Thailand has long enjoyed the well-deserved love of tourists from many countries. Khao Lak Resort is one of those places where you can have a wonderful holiday with the whole family. It's about him we'll talk in our article.

A little about the resort...

According to reviews, Khao Lak is a rather secluded resort in Phang Nga province. It is located on the shore of the Adaman coast. Marvelous a nice place attracts vacationers with endless white beaches, waterfalls, bays, clean sea ​​water and mango jungle. The resort offers numerous treatments at yoga centers and spas. Despite the distance from entertainment centers, the city can offer active leisure.

How to get to Khao Lak?

Khao Lak is often also called Khao Lak. It is located in the south of Thailand, 60 kilometers from the island of Phuket, and also 750 kilometers from Bangkok. The most convenient way to get to the resort is to take one of the flights that arrive at Aeroflot, which offers direct flights from Moscow. The flight takes about nine hours. Then in about an hour you can reach the city of Khao Lak. Because he's in everyone's way bus routes, then there are no problems with transport.

City `s history

The history of the resort is not as old as other regions of Thailand. It dates back only to the nineteenth century. In those days, aluminum deposits were discovered on local lands, after which people flocked here, and it was founded small town. Gradually it grew more and more and took an important place in trade. In addition, Khao Lak (Thailand) is located just on the route between Phuket and Bangkok. However, the city's history has its dark spots. Not everything was always good in these lands. At a certain stage, the town was mired in internecine wars over rich deposits. The story could have had a sad ending if the warring parties had failed to reach an agreement and conclude a truce. In honor of this event, the Wat Chalong temple was erected in Phuket. Over time, mining became not so profitable, and local wealthy people took up trading.

In the twentieth century, the first paved roads appeared in the resort. Then local residents the idea came about the need to connect Phuket with the mainland. In the seventies, the Sarasin Bridge was built across the strait, which still exists today.

The first tourists began to visit Khao Lak (Thailand) in the eighties, which was associated with the discovery national park. To urban tourists, the resort seemed like a real tropical paradise. Gradually the city began to grow, numerous hotels and resort infrastructure were built. And in 2004, a tsunami hit the region, sweeping away everything in its path. Among the victims were many indigenous people and tourists. But the city was quickly restored and soon again became a paradise for guests of the country.

Resort climate

The city is located in a tropical climate zone. Although the resort is located in the south of the country, its climate is different from other regions. The rainy season here begins in June and lasts until the end of October. But from March to May the resort is sunny and dry. Daytime temperatures are within +35 degrees. The warm sea warms up to +29 degrees. This is the best period for relaxation, since at high temperatures there is a low level of humidity, which means the heat is tolerated normally. When planning a vacation at this resort, you should pay attention to the weather in Khao Lak. The main thing is that your vacation does not fall during the rainy season. By the way, at this time the rains are not too annoying, since they fall at night. But the sea becomes rough and stormy. In the summer they even cancel everything excursion programs to the islands. At this time there are very few tourists here, and therefore bars, hotels, shops and restaurants are temporarily closed.

Beach

The most luxurious beaches of Khao Lak are still practically unknown to our holidaymakers. The town itself is undeservedly deprived of the attention of our travel agencies. Many tourists learn about the resort quite by accident and come to it for the first time during excursion programs.

The beaches of Khao Lak stretch for more than twenty kilometers from north to south. In fact, they occupy the entire coastline along Andaman Sea. The most famous and well-equipped beaches are located in the bay of Khao Lak National Park. Among them are Nang Thong, Bang Niang, Khuk Khak. But the coast of Khao Lak itself is not very popular among tourists.

The resort itself consists not only of the town, but also of several nearby villages. As a rule, if holidays are offered in this region, then most likely we are talking about these villages, since their infrastructure is the most developed. There is a good choice hotels, restaurants, bars and shops.

The beaches we have listed are the most in demand and popular; the rest of the coast is more deserted. The northern regions generally have only a few expensive hotels, which are built right on the shore, and behind them the wild jungle begins. Restaurants and cafes operate only in hotels, and there are not even the usual shops in the area. If you want to go on a trip, you need to book an excursion at the hotel.

But the northern region can offer a very calm and secluded holiday. There are practically no tourists on the local coast. You can always find a place where there is not a single person within two hundred meters.

In general, all the beaches of Khao Lak cannot be called crowded, since the resort is not yet very well known and is so in demand. But here you can have a good rest, enjoying the clean sandy beaches and the warm sea.

