant surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Khlong Sok.

The weather today was fairly typical for November in Khao Sok, with warm temperatures and high humidity. We had a few brief showers in the afternoon, but they were refreshing and didn't dampen our spirits. November is part of the rainy season, so rain is expected. The temperature ranged from 23°C to 31°C.

As I sit here now, writing this in our cozy bungalow, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude. Today was a truly magical day, filled with incredible sights, sounds, and experiences. We've only just scratched the surface of what Khao Sok has to offer, and I'm already eager to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we're planning a visit to Cheow Lan Lake, including a stop at Krai Sorn Viewpoint. We will have breakfast at Rafflesia Cafe, lunch at the floating restaurant, and dinner at The Heaven Bar & Restaurant. I am also hoping to stop by Jumanji Bar. I've heard it's even more breathtaking than the photos suggest, and I can't wait to explore its hidden coves and towering limestone cliffs. I'm also looking forward to seeing more of the local wildlife and immersing ourselves even further in the natural beauty of this incredible place. I think Sophie will especially enjoy the boat ride on the lake!

Oh, and I definitely need to remember to buy some sunscreen!

Good night from Khao Sok!

P.S. I forgot my portable phone charger! I will need to find one of those tomorrow as well.