Joanna James
Voyages to Khao Lak offer fascinating and satisfying experiences where the wonders of Mother Nature will showcase itself in no uncertain manner. Here are 5 such trips worth scheduling.
Imagine drifting towards stunning rocky outcrops overhanging with lush greenery and then having to snake your way in between while being pampered to your heart's content in a boat. Well then, such dreamy scenes would surely stir your curiosity into beelining in the direction of Cheow Lan Lake and Coral Cave respectively. While tours last anything between 5 to 10 hours, the experience will be well worth the investment. Watch as your long-tail boat takes you on a cruise through Cheow Lan Lake before allowing your adventurous spirit to run riot, either via a jungle trek or a bamboo raft ride within one of the many hidden lagoons that are found here. Thereafter, look to the Coral Cave and its awe-inspiring formations and appeal that have lasted for the better part of 10,000 years!
Feel like you've stumbled upon the magnificent Amazon Rainforest when you set off in your canoe along the waters of Sang-Nea River. Nicknamed the "Little Amazon," and that too for exceptionally good reason, the nature-savvy as well as the thrill-seeker in you will find plenty to smile about when in this region. Glide past riverbanks and catch a glimpse of thick vegetation as they protrude precariously but be sure to keep your eyes peeled for monkeys, birds and even snakes that are known to frequent these areas. Take your time exploring the sights and sounds of Sri Phang Nga National Park before chartering a route that will have you cocooned by the beauty and peace of Tam Nang Waterfall. Once here, you can look forward to spending a few hours frolicking and unwinding in its refreshing pools where opportunities to savour tropical fruit will also be thrown in.
Should you be staying at one of the Khao Lak beach hotels the likes of Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, then you can make inquiries from the staff on how best to commence a local rafting expedition of the surrounding area. A pickup time no more than 9 am will place you in a prime position to explore a nearby river on a bamboo raft manned by an expert boatman. Watch as the rainforest closes in on you as you venture deeper into habitats where an array of species reside. Finish off this relaxing journey with a trip to a local sea turtle conservation center where you will learn of the efforts taken by the Royal Thai Navy to increase the number of sea turtles in Khao Lak.
The dual islets that make up the Phi Phi Islands are mesmeric spectacles of varying hues and thrills. For starters, spend a quiet moment or two at Phi Phi Leh's Maya Bay which is covered in enormous rock formations that seem to jut out from the sea. From here, take steps to climb up to the summit of Phi Phi Don from where remarkable scenes of the town below that merge beautifully with the pageantry around it can be enjoyed. In terms of advice, make sure that you go as early as possible to avoid large crowds and boats.
Part of the picture-perfect Similan Islands is Ba Ngu Island where you will have your first chance to don your snorkelling gear and dive down to a gleaming world of countless coral stretches and schools of fish; an adventure that is sure to whet your appetite for more. Next up is Payu Island (Island No.7) where you will be able to swim and snorkel while coming into contact with clownfish and many a species of sea turtle. Thus, when in Khao Lak be sure to plan your time and schedule carefully for there is plenty to do, see and learn.
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.