Bang Niang

Bang Niang can easily be called the most popular beach in Khao Lak (description is given in the article). Talk about the resort without remembering sea ​​coast, is simply impossible. The beach is quite uncrowded, but very good for relaxation, and there is entertainment here. Hotels, bars and restaurants have been built along the coast. There are a couple of temples, a museum and a food market nearby. The local coast has deserted and busy areas. During the low season there are practically no tourists here. Therefore, this time will appeal to those who do not like noisy resorts.

According to reviews of Khao Lak, we can conclude that Nang Thong is another popular place. Unlike the previous beach, it is more elongated, but less wide. First line hotels are quite good. If you need to find a simpler option, then you should pay attention to the establishments located along the main road along which transport runs between Phuket and Bangkok.

There are even fewer tourists at this resort than in Bang Niang. But still there are all sorts of water activities, and the beach area is equipped with umbrellas and sun loungers. There is a lighthouse on the coast that you can even climb to. South part coastline is called Sunset Beach. Expensive hotels have been built on its territory.

Resort hotels

Many hotels here were built after the tsunami in Phuket. Khao Lak is a very young resort in this regard. Modern hotels can offer an excellent level of service and beautiful rooms. Local establishments are built to all modern standards. Some of the best hotels in Khao Lak are: “Breeze Beach Resort 5*”, “Khao Lak Emerald Beach Resort”, “Khao Lak Merlin Resort”. In general, the choice of accommodation at the resort is quite good. There are also simpler establishments and even guesthouses.

Local Attractions

What kind of resort is this without attractions? Any decent resort should have its amazing interesting places. It is for this reason that existing beauties are exploited or new ones are created artificially. Phanga Nga Province is beautiful region which boasts natural beauty. The sights of Khao Lak are everything that was once created by nature, namely rocks, reefs, caves and other objects. The resort also has a tsunami museum and several temples.

Tourists can visit the tsunami memorial, the main exhibit of which is a police boat. During the tsunami it was thrown onto the coast, and since then it has stood on a pedestal, reminding of the events of 2004. This place is located near Bang Niang Beach.

Padungtampotiwas Temple is famous for its huge gilded Buddha statue. There are very few visitors here, but monks live on the territory.

Not far from Nang Thong Beach there is a Chinese temple that is simply impossible not to notice from the outside. It is especially interesting because of the white statue of the goddess, which stands on a lotus flower, and a dragon reclines at her feet. There are many interesting sculptures inside the stunningly beautiful structure.

National Park

Holidays on Khao Lak are not only about the beach and the sea, but also about the opportunity to admire the local beauty. In particular, you can visit Khao Sok National Park, which is a natural attraction. The park covers an area of ​​about 125 square meters. km. It received national status in 1991. On its territory there is Mountain peaks and waterfalls, as well as interesting representatives of fauna and flora. The easiest way to see the park is on a guided tour, which can be purchased at any local travel agency. There are different travel options. You can ride through the jungle on the back of an elephant or walk along a short route. The choice, as they say, is yours.

Resort waterfalls

In reviews of Khao Lak, tourists recommend visiting the resort’s waterfalls. Almost all of them are located within the national park. The most interesting is Thong Chong Fa, it is located seven kilometers from Bang Niang Beach. The waterfall consists of five levels. And the lowest one forms fresh lake with cool water. You can swim in the pond after a difficult and difficult climb. The Hin Lad and Lam Prao waterfalls are very close by. One of them has two levels, and the second has three.

Similan Islands

All tourists vacationing in Khao Lak (Phuket) strive to get to the Similan Islands. This archipelago is located in the Andaman Sea, just 70 kilometers from Khao Lak. In total, it occupies an area of ​​about 142 square meters. km. Since 1982, it has been awarded the title of National Marine Sanctuary, and is controlled by the King himself. Similan means nine. Initially, there were nine islands, and later, in 1998, another one, Tachai, became part of the archipelago. The remaining islands are named Bangu, Similan, Huong, Payang, Mayan, Payu, Hok, Miang, Ha. The islands are a real paradise for divers. These are the places that are most popular for scuba diving. The coastal waters have many rock labyrinths, coral reefs and caves. Among the underwater inhabitants you can see many exotic specimens here. sea ​​waters Here they are so clean that they can be seen at 35 meters. No less beautiful animal world Similan Islands. They are home to forty species of birds, 25 species of reptiles and more than 30 species of mammals. Some of the most amazing creatures here include the furry crab, blue lizard, horned heron and leatherback turtle.

If you want to spend the night on the islands, then you can do this only on two of them - Miang and Similiang. Small houses are built here, and there are also bars and restaurants. You can book a sightseeing trip at one of the local travel agencies. However independent trip from Thap Lamu Pier will cost much less.

