CHEOW LAN LAKE • KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK

EXPLORE CHEOW LAN LAKE FLOATING BUNGALOWS & ANCIENT RAINFOREST

Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of emerald water against your floating bungalow, surrounded by ancient limestone cliffs painted with the soft colours of dawn. Discover everything you need to plan an unforgettable Cheow Lan Lake adventure – from floating bungalows and hidden caves to expert tips that ensure a truly magical experience.

What Is Cheow Lan Lake (And Why Is It So Magical)?

“Guilin of Thailand” Limestone Karsts Emerald Water

Welcome to the “Guilin of Thailand”, a place of such dramatic beauty it feels like stepping into another world. Located in Khao Sok National Park, Cheow Lan Lake is a vast, stunning reservoir created in 1982 by the construction of the Rajjaprabha Dam.

But this is no ordinary lake. Its creation resulted in a spectacular landscape of over 100 islands — towering limestone peaks rising from serene emerald water — and one of the world’s oldest evergreen rainforests, creating a destination that feels magical and otherworldly.

Image 1
Image 3
Image 4
Image 5
Image 6

Planning Your Cheow Lan Lake Experience

Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay See the difference at a glance before you book.

Quick Visit

Day Trip

A glimpse of the lake, but not the full story.

  • Short cruise through the main viewpoints.
  • Shared boats with multiple tour groups.
  • Fixed, rushed schedule with limited stops.
  • Miss sunrise, sunset and starry night sky.
  • Less time to relax, swim and simply enjoy the quiet.
Best for Tight schedules
Experience Highlight only
VS
Recommended

Overnight Stay

The true Cheow Lan Lake experience.

  • Wake up to mist floating over emerald water.
  • Watch golden sunsets & a sky full of stars.
  • Enjoy the lake when it’s quiet, after day tours leave.
  • More time to swim, kayak and truly slow down.
  • Deeper connection with jungle sounds & wildlife.
Best for Memorable trips
Experience Immersive & magical
Why we recommend staying overnight The magic of Cheow Lan Lake happens at sunrise, sunset and late at night — moments you simply can’t experience on a day trip.

Floating Bungalow

Wake up to calm emerald water right at your doorstep.

What to Expect from a
Floating Bungalow (Rafthouse)

Experience the magic of staying on the water — literally. Rafthouses are floating bungalows built directly on Cheow Lan Lake, offering unmatched immersion in nature.

Sleep Right on the Water

Your room floats gently on emerald water beneath towering cliffs.

Authentic & Peaceful

Rustic charm or upgraded comfort — choose the stay that fits your style.

Disconnect to Reconnect

Limited signal, unlimited stars. Escape noise and rediscover silence.

“There’s no better feeling than diving straight into the lake from your front porch.”

Top Things To Do at Cheow Lan Lake

A blend of adventure, tranquility and breathtaking scenery—curated experiences you shouldn't miss.

Classic Long-tail Boat Trip

Cruise through towering limestone karsts with expert guides and discover hidden corners including the iconic “Three Brothers”.

🏊‍♂️ Kayaking • Swimming • Relaxing

Explore quiet coves by kayak, swim in emerald water, or unwind on your bungalow porch overlooking million-dollar views.

🗺️ Jungle Hikes & Cave Exploration

Trek through ancient rainforest, visit coral-like caves, and spot wildlife like langurs, hornbills and macaques.

Your Essential Cheow Lan Lake Trip Planner

A little bit of planning goes a long way in ensuring your adventure is perfect and completely stress-free. Here are our expert tips for planning your visit to this incredible destination.

🌤️

Best Time of Year to Visit

Cheow Lan Lake is stunning year-round. Dry Season (Dec–Apr): Sunny days, blue skies, calm water. Green Season (May–Nov): Lush rainforest, dramatic clouds, fewer crowds.

🎒

What to Pack

  • Swimwear & quick-dry towel
  • One extra change of clothes
  • Sunscreen, hat & sunglasses
  • Insect repellent + simple first-aid kit
  • Headlamp or torch (electricity is limited)
  • Dry bag for protecting valuables
🚐

How to Get There

Cheow Lan Lake is a few hours from Phuket or Khao Lak. While self-arranged travel is possible, logistics can be complex. The easiest and most relaxing way is to join an organized tour with air-conditioned transfers directly from your hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your unforgettable journey to Cheow Lan Lake.

Is it safe to swim in Cheow Lan Lake?
Absolutely! The water is clean, deep, and refreshingly warm. Life jackets are always available.
Is there electricity and phone signal at the floating bungalows?
Most bungalows have limited electricity, usually at night. Phone signal is weak or nonexistent.
What wildlife can I see at Khao Sok National Park?
You may spot macaques, langurs, hornbills, eagles, and sometimes wild elephants.
Do I need to be very fit to join a tour?
Activities like kayaking and boat tours suit most fitness levels.
Can you visit Cheow Lan Lake with children?
Yes — kids will love the adventure and sleeping on the lake.