Joanna James
Northern Thailand is famed for its natural beauty, and what better way to delve deep into the territory than to explore the surroundings by taking on some of the hidden trails!
Khao Lak has mountains of dense forests, waterfalls, and mangroves and is a protected land within the Lamru National Park. It is just the place for going on treks, forest hikes and spotting wildlife. The evergreen jungles are filled with rattans, epiphytes, huge ferns, orchids, mangroves
and jungle vines. Namtok Ton Chong or Fa Nature are two popular nature trails here; there are signposts to help you along the journey. Two waterfalls can be spotted along this path: Lam Ru and Chong Fah. These waterfalls are ideal for swimming on a hot day, so bring some extra clothes!
The park is around 65 km northward from Khao Lak and spreads over 240 kilometres. Found in Kuraburi and Takua Pa districts, it lies bordering the renowned Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani province. The park became protected land in 1988 and is a virgin forest, with many secret trails along natural habitats with all kinds of wildlife, such as the barking deer, mouse deer, bear, serow, gibbon, Malay tapir, macaque, wild pig, langur and numerous kinds of birds. Encounter rolling hills, creeks, waterfalls, and limestone outcrops in the eastern territories adjoining Khao Sok. Some of the best hotels in Khao Lak can be found near, and around this area. The likes of Avani+ Khao Lak Resort can be an option to base your stay in Khao Lak.
Another popular hike is to Tam Nang Waterfall within Si Phang-Nga National Park. The waterfall has cascades plunging at a length of 63 metres, while the surrounding region is shaded with gigantic trees. Ton Ton Toei Waterfall is before the checking point to the national park and is an exceptional waterfall that is 45 metres in height with a powerful drop. The trek is only a kilometre, with plenty of viewpoints along its route. Namtok Ton Ton Sai is another waterfall located another 500 metres away from Ton Ton Toei, and all can be explored in one day if you are up for the challenge.
Located in Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park was founded in 1986. Lam Pi is one of the two main areas, and its territory includes an expanse of mountains and rocks dating over 60 to 140 million years. The Lam Pi is abundant with dense forests and plants such as rattan, ferns and bamboo. The summit of the peak Yot Khao Khamin is poised at a magnificent 622 metres overlooking the wilderness.
Hat Thai Mueang is also located within the Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park. It houses civets, deer, jungle fowls and many other wild animals. Hat Thai Mueang has a 13-kilometre stretch of pristine sandy coastline opposite the street, which is perfect for swimming. November to February, the beach becomes a nesting site for sea turtles. Ton Prai is a giant waterfall located within the region and has a roof of shaded trees and is an ideal place for a picnic and a swim.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