Surin Archipelago

The Surin archipelago includes five islands - Surin Nuea, Surin Tai, Klang, Ri, Khai. All of them are located in the Andaman Sea, approximately 57 kilometers from Khao Lak. The total area of ​​the islands is 140 square meters. km. They all have status national reserve. The islands have lagoons and forests, mountains and beautiful coral reefs, as well as a rich underwater world.

The Surin Islands have a diverse fauna and flora. About one hundred species of birds and thirty species of animals live here. The islands are home to the rarest sea turtles, which are protected by the state. The archipelago will appeal to all connoisseurs of virgin nature, which has not yet been touched by human hands.

What to do on the island?

While relaxing at the resort, you can find a lot of interesting activities for yourself. As we already mentioned, the Surin and Similan Islands are excellent diving destinations. There are also a number of dive companies in the city that offer reef diving trips. Snorkelers also gather here. Lovers can even go to the islands for a few days.

If speak about sea ​​activities, then it’s worth remembering surfing. Many agencies offer lessons with trainers, as well as the opportunity to rent equipment.

The resort can please all shopping lovers. Numerous markets offer very interesting goods. One of them is located in the center of Bang Niang. The market is open only three days a week. It sells vegetables, groceries, fruits and fish. You can also buy all kinds of goods here - clothes, dishes, souvenirs, etc. It is customary to bargain in the market, so the original price can be significantly reduced.

There is another market in the center of Khuk Khak that sells fresh produce. Owners of cafes and restaurants usually purchase everything they need there. You can also buy imported food products here.

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For some reason, Russian tour operators bypass Khao Lak resort side. Our compatriots get there mostly on their own. In contrast to the Scandinavians, who took a fancy to it and, apparently, determined the general atmosphere there with their restrained Nordic nature. The most interesting thing is that getting to Khao Lak is not much more difficult than getting to the trampled by tourists.

For those looking for peace

Tours to Khao Lak- this is a real find for those who want to relax, and not “have a blast.” A small number of tourists, among whom Scandinavians with reserved emotions predominate, secluded beaches, not particularly developed infrastructure entertainment. Most of all, this town is similar to the beginning of the tourist boom that began 25 years ago.

Main Khao Lak attractions- this is a multi-kilometer beach coast and the dense forests framing it rainforests. No one will stop you from meeting the dawn in romantic silence and spending the evening going beyond the horizon Indian Ocean, Sun. You don’t have to worry about getting in line at the nearest restaurant or cafe in advance. It's always free there, and Thai cuisine is the most authentic.

Beaches

Khao Lak is resort area, stretching from the town that gave it its name, a full thirty kilometers north along the Phet Kassem Road. The first place on the way from Phuket will be Ban Khao Lak village and Khao Lak beach. Further to the north are: the village of Ban La On and Nang Thong Beach, the villages of Bang Niang and Khuk Khak, each of which has its own beach of the same name.

Nang Thong Beach and Bang Niang Beach

If a serene beach holiday as such seems too boring to you, then you should stop at Nang Thong Beach and Bang Niang Beach. At the latter, tourists are even offered. In general, everything is familiar tourism infrastructure– bars, restaurants, salons, and bicycles – are present there. It is believed that best beaches Khao Laka are located right there. Of course, compared to Patong, it is extremely quiet there, and it is impossible to get lost on the same Bang Niang street with a dozen drinking establishments. Priestesses of the most ancient profession work there, so the “” point in the recreation program can be left.

Nang Thong Beach

Bang Niang Beach

Khuk Khak Beach

Khuk Khak Beach, in our opinion, is one of the most beautiful in Khao Lak. At the same time, it is the most deserted (people can only be found near hotels) and remote from those described above. For this reason, Khuk Khak is perfect for lovers of secluded relaxation. Also located here is one of the the best hotels of this resort - The Heaven Khao Lak.

Pakarang Beach

Pakarang Beach is mainly popular among professionals because it offers ideal conditions for this sport. Otherwise the beach is quite large and sparsely populated. Not far from the surf spot there is a fairly comfortable hotel Palm Galleria Resort.

Sunset Beach

Sunset Beach is the southernmost part after Khao Lak Beach and is located directly below the hill, near which there are several hotels with magnificent views of the bay. For couples in love, we recommend booking a cozy hotel Sensimar Khaolak Beachfront Resort, located right on the beach.


