Thailand
Edenic city in the province of Phang Nga, Khao Lak, is wonderfully shaped by Mother Nature. It is cherished for its tranquil beaches, idyllic landscapes, and exotic stretches worthy of a postcard.
Life there is good. The lifestyle is peaceful and relaxing. The sea air and generous sunshine provide multiple benefits, both physically and mentally. Bordering the Andaman Sea, the town is 80 km from Phuket and 750 km from the city of angels.
The Chronicles of Khao Lak
Khao Lak traces its origins from the association of neighboring hamlets. Even though they come from different villages, the inhabitants have lived in peace for decades. They share everything: beliefs, cultures, and ways of life. The townsfolk worship Chao Por, a protective deity of the city.
Ancient trading zone
Once, the city was a bustling commercial zone. The archaeological sites that testify to these mercantile activities date back 1400 years. The city is also popular for its tin and lead deposits. Entrepreneurs and miners from all corners of the globe come to Khao Lak to extract these precious minerals from the soil. This rush came to a halt after the depletion of the mines, giving way to agriculture and rubber tree exploitation.
Noteworthy events of 1991
Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park was established on August 30, 1991, to protect the exceptional biodiversity of the region. The city takes its name from a mountain of the same name sheltered in this nature reserve. The establishment of this protected area is an economic lever for the city. Since this event, the city's tourist potential has begun to be recognized throughout Thailand.
The 2004 Tsunami
Caught off guard, Khao Lak was completely devastated by a massive tsunami on December 26, 2004. Over 4000 deaths are mourned in the coastal city, including the grandson of the King of Siam. A memorial has been erected in the city in memory of the victims of this tragic event. For cinephiles, the film "The Impossible" references this devastating natural disaster.
Today, a booming beach resort
Khao Lak emerged stronger from the events of 2004. Prevention and alert measures against tsunamis are optimized. Like the phoenix, the city rises from its ashes. It has healed its wounds and undergone rejuvenation with new construction. Even more beautiful, the city is quickly besieged by luxury accommodation magnates and high-end entertainment. Notable establishments include Seaview Resort Khao Lak, Bangsak Village Khao Lak, Monkey Dive Hostel, The Sarojin, and Eden Beach Khao Lak Resort & Spa. The hotel sector has rapidly developed. Mass tourism has quickly regained momentum. The city hosts a vegetarian festival every year.
Travelers come to Khao Lak to make a stopover before exploring the surroundings. This coastal city is a historic gateway to reach the Similan and Surin Islands. Boats from Tham Lapu and Ban Nam Kem provide shuttle services between these localities.
The city's reputation continues to grow. Tourist habits are starting to change. Many visitors come to stay in the city, attracted by its natural surroundings and the pleasures of the sea. On the agenda: relaxation, swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, excursions, group fun, scuba diving, water sports…
Nearby the city
Khao Lak is the perfect base to explore the wonders of southern Thailand. Among the most popular places are:
- The little Amazon of Takua Pa;
- Khao Sok National Park and its lake;
- South Beach, White Sand Beach, Khu Khak Beach, Pak Weep Beach, and Bang Niang Beach;
- Wat Suwan Khuha and the gigantic reclining Buddha image;
- Ton Chong Fa Waterfall;
- Thanbok Khorani National Park;
- James Bond Island, the famous island.
When to visit Khao Lak?
The precipitation between September and November is low, making it possible to explore the city. However, we recommend visiting Khao Lak between November and May, during the dry season. The air is refreshing, neither too hot nor too cold. The sun allows you to enjoy its rays all the time.
How to reach the city?
You have several options for coming to Khao Lak.
75 kilometers of road separate the city from the international gateway of Phuket. From this location, take the bus to Takua Pa, Ranong, or Surat Thani. These journeys all pass through Khao Lak. The trip to the city takes an average of 2 hours.
From Bangkok, take a bus at Saï Taï Mai station to reach Surat Thani. Minivans heading to Khao Lak are waiting for you there.
You can also come by train. Reaching Surat Thani railway station by rail is the best option for train lovers. It takes 3 hours to reach Khao Lak from this station.
Means of transportation in the city
You have a range of options to visit the city and all its corners: bicycle, motorbike, or car. You can rent vehicles in the city. Traveling by taxi is also recommended. Walking is advisable for short hikes within a limited radius.
