Khao Sok Lake Day Trip: Honest Review & Emerald Pool Guide
Okay, so you’re thinking of checking out Khao Sok Lake and maybe the Emerald Pool? That’s super cool because it could just be one of the most amazing things you do in Thailand. I’m going to give you the lowdown on my experience, what I wished I’d known, and a few tips that will, I think, make your trip even better. I mean, after all, planning is kinda key, right?
What Makes Khao Sok Lake So Special?
Right, Khao Sok Lake, also called Cheow Lan Lake, it’s actually an artificial lake created by the Ratchaprapha Dam way back in the ’80s. It may sound very not exciting but believe me, it is. The flooded limestone karsts jutting out of the water are actually, honestly, a view you won’t forget very quickly. It kind of feels like you’ve been dropped right into the middle of a postcard or maybe a movie scene from something like Avatar, something kinda dreamy like that.
I remember sitting on the longtail boat, very with a cool breeze on my face, and feeling, just a little, totally small amid these giants. I guess that there is something really special, like humbling, about being surrounded by nature on this scale. You know, I saw wildlife like monkeys swinging through the trees along the shore, and I even, possibly, caught a glimpse of some exotic birds. So that added something kinda extra, a unique touch to the trip.
The thing is, a Khao Sok Lake day trip can pack a ton of variety into a single day. You can go kayaking through hidden lagoons, stop for a swim in spots with water a dazzling greenish blue, and hike through the rainforest. Speaking of the forest, so I would recommend it since you might see Rafflesia which might actually be the world’s biggest flower, or whatever other pretty flowers that are. All of it is part of the experience. I think, anyway, or at least from my point of view!
My Day Trip Itinerary: What to Expect
So I kicked things off super early. It tends to be about a 7:00 AM pickup from my hotel in Khao Sok. Actually, that early start felt rough, and I’m very much not a morning person. I would say trust me, it’s worth it. Anyway the drive to the lake is kinda scenic, so in that way, it’s kind of interesting and takes maybe an hour or so through the countryside.
Okay, very next up, it would be hopping on a longtail boat. This bit, might be one of the best bits as well since you have the sun in your face and a light wind rushing against your skin. It’s like the iconic Thai travel experience that you dreamed about. So anyway, these boats, they skim across the water pretty quickly, offering views that are really breathtaking views. You’ll cruise past the towering karsts that I mentioned earlier, and honestly get a peek at the floating bungalows—more on those later, by the way. Very much consider the bungalows.
In my tour, first up, was kayaking, it actually wasn’t so bad. Okay, so paddling through these quiet inlets, where the water gets, a bit, almost glassy, and that’s very, it tends to be the spot, I mean in my opinion anyway, that you really feel at one with the place. That, or you’re just really aware that you should have worked on your kayaking skill, which applies more to me personally. Anyway, some tours take you to particular spots that are great for swimming. So obviously, I went swimming.
So then after lunch, many tours included a visit to the Emerald Pool, though mine very nearly did not. Be certain to read your brochure, anyway the Emerald Pool actually, so its located a little drive and walk away from the lake and it can be a wonderful contrast, depending on the kind of thing you’re seeking. Obviously, you’re traveling with children? Then do not. Anyway, so here I’d recommend taking an Emerald Pool trip with another party. I actually had a lot of fun that day with an Italian family!
Before I ended the day trip it was all hopping back in the longtail and soaking in the views as the sun starts dipping very closer to the horizon. Honestly? Pure magic.
The Emerald Pool: Worth the Extra Stop?
The Emerald Pool. Right, so the Emerald Pool in Khao Sok is definitely worth your time. I mean I know I kinda just bagged it earlier in my review but honestly, on reflection, what was I thinking, it’s amazing? I think this is, possibly, due to some good company!
A little so secret about it, its located inside the park it does have some, just a little, extra entrance fees you might need to sort, anyway so it really stands apart by offering something just a bit different from the lake’s wide open spaces. That’s why the Italian family loved it! The place is kinda hidden, encircled by lush jungle greenery, giving it a super secluded vibe. I found out later from locals that is sometimes also known as Sa Morakot which might be useful. That is, it would have been useful when I was there so now I’m going to let you know.