Pak Weeb Beach

Pak Weeb Beach, which is a continuation of Pakarang Beach, is very popular among tourists, but there is no clear boundary between them. It is distinguished by the presence of vegetation right next to the sea, calmer waves, and sparsely populated areas. Thanks to its snow-white sand, it has a second name - White Sand Beach.

Bang Sak Beach

Bang Sak Beach is located almost in the very north of Khao Lak, near the town of Takua Pa. The place is quite contrasting in terms of population - there are both deserted places and quite populated ones. There are also many in the surrounding area comfortable hotels and small restaurants offering savory dishes. We highly recommend visiting the Haadson Resort.

On the other five beaches, the atmosphere is peaceful and patriarchal. The forest or clean beach sand begins right outside the hotel's doorstep. But if this is not enough for you, then go to the island of Koh Kho Khao. It is located five minutes by sea from Bang Sak Beach. The length of its beach line is almost fifteen kilometers, and there are no more than a dozen hotels. There you can quite feel like Robinson and yearn for Friday.

Cultural program

Attractions. All of them are natural and natural in nature. Khao Lak National Park, waterfalls, cleanest beaches. Only the monument dedicated to the victims is man-made. This is a police boat abandoned on the shore. Exactly natural disaster This is explained by the fact that most of Khao Lak's man-made objects are no more than ten years old. Excursions to Khao Lak are offered by local travel agencies, but you can also go around them yourself.

Khao Sok National Park

Shops and shopping. This type of entertainment is only possible in Bang Niang or Nang Thong, but it will not bring much joy to shopaholic fans. There are few large chain stores in the villages, even 7-Eleven, which is widespread throughout Thailand, is a problem. The markets in Khao Lak offer the usual range of traditional Thai souvenirs and local “delicacies” at reasonable prices. If you can’t live without shopping, then go and visit shopping mall Central Festival.

Local market

Entertainment. The most significant places for a “full break” on Khao Lak there are Moo Moo Cabaret – a transvestite show, and Zantika Pub – night club. They are on main street Bang Niang. The beaches offer jet ski rentals and other beach activities. There are massage parlors, you can go to a bar or restaurant. If you have absolutely nothing else to do, then at night you can launch Chinese lanterns into the sky.

Weather

The best weather in Khao Lak observed during our Russian winter. From November to mid-March it is not particularly hot, just above thirty. Sometimes there are refreshing rains. The heat and great dryness begin in April and continue until June. If you want to spend summer holidays in the bathhouse, then come from May to October. The temperature is above thirty, it rains almost every day (usually at night). Exotics are added by strong winds that disperse high waves. The water temperature in any season is above 27 degrees.

Hotels

Holidays in Khao Lak Can't be called budget. Accommodation and hotels, which can be considered quite comfortable, are somewhat more expensive than, for example, in, although cheaper than in. Top hotels Khao Laka is located in Bang Niang and Nan Tong. There are no rooms cheaper than a thousand baht. There are offers for three thousand. The farther from the water, the cheaper. Along the shore there are, for the most part, hotels that look like bungalows. They are the most expensive. A five-minute walk from them there are three- and five-story guesthouses, which offer rooms for 400-500 baht. You can view hotel options on the widget below or search for others on websites and. The secrets of finding cheap and comfortable hotels are outlined

Rommani Hot Springs are one of the famous healing springs in Thailand. They have certain medicinal properties. The spring water contains minerals that are recommended in the treatment of certain diseases. People come to the hot springs to relieve psychological stress, as well as to get rid of muscle and back pain. Near the springs there are several swimming pools, a souvenir shop and a restaurant.

Rommani hot springs are one of the most beautiful springs. They are located in a picturesque valley. They are surrounded by a huge orchard. The springs are one of the largest springs on the island. Their waters erupt from the ground twenty-four hours a day. Travelers often set up camping around the area of ​​the springs. Local authorities There is no charge for this. Not far from the springs there are several hotels and inns, where visiting tourists also often stay.

Coordinates: 7.88378700,99.07745400

Butterfly Farm Khaolak

Butterfly Farm Khaolak/ Orchid Garden Khaolak - unique reserve tropical flora and fauna. It is one of the most interesting attractions in the Khao Lak area. The garden is located in the coastal area of ​​Bangiang beach on the way to the picturesque Chong Fah waterfall.

The main asset of the Butterfly Farm Khaolak / Orchid Garden Khaolak are beautiful exotic flowers - orchids - and amazing bright butterflies. There are a huge number of them here - all shapes, types and sizes. Orchids and butterflies create an unforgettable living rainbow that you can admire for hours.

