Travel to Cheow Lan Lake:
An Unforgettable Journey into Nature
Cheow Lan Lake, also known as Ratchaprapha Dam, is one of Thailand’s hidden gems, nestled within the stunning Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani Province. This tranquil lake is renowned for its emerald-green waters, towering limestone cliffs, and rich biodiversity. A visit to Cheow Lan Lake offers an immersive experience into Thailand’s pristine wilderness, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Get to Know Cheow Lan Lake
Cheow Lan Lake, also known as Ratchaprapha Dam, covers a total area of approximately 185,000 rai (or around 297 square kilometers), combining both water and surrounding forest areas.
Forest area:
110,000 rai
Specifications:
Water area:
75,000 rai
Forest Areas:
Surrounding the vast water expanse
is a lush tropical rainforest, part of the greater
Khao Sok National Park, one of the oldest rainforests
in the world, dating back over 160 million years.
The forest provides a natural habitat for wildlife and offers visitors opportunities for trekking, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching. Towering limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and caves enhance the area’s natural beauty, making it a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Water Areas:
Cheow Lan Lake's emerald-green waters, surrounded by towering limestone mountains and small islands, reach depths of 30-50 meters. The lake supports diverse aquatic life, and its stunning scenery, with crystal-clear waters reflecting the mountains, attracts visitors worldwide.
How to Get to Cheow Lan Lake
Cheow Lan Lake is accessible by several modes of transport, depending on your starting point:
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By Air: The nearest airports are Surat Thani Airport and Phuket International Airport. From Surat Thani Airport, the drive to the Ratchaprapha Pier (Cheow Lan Lake Pier) takes about 1.5 hours. From Phuket, it takes around 2.5 to 3 hours by car.
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By Train: Surat Thani Train Station is the nearest rail connection. Once you arrive, a taxi or pre-arranged transfer can take you to the pier, approximately a 1-hour drive away.
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By Road: For those traveling from Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, or Koh Samui, driving or taking a shuttle is a popular option. Several transportation services offer transfers to Ratchaprapha Pier, where boats depart to explore the lake.
Private Boat Transfer Service
from Ratchaprapha Municipal Pier to Floating Resorts on Cheow Lan Lake
The Journey on the Lake
The breathtaking scenery and tranquility of nature will leave you with an unforgettable impression.
Once you arrive at Ratchaprapha Pier, the adventure truly begins. Longtail boats and guided tours are available to take you across the stunning lake, where you can admire the towering limestone formations that rise dramatically from the water. Popular stops include iconic spots like the Khao Sam Kler (Three Friends Mountain), as well as hidden lagoons, caves, and rainforest trekking routes.
What to Expect at Cheow Lan Lake
Cheow Lan Lake offers a range of activities for all types of travelers:
Boat Tours:
Take a longtail boat tour to explore the hidden corners of the lake, stopping at secluded coves, islands, and scenic viewpoints.
Kayaking:
Paddle through calm waters while surrounded by lush rainforests and towering limestone cliffs.
Wildlife Spotting:
Cheow Lan Lake is home to diverse wildlife, including hornbills, gibbons, elephants, and more. A boat tour or guided trek is the best way to experience this natural wonder.
The Best Khao Sok Floating Bungalows
On Cheow Lan Lake
Floating Resorts: For a unique overnight experience, stay at one of the lake’s floating resorts. These eco-friendly accommodations offer spectacular views, a peaceful atmosphere, and easy access to the lake’s attractions.
Panvaree
Resort
Activities and tours
on the Cheow Lan Lake
There are a number of activities on and around the Cheow Lan Lake, you can visit caves, climb a waterfall or hike to a lookout point. Some activities are seasonal and depend on the weather in Khao Sok. Also the location of the floating house where you are staying often has an influence on the activity you are going to do.
The symbol of Cheow Lan Lake (Khao Sam Kler)
Cheow Lan Lake and Khao Sam Kler: The Splendor of Nature in Khao Sok
Cheow Lan Lake, located within Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani, is a serene and breathtaking destination. The stunning limestone mountains surrounding the emerald-green waters create a peaceful atmosphere, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. Among the many attractions, "Khao Sam Kler" (Three Friends Mountain) stands out as the lake's most iconic landmark.
The Formation and Characteristics of Khao Sam Kler
Khao Sam Kler consists of three limestone peaks standing side by side in the middle of the lake. These majestic formations were created over millions of years through natural geological processes. Rain and wind eroded the limestone, giving the mountains their distinct and striking shapes. The emerald waters of the lake beautifully reflect the limestone peaks, enhancing their grandeur and vibrancy.