Swimming in the pool, it tends to be very like stepping into an honestly just unbelievably great painting. Its name very does it justice; the water is clear, greenish, and just kinda welcoming. Be very aware it does sometimes tend to get busy but early morning or kinda late afternoon visits could just help you dodge those big crowds, according to our guides. I saw lots of those small fish that give pedicures so consider that to or perhaps dont and freak out.
It’s very much more than a swim, actually; it’s like a mini-adventure, getting here, anyway you tend to be walking along small forest trails, and if you are very lucky, might spot some birds. So it’s definitely more varied to just swimming.
Choosing the Right Tour Operator
Okay, so tour operators, that, is very essential for, kind of, any kind of Khao Sok experience to be honest. I guess it’s a matter of research and reading the small print which sounds boring. But it’s key!
So consider tour operators with solid reviews for being kinda responsible but I am sure you will be okay anyway! Also check for those offering eco-friendly tours, you know the kind that respect the lake and its surrounding nature. Honestly, I noticed how little trash I saw in general and very give kudos to the lake keepers. Anyway I reckon some tours provide kinda a lunch, just make certain it’s one that covers every dietary needs. No one really likes being very stuck with a sandwich, you know?
Anyway small group tours can give you, possibly, more of a custom vibe. So in that case you probably won’t want to be traveling with an Italian family unless, of course, your aim is good company. Just get that kayak booked!
Actually, you might wanna shop around for tours that visit other spots based on your likes. Maybe some waterfalls nearby, or perhaps cave explorations? Actually it could be amazing!
Floating Bungalows: An Overnight Adventure?
Those bungalows floating on the lake actually got my attention right away so next time, I really reckon, I am considering doing an overnight. Actually, I think waking up right on the water will likely feel pretty different than just a basic hotel room, although there are plenty of fantastic hotel rooms in Khao Sok, admittedly!
Overnight trips are good as a possibility for visiting the lake when its at its quietest early mornings and late afternoons. Just like how those that know the emerald pool have to consider what time to show up!
From your floating base, getting everywhere is pretty easy. Maybe even think about visiting different, more remote spots that day trippers usually really do not see. Then very much consider those unique angles if you’re very keen on photographing, and so many really unique angles could possibly present, maybe, in very soft early morning or sunset sunlight, to be honest.
I mean it’s essential to know that basic is key in this experience so think basic amenities, rustic charm. I would say very possibly prep yourself for all of it being just a bit rugged but that could actually tend to be its genuine appeal.
What to Pack for Your Khao Sok Adventure
Right, so a bit about the gear for visiting Khao Sok? Actually that bit, to be honest, kinda makes or breaks any trip! I’d probably also consult YouTube but here is my take.
- Light, quick-dry clothing: I suggest, in that case, materials that could tend to breathe in the humidity of Khao Sok’s climate. Just to cover it: Bring a swimsuit. Or three!
- Sturdy footwear: Water shoes could possibly come in handy a lot. So maybe be considering some boots for a bit hiking but it is all down to preference here.
- Sun protection: Hats, Sunglasses, SPF, the gang of things that will protect you!
- Insect repellent: That probably actually makes a difference particularly at night so keep an eye out!
- Dry bag: Keep devices from that random splash of wave!
Responsible Travel: Leave No Trace
Khao Sok might actually be pretty pristine. Also being an amazing guest that I always try to be makes it just a bit more amazing, potentially? You do you of course.
Maybe make sure not to leave your trash behind to keep the vibe intact? When you’re buying something from those local villagers around be so certain to always be supporting responsibly minded villagers. Refillable stuff just possibly stops random plastics becoming part of your persona. Be careful not to get sunscreen on any fishes’ homes!
So, really considering it from an ethical stance helps every spot you might choose to go, and this particular place, it deserves so very much that bit more mindful tourism really, I think. Just my two cents, that you could totally ignore!