In the garden you can observe all stages of the life of butterflies - from the eye-catching, whimsical caterpillars to the magnificent winged creatures into which they turn. The wingspan of some of them reaches twenty centimeters, and in size they are more like small birds.

In addition to orchids, there are a variety of tropical trees and flowers, and in addition to butterflies, many other endemic insects. Excursions are held on English language, but in the souvenir shop you can purchase thematic booklets in Russian and other languages. It is best to visit the garden in the morning, when the flowers open and the butterflies wake up.

Opening hours for Butterfly Farm Khaolak/Orchid Garden Khaolak: from November 1 to April 30, from 9.00 to 17.00. The cost of an adult ticket is 50 baht, a child ticket is 30 baht.

Coordinates: 8.69320000,98.25710000

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Tourist center Green Biking Club

Tourist centre Green Biking Club organizes the most interesting cycling excursions for vacationers around natural landscapes and attractions of the Andaman coast.

The base is located in a small white one-story building with a blue sign, standing in a clearing among tropical trees, which is very consistent with the name of the center.

Green Biking runs a variety of tours, from half-day or full-day cycling tours of the Khao Lak area to breathtaking island-hopping tours of up to 5 days. All tours start from the convenient base of The Green Biking, where you can change clothes, get a bike, necessary equipment and just relax before or after your trip and drink coffee in a calm and friendly environment.

The basis of any program is a mountain bike ride along country roads passing through mountains, picturesque jungles, secluded beaches, small villages, past beautiful temples, along the banks of clear rivers. In the middle or late afternoon, tourists can take a break from the bike with an elephant ride or rafting trip. In addition, during stops you can admire beautiful tropical plants and animals in the jungle, listen to birdsong, swim in the warm sea or a cool waterfall, and try delicious Thai dishes in a small cozy restaurant.

Green Biking Club also covers the daily life of Thais in great detail - the tours include visits to fish and shrimp farms, rice fields, orchards, and plantations where herbs for the famous Thai spices are grown. The guides speak Thai, English and German.

The schedule, cost and tour programs can be found on the Green Biking Club website.

Coordinates: 8.66359100,98.24772200

Khaolak Mini Golf Club has an 18-hole course that is in excellent condition. The field is located on the edge of the jungle in the ruins of an old temple. At the wall of the temple stands a statue of a seated Buddha with a cascading waterfall.

The entire town is built of red clay bricks. It's like you're in the Indiana Jones movie and playing mini golf is just one of the many adventures that await you.

It is worth noting that danger awaits you near each hole - either a lurking crocodile with its mouth wide open, or...

And when you get hungry, a cozy restaurant is at your service, blending seamlessly with the overall atmosphere of adventure. Khaolak Mini Golf Club is open daily from 10am to 10pm.

Coordinates: 8.67797300,98.25128300

Wat Bang Riang Temple

Temple Wat Bang Riang is considered a shining example of religious modern architecture Thailand.

The temple complex is impressive in its scale - it consists of three separate buildings: the main temple building and large statues with the image of Buddha and the goddess of mercy Guanyin. Wat Bang Riang is located near the village of Tep Put, 30 kilometers from Phang Nga province.

You can visit the temple by renting a car or motorcycle, or by booking a tour of the temples and the surrounding area of ​​Phang Nga. This tour includes not only a trip to the temple, but also a story about the history of Phang Nga, the culture of its people and visits to local villages.

Coordinates: 8.59348600,98.66891500

Boxing Club Khao Lak Muay Thai

Khao Lak Muay Thai is a small boxing gym where anyone can train with boxing champion Surachai Saengmorokarot. The owners of the establishment offer services for boxers with any level of skill, depending on the purpose of the visit: to discover the basics of Thai boxing, simply to maintain their physical shape, or even to prepare for a real fight.

Khao Lak Muay Thai regularly hosts spectator fights. There are seats around the ring for fans; entry to the spectator fight is paid. The technique of the participants in the fights is amazing; both former champions and boys who have already reached a certain level of skill in this sport take part in the fights.

It is important for tourists to remember that the entrance fee for the ring spectator hall will be slightly higher for them than for local spectators. However, during the game they will be offered beer at local prices.

Coordinates: 8.61645300,98.24407400

Diving Center "Underwater Adventure" in Khao Lak

Khaolak Scuba Adventures is a scuba diving club in Khaolak where you can plunge into the unknown sea ​​world and discover the state of “weightlessness”.

The diving center's program includes several courses designed for tourists of various levels with the mandatory presence of an experienced instructor. The initial level will introduce you to the beautiful and amazing underwater kingdom, where you can observe the life of marine inhabitants up close.

