Lush jungle, colorful underwater worlds and some of Thailand’s dream beaches with palm trees and light yellow sand – that’s Khao Lak! Although the region has gained popularity in recent years, it is still an insider tip among Thailand lovers. What makes Khao Lak such a special destination? We’ll tell you!
The dream beach Khao Lak
The 25-kilometre-long Khao Lak beach is located about 100 kilometres north of Phuket in southern Thailand. Thailand is still one of the most popular holiday regions of all. The incredibly beautiful nature and friendly mentality are just two of the many reasons why many holidaymakers from all over the world come back to Thailand year after year.
For many of these holidaymakers, Khao Lak is one of the most beautiful places in Thailand. Khao Lak is a real feast for the eyes: The lush green of the jungle combined with seemingly endless light yellow sandy beaches and turquoise-blue water seem like something out of an exotic film production. Holiday dreams come true here!
This breathtaking environment is wonderful for slowing down. Especially vacationers who are looking for relaxation and inner peace come to Khao Lak.
Diving paradise Khao Lak
A common feature of the holidaymakers you meet on the beaches? The passion for diving! The off-shore diving areas near Khao Lak are among the most popular diving spots in Thailand.
Thousands of fish swim through colorful coral reefs here. The water is warm enough to spend many hours in the sea. If you take a boat a little further out to the open sea, you will find great dive sites : Between steep walls and caves, there is a good chance of encountering huge fish species such as manta rays or reef sharks. There are numerous diving schools that offer day trips to the Khao Lak area. Meals and transport are often included in the price offered. Khao Lak is also an ideal location for beginners who want to get their diving license.
Top attractions in the Khao Lak area
There is plenty to see and do in the Khao Lak region: in addition to the stunning nature, there are numerous markets, attractions and beach sections that are definitely worth a visit.
Khao Lak Beach Hopping
The Khao Lak region is known for its dream beaches. Visitors should therefore definitely plan a day for beach hopping along the 25-kilometre-long dream coast. A good place to start is Khao Lak Beach. From here, continue to the beaches of the popular resorts of Nang Thong and Bang Nian.
The longest beach in the region is Khuk Khak Beach. The beautiful white sandy beaches with coconut palms include the beaches Coconut Beach and White Sand Beach. The easiest way to get from beach to beach is with a rented scooter. If you want to enjoy a cocktail or two at the beach bars, you can also use the public shared taxis.
Temples and Buddha statues
Thailand is known for its incredible temple complexes and also in the Khao Lak region you will find many larger and smaller temples, of which you should visit at least one during your trip. One of the most beautiful temples is the Khuk Khak. In the green area you can marvel at the golden splendor of the temple and maybe even meet one of the monks of the temple. In addition to the temples, Thailand is known for its giant Buddha statues. One of these incredible golden statues is the Big Buddha of Bang Sai, which is located in the Wat Samnak Song Dok Daeng temple complex.
Tsunami history
The tsunami of 2004 shook Thailand deeply and along the coast you will find many monuments and museums that commemorate the disaster of that time. One of the most impressive monuments is the Tsunami Boat 813. The police boat had washed up in 2004 in the town of Bang Nian by the tsunami. In addition to the boat, you can also visit a small exhibition with pictures and explanations of the tsunami of 2004. Another monument is the Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial in the town of the same name. It is located directly on the coast and from there you have a great view over the island of Koh Kho Khao. Since the region was hit very hard by the tsunami, there are numerous other monuments here today that commemorate the terrible tidal wave of 2004.
Markets and night markets
If you come to Thailand, you should visit one of the colorful markets at least once. In the Khao Lak region, there are several of these fascinating clusters of stalls selling goods of all kinds. The Bang Niang Night Market is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. In the late afternoon you can start your shopping tour here and let yourself be carried away by the colorful hustle and bustle.
In addition to typical Thai food (be sure to try the Pad Thai here), you will also find clothes and many souvenirs. At the Build Market, which is only about five minutes away from the night market, you can stroll through shops in old shipping containers and sometimes listen to live music while having a drink.
Natural spectacle waterfalls
If you need a change from swimming in the sea, you should visit one of the region’s incredibly beautiful waterfalls. Recommended are the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall, which is divided into seven levels, or the Sai Rung Waterfall, which shines in rainbow colors.
Extra tip: Are you a bit tired and tense after all the adventures? Nowhere else in the world can you get such cheap, high-quality Thai massages as in Thailand!
Facts about Khao Lak
- Khao Lak is located on the west coast of Thailand in the province of Phang Nga, about 80 kilometers north of Phuket.
- The name “Khao Lak” means “Lak Mountain” and refers to the highest hill in the region.
- Khao Lak was hit by a tsunami in 2004 that had a devastating effect. Many hotels and buildings were destroyed and several thousand people lost their lives.
- Today, Khao Lak is a popular tourist destination and has recovered from the tsunami disaster.
- Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, which covers an area of 125 square kilometers, is a popular destination for tourists. Here you can discover wild animals, waterfalls and tropical vegetation.
- Bang Niang Night Market is a well-known night market in Khao Lak that offers many local specialties and souvenirs.
- The Khao Lak area is also very popular with divers as it offers some of the best dive sites in Thailand. Here you can observe sharks, rays and turtles, among others.
- Khao Lak has a tropical climate with high temperatures and high humidity all year round. The best time to visit is from November to April, when it is a bit cooler and drier.
- Khao Lak is a place that is ideal for a relaxing holiday on the beach. There are many resorts and hotels that are located right on the beach and offer spectacular views of the sea.
- Khao Lak is also a starting point for trips to the nearby Similan and Surin Islands, which are among the most beautiful islands in Thailand. Here you can discover beautiful beaches and a breathtaking underwater world.
The most beautiful beaches in Khao Lak
- Bang Niang Beach: This beach is known for its tranquility and beauty. It is lined with coconut trees and offers crystal clear waters and fine sand.
- Nang Thong Beach: This long beach is very popular with tourists and locals. It offers many restaurants, bars and shops along the promenade.
- Pakweep Beach: This beach is ideal for families as it slopes gently and has shallow waters. It also offers many water sports such as snorkeling and diving.
- Khuk Khak Beach: This tranquil beach is ideal for relaxation and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It also has a wide range of beach bars and restaurants.
- White Sand Beach: As the name suggests, this beach has white sand and crystal clear waters. It’s a bit out of the way, but it’s worth finding your way there.
- Coconut Beach: This beach is a hidden gem and few tourists know about it. It is quiet and peaceful and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