The elegance of Khao Sam Kler draws tourists from all over to admire this natural masterpiece. The unique shape of the three peaks makes it a popular spot for photography, and visitors are enchanted by the peaceful yet awe-inspiring presence of the mountains amidst the tranquil lake.
How to Visit Khao Sam Kler
To visit Khao Sam Kler at Cheow Lan Lake, travelers begin their journey at Ratchaprapha Pier, the main gateway to the lake. The best way to explore the lake and get up close to Khao Sam Kler is by taking a longtail boat ride. The boat trip takes about 30-40 minutes, and along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of limestone cliffs and the clear green waters.
For a more immersive experience, tourists can choose to stay overnight at one of the floating bungalows on the lake. These accommodations offer the chance to enjoy views of Khao Sam Kler throughout the day, from the golden glow of sunrise reflecting off the water to the magical hues of sunset. An overnight stay also provides opportunities to explore nearby caves and enjoy other natural attractions in the area.
Reaching Cheow Lan Lake is easy from Surat Thani city. Visitors can rent a car or take a minivan from Surat Thani or Phuket, with a travel time of approximately 2-3 hours. Once at Ratchaprapha Pier, longtail boats are available to take visitors to Khao Sam Kler.
Cheow Lan Lake and Khao Sam Kler are must-visit destinations for nature lovers seeking to experience the tranquil beauty of southern Thailand. Whether it’s a scenic boat ride, relaxing on a floating bungalow, or simply admiring the majestic limestone formations, Khao Sam Kler offers a memorable and inspiring experience for all visitors.
Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary
Plaisang is nestled within the expansive Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary, which was officially declared a sanctuary in 1974. The sanctuary covers vast areas of Surat Thani Province, including Tambon Takuk Nuea, Vibhavadi District, Tambon Khao Phang, and Tambon Kraisorn, spanning over 772,500 rai. In 1983, 49,875 rai of this area was adjusted due to the creation of Ratchaprapha Dam, transforming part of the forested area into the renowned Cheow Lan Lake. "Chiew Lan" refers to one of the river rapids in Khlong Saeng, with its long canal dividing Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary from Khao Sok National Park.
Forest and Ecosystem:
Plaisang, along with Khlong Saeng, was once covered in a vast expanse of evergreen forest. This region, part of the Tenasserim mountain range, is home to one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in southern Thailand. The unique flatlands and forested hills are crisscrossed by clear streams that support a variety of plant species. The forest here is a lush, tropical haven for countless species of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the area and cannot be found anywhere else.
Streams and Headwaters:
Plaisang is known for its clear streams and headwaters that originate from the surrounding rainforests. Flowing through the sanctuary's limestone cliffs, these pristine waters provide essential hydration to wildlife, especially during the dry season. The streams offer crystal-clear views of aquatic life and are vital to sustaining the region’s ecosystem. They create a habitat for freshwater fish and serve as an important resource for the animals of Khlong Saeng.
Wildlife Diversity:
Plaisang and Khlong Saeng are home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife. The sanctuary’s unique ecosystems support species that thrive on land, in the water, and in the sky. Animals such as wild elephants, gaur, serow, and wild boars roam the dense forests, while rare bird species like hornbills and eagles soar above. In addition, Khlong Saeng is a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, making it a critical area for conservation. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see these animals as they gather at streams and watering holes.
Travel and Access:
To visit Plaisang, travelers embark on a scenic private longtail boat journey from Cheow Lan Pier, which takes 1-2 hours. Along the way, the views of Cheow Lan Lake, with its towering limestone cliffs, are stunning. Once you arrive, guided walks through the rainforest provide opportunities to explore the lush surroundings, spot wildlife, and learn more about the region's rich biodiversity from experienced local guides. Whether hiking through the forest or observing wildlife by the clear streams, Plaisang offers an immersive experience in one of Thailand’s most pristine natural environments.
Khlong Saeng's Ecological Importance:
The Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Thailand’s most ecologically rich regions. Its lowland forests and streams create a habitat unlike any other, hosting a wide array of plant and animal species. This sanctuary is a critical haven for conservation, protecting the last remnants of the once-expansive evergreen forests of the Tenasserim Mountains. The ecosystems here are incredibly complex, supporting not only wildlife on the land but also in the waters and skies. This blend of unique landscapes and thriving wildlife makes Khlong Saeng a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