A more advanced level will help you strengthen your existing skills, teach you how to use professional equipment with Nitrox enriched air, which allows you to spend more time underwater in search of adventures or sunken ships, and there are actually three of them and there is a specially laid route to each of them. Well, as a small bonus, this is an underwater photography course. For even more sophisticated tourists there is a night swimming program.

For those who are professional divers, there are advanced training courses with training on complex equipment and the study of special techniques for movement and breathing under water.

Coordinates: 8.62005900,98.23419900

Diving center "Similan"

The Similan diving center specializes in diving excursions to the Similan Islands.

The center is located in the center of Khao Lak. This is almost a family business that specializes in visiting and exploring the underwater life of the Similan Islands. There is even a special program developed here that allows everyone - with different levels of training and experience - to take part in a diving safari.

Diving instruction and excursions are usually conducted in very small groups; experienced, certified instructors speak several languages. The center strives for comfort and positive emotions, which should be received by all participants in events.

Khao Lak- a resort in Thailand on the shores of the Andaman Sea. This resort is not yet very popular among our tourists; mostly Europeans choose Khao Lak for their holidays (for some reason there are a lot of Scandinavians in Khao Lak). In this article I will tell you everything I know about Khao Lak: description of the resort, features, beaches, Khao Lak hotels, transport, weather. Perhaps after reading this article you will choose not the neighboring noisy Phuket, but the quiet, calm, Europeanized Khao Lak :)

Quiet, uncrowded resort of Khao Lak in Thailand

Khao Lak: general information

The resort of Khao Lak stretches for many kilometers along the coast and highway No. 4, which connects with the south of Thailand and goes to. Figuratively speaking, Khao Lak starts from the pier from which speed boats depart for Similan and stretches to the town of Takua Pa, and this is not much, but more than 30 km along the highway! But: when talking about Khao Lak most often they mean the region from the national Khao Park Lak to Cape Pakarang and a little further north.


Khao Lak is marked schematically on the map with a red square. Blue square - central beaches Khao Laka

The first village you meet on the way from Phuket is called Ban Khao Lak, but the center Khao resort Lak is further north, behind the mountain. There is the village of Bang La On with Nang Thong beach, and further away the villages of Bang Niang and Khuk Khak with beaches of the same name. The most developed tourist infrastructure is on the first two beaches.

Map of Khao Lak beaches

As I already said, a highway passes through Khao Lak, on the sides of which there is all the infrastructure: hotels, restaurants, shops. On Nang Thong beach, all the infrastructure is stretched along the road and the beach, and from the highway to the sea it is literally 500 meters. Inexpensive hotels are located either right on the highway or across the road from the sea, closer to the mountains. But on the neighboring Bang Niang beach, basically all the hotels and restaurants are located on the streets that lead from the road to the sea. The distance from the highway to the sea in this place is about 1 km.


Route along the coast. Next to the highway is the entire infrastructure of the Khao Lak resort
The main street of Bang Niang, which leads from the highway to the beach
Bang Niang. On the way to the sea
The central street leads to the sea

In 2004, Khao Lak was very badly damaged by a tsunami; now there are signs everywhere around the resort telling where to run and what to do in the event of a tsunami; they say that the disaster warning system is working well.


In case of evacuation, run to the mountains

By the way, just a few days before our arrival in Khao Lak, an earthquake occurred somewhere in the sea near Indonesia, panic began in Thai groups on social networks, everyone predicted a tsunami. Luckily nothing happened. During our trip, we met a couple who were vacationing in Khao Lak at the time of the tsunami talk. They said that one evening they were having dinner in a cafe and the tsunami warning system went off, everyone sat on their bikes and went to the mountains. We waited there for a while, realized that nothing was happening, and returned to the hotel.

On Bang Niang beach, near the highway, almost opposite the 7 Eleven store, there is now a monument to the victims of the tsunami and a police boat, which was washed ashore during the tsunami. Nearby there is a stand with information about the 2004 tsunami and a museum where documentaries in English about this terrible event are shown.


A police ship that was washed ashore during the tsunami. All the people in it died
Next to the boat there is a small museum where they talk about terrible tsunami 2004

NOT budget resort , prices here are on average higher than, for example, or, but comparable to prices in Krabi: and. More details here:

Khao Lak is a fairly well maintained and clean resort. European-style restaurants, cute bars, beautiful evening lighting, trimmed trees, flowers - it seems that you are somewhere in Europe. They say that it is also Thai Hua Hin a sort of Europe in Thailand, but we haven’t been there, so I can’t say anything.

