Family Adventure in Khao Sok National Park

A Day of Discovery in Khao Sok

Today was all about soaking in the panoramic beauty of Khao Sok and indulging in the local flavors that make this region so special. It's amazing how each day here reveals a new layer of the park’s charm, making our family trip truly unforgettable.

Our day began, as it often does on vacation, with a hearty breakfast. We headed to Jasmine Garden Thai Restaurant and Cooking School. The aroma of spices and fresh herbs filled the air, instantly awakening our senses. I opted for the classic Thai breakfast: Jok (rice porridge) with a perfectly cooked egg, while Greta enjoyed the Pad See Ew. Lila, ever adventurous, tried a bit of everything, declaring the mango sticky rice her favorite – a verdict I wholeheartedly agreed with.

After breakfast, fueled by good food and excitement, we set off to conquer the Khao Sok Viewpoint. The trek up was invigorating, the air thick with the scent of damp earth and tropical flora. Lila, surprisingly, led the charge, her little legs pumping with boundless energy. Greta and I followed, taking our time, partly to catch our breath and partly to fully absorb the breathtaking scenery. The rainforest canopy stretched out before us, an endless sea of green, punctuated by the jagged limestone cliffs that define Khao Sok’s landscape.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that require a little effort, a bit of sweat, and a whole lot of appreciation for the natural world.

Reaching the summit of Khao Sok Viewpoint was a moment of pure awe. The panoramic vista was even more spectacular than the pictures I had seen online. The Cheow Lan Lake shimmered in the distance, its turquoise waters contrasting sharply with the verdant jungle. I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment, not just for reaching the top, but for sharing this incredible moment with my family. It’s moments like these that make all the planning and effort worthwhile. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the grandeur of the scene, but no image could truly do it justice. You simply have to be there to experience it.


Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Khao Sok Viewpoint, a must-visit scenic spot in Thailand's lush national park.

After descending from the viewpoint, our stomachs started to rumble, signaling it was time for lunch. We decided to try the Low-budget Youth Restaurant, a small, unassuming eatery recommended by a local we met at the viewpoint. It was exactly the kind of place I love discovering on my travels – simple, authentic, and bursting with flavor. The menu was handwritten, mostly in Thai, but thankfully, the owner spoke enough English to guide us through the options. We ordered a variety of dishes to share: Green Curry, Pad Thai, and Tom Yum soup. Each dish was a culinary masterpiece, the flavors bold and vibrant, a testament to the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the cook. Lila, surprisingly, loved the Tom Yum soup, even with its spicy kick.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured to Bang Hua Rat. This area offered a different perspective of Khao Sok, a more intimate glimpse into the local life. We strolled through the village, observing the daily routines of the residents. Children played in the streets, their laughter echoing through the air. Local vendors sold fresh produce and handmade crafts. It was a scene of simple, unhurried life, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of Berlin. I bought a few souvenirs, small tokens to remind us of our time here, and Greta found a beautiful handwoven scarf.


Explore the lush hiking trails of Bang Hua Rat in Surat Thani, Thailand, where nature meets adventure in stunning landscapes.

As the afternoon wore on, we made a stop at Groceries & shake, a small shop where we stocked up on snacks and, of course, indulged in some refreshing fruit shakes. Lila opted for a mango shake (her new favorite), while Greta and I tried the local specialty: a durian shake. It was… an experience. The flavor was intense, pungent, and definitely not for the faint of heart. While Greta wasn't a fan, I found it strangely addictive. It’s these kinds of quirky culinary adventures that make traveling so much fun.


Discover local flavors at Groceries & Shake in Khlong Sok – your ultimate stop for fresh produce and refreshing shakes in Surat Thani.

For dinner, we decided to try Chao Italian Ristorante Pizzeria and Thaifood. I know, Italian in Thailand sounds a bit odd, but we had heard good things about it, and we were all craving something different. The restaurant was a pleasant surprise, the ambiance cozy and inviting. I ordered a pizza for Lila, while Greta opted for a Thai green curry, and I decided to try their Pad See Ew. The food was delicious, a perfect blend of Italian and Thai flavors. It was a satisfying end to a day filled with exploration and culinary delights.


Experience exquisite Italian and Thai cuisine at Chao Italian Ristorante Pizzeria and Thaifood in Khao Sok – where flavors come alive.

As we walked back to our treehouse, under a canopy of stars, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. Khao Sok had exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Sharing these experiences with my family made it even more special. Even the forgotten portable phone charger and binoculars didn’t dampen our spirits.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Khao Na Nai Luang Dharma Park and Wing Hin Waterfall. I'm particularly excited about the Dharma Park with its serene atmosphere and stunning golden Buddha statue perched atop a mountain. Hopefully, we'll get some amazing photos and create even more lasting memories. And who knows, maybe we'll even find another quirky culinary adventure along the way. Until then, goodnight from Khao Sok!