There are sidewalks in Khao Lak! This is such a joy, especially after Samui, where there are no sidewalks at all, well, maybe a little on and off.

Important! NOT youth resort, don’t look for discos and bars here with dancing until the morning, mostly elderly foreign couples or families with small children relax here. Of course there are bars, but not like these and they close quite early.


Khao Lak is a very clean and well maintained resort
Khao Lak even has sidewalks! This shady road leads to the beach
Cozy European restaurants
Restaurants near the sea with a gorgeous view

Khao Lak: weather and seasons

There are two seasons in Khao Lak:

  • rainy season from April-May to October
  • dry season from November to April

In principle, the rainy season in Khao Lak is unpleasant not so much because of the rain (it mostly falls at night), but because the sea is stormy and becomes dirty, ugly and dangerous for swimming :) The last time we vacationed in Khao Lak was in September and we never swam at sea due to big waves and rip currents. And excursions to the islands are canceled for the summer. Since Khao Lak is not very good anyway crowded resort, and in the summer there are generally few people here, some hotels, bars, restaurants and shops simply close for the summer.

Should you go on holiday to Khao Lak in May-June-July? If you choose a hotel on the seashore with good infrastructure, then you can safely go! If the sea is very stormy, then you can swim in the pool and take pleasant walks along the seashore. Fortunately, the long beaches of Khao Lak allow you to walk for many kilometers in one direction or the other.

But at the beginning of March the weather in Khao Lak was very hot. I really love the heat, but even I didn’t want to leave the air-conditioned room of our hotel during the day :) But the sea in March in Khao Lak was perfectly smooth (completely calm!) and very warm. How I love it :)


Calm and warm sea in March
Sea in September. It seems that the waves are not very big, but you approach the sea and the force of the elements simply knocks you off your feet! Swimming is dangerous!

Khao Lak where it is and how to get there

Khao Lak is located approximately 60 km from the entrance to the popular island of Phuket. From Phuket Airport to Khao Lak it is about 80 km or an hour and a half by car. Another airport is located in Krabi, and in Surat Thani railroad station. The most convenient way to get from Russia to Khao Lak is through Phuket, where there are direct flights during the season. More information about how to get to Khao Lak:

Transport in Khao Lak

Transport in Khao Lak is represented by songthaews, taxis and buses passing along the highway. You can take a songthaew for 100-150 baht between neighboring beaches, and a taxi, for example, will cost from 1000 baht. It is easy to go by bus to Phuket town (100 baht) or to the neighboring town of Takua Pa.

For freedom and ease of movement, it is best to rent a bike (from 200 baht) or a car ().



Taxi prices in Khao Lak from Bang Niang beach (where the tsunami monument is)
Prices in Khao Lak for renting bicycles and motorbikes

Khao Lak Hotels

Khao Lak is the territory of expensive, comfortable hotels for a pleasant stay on the very seashore. There is no cheap housing (up to 1000 baht) on the first line! If you, like me, prefer to spend your beach holiday in a hotel first coastline , then be prepared to pay an average of +/- 3000 baht per day.

Inexpensive hotels (up to 1,500 baht) are concentrated along the highway and on the street running perpendicular to the sea in Bang Niang. When we stopped in Khao Lak for just a few days and not for a beach holiday, but for an excursion to the Similan Islands, we settled not near the sea, but in the center of the entire infrastructure of Bang Niang beach, in a cool inexpensive hotel Nautical Home 850 m from the sea and 150 m from the highway. Later, we chose Khao Lak for a holiday with a child good hotels on the first line with its own beach: Manathai Khao Lak and.


One of the hotels on the beach
Our cool and inexpensive hotel Nautical Home ten minutes walk from the beach
The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani Resort is a great choice for families with children!

Special offers on Khao Lak hotels

Khao Lak hotels on the map

Beaches of Khao Lak

We were delighted with the beaches of Khao Lak: long, wide, almost deserted. The sand is yellow, coarse, clean. The entrance to the sea is smooth. True, there are strong low tides and sometimes storms. I won’t tell you much, I already wrote in great detail with photos and videos about the beaches of Khao Lak here:


Deserted beaches of Khao Lak. Khuk Khak beach in Khao Lak. People, ah!
The central part of Bang Niang beach
Khao Beach Varnish before sunset
Pak VIP beach in the north of Khao Lak
Swing for a photo shoot against the backdrop of the turquoise sea on White Sand Beach

Khao Lak infrastructure: cafes, shops, markets, etc.

The main infrastructure of Khao Lak is concentrated on two beaches, Nang Thong and Bang Niang. There are numerous cafes, bars, shops, massage parlors, and excursion bureaus. Beach restaurants along the coastline also attract tourists. You can have lunch there, watch the sunset over a bottle of beer, or simply rent a sun lounger and umbrella.


Beach restaurants with sun loungers on the seashore

Cafes, restaurants, bars

There are many cozy restaurants serving European food in Khao Lak. We didn’t have time to go into them, but two evenings we had dinner in one of the Thai cafes. For dinner (one dish + one beer) we paid 280-320 baht. We didn’t see any Makashnits. For dinners on the seashore they paid ~700 baht.


This is what our dinner looks like (+ a bottle of beer didn’t fit into the frame) in a Thai cafe in Khao Lak for 280 baht

It is believed that Bang Niang is a more expensive, but at the same time more developed beach, all the main bars with live music on Khao Lak are located here. Beach bars sometimes host parties with music and dancing on the sand. But you still need to understand that you won’t find much fun in Khao Lak, it’s not even on Samui, not to mention Patong. But there is somewhere to sit in the evening in Khao Lak :)


Bars and restaurants on the road near Bang Niang beach
Restaurants in the village center
Beach bar party announcement

Shops and markets

Of the chain stores in Khao Lak, there are quite a few 7 elven with normal prices. They are located on the highway at Bang Niang and Nang Thong beaches. As well as small shops with food, water, souvenirs, beachwear, etc. and so on. Prices for souvenirs and beach items are NOT low. There are many stores where they can sew you a suit or other clothes in a couple of days :)


Shop 7 Eleven and next to another supermarket with everything you need
In small shops in Khao Lak you can buy beach items and some souvenirs
A bunch of shops and workshops for sewing suits and other clothes

On Bang Niang beach behind 7 elven opposite the turn to Tsunami Memorial every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from lunch until 10 pm there is a market where tourists come from all over Khao Lak. Here you can find some souvenirs, some beachwear, food, fruit, etc. at normal prices.


The market in Khao Lak on Bang Niang Beach is open three days a week. In the evenings there are many tourists here who want to try Thai food
Market in Khao Lak

There is a morning fruit market in Khuk Khak next to the small bus station, which is indicated on all maps of Khao Lak. This market is open every day from early morning until 11-12 noon.

But still, it’s better to go to Phuket for shopping. This will not be difficult to do: you need to take a bus to Phuket on the highway, 2-3 hours of travel and 100 baht and you are in the center of Phuket town. Then you can take a tuk-tuk or songthaew and get, for example, to the Festival Center (you can see what the Festival Center is using Samui as an example).

The closest Big C supermarket to Khao Lak is in Takua Pa, and Tesco is on the way to Phuket in Khok Kloi.

Attractions Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a convenient departure point for excursions to neighboring islands. Some tourists come to Khao Lak only to visit:

  • Surin
  • Tachai - on this moment, unfortunately, closed indefinitely

Important: in summer, during the rainy and stormy season (usually from mid-May to late October) these islands are closed to visitors!

  • Deserted beaches
  • Kao Lak National Park - Lam Ru
  • Sai Rung Waterfall
  • Ton Chong Fa Waterfall
  • Ton Pling Waterfall
  • Lampi Waterfall

You can also ride elephants or go diving in Khao Lak - any travel agency, of which there are a great many, will tell you more about all the tours and excursions in Khao Lak.

Khao Lak review and conclusions

Khao Lak left a pleasant impression. We liked the fact that there are few tourists in Khao Lak, wide deserted beaches, good sea, clean streets, cozy cafes, excellent 5-star hotels on the very seashore, where you can relax quite inexpensively in the low season and off-season. And the village of Bang Niang itself is so cute. From Khao Lak it is convenient to go on excursions around the islands. Khao Lak has magnificent sunsets: the sun sets directly into the sea. Khao Lak is a place where I want to return again and again, unlike, for example, Ao Nang.


Preparing for romantic dinner on the beach at sunset
Evening street lighting
Sunset in Khao Lak

If I were going on vacation to Thailand for 2 weeks and wanted to visit the south of the country, I would do this:

  • 1 day. Arrival in Bangkok, overnight in Bangkok
  • Day 2. By train or plane to Surat Thani
  • Day 3. Transfer Surat Thani - Khao Sok
  • 4 – 6 days. Khao Sok and Cheow Lan Lake
  • Day 7 – transfer to Khao Lak
  • 7 – 12 days. Rest in Khao Lak + sail on a 2-3-day excursion to Similan and/or Surin
  • 12-14 days. Departure from Phuket Airport to Bangkok, Bangkok