The Thai Mueang District in Thailand is popular among visitors for its blend of picturesque beaches and mountainous forests. The area is divided among three national parks, each with its own distinct features, namely: Khao Sok National Park, Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park and Thai Muang – Khao Lam Pi National Park.
Khao Sok National Park
Containing a significant portion of one of the oldest rainforests in the Southern Thailand region, the Khao Sok National Park was officially established in 1981. The park is incredibly biodiverse, with over 50 mammal species, plus an astonishing 300 bird species inhabiting the region. It is impossible to even imagine the number of insect species crawling all over the region. If you’re accompanied by a guide, he can also help you find the largest flower found worldwide, the Rafflesia.
In addition to the abundant fauna and flora found in the park, people make long journeys from their resorts in Khao Lak to the park for fun water excursions at the Ratchaprapha Lake.
Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park
As is the case with the other national parks in Southern Thailand, the Khao Lak Lam Ru is intent on appreciating nature’s secrets. Nestled between the Lak Mountain and the city of Khao Lak, this park sprawls over an impressive 125 km2. You can explore most of Southern Thailand’s flora and fauna by visiting this park. You’ll have an excellent time hiking up these mountains and finding interesting creatures.
The park is most notable for its variety of butterflies, and beautiful kaleidoscopic ones will flutter around you while you explore the park. This magical moment will hit a new high if you visit the Lam Ru waterfall, a very gratifying experience.
Thai Muang – Khao Lam Pi National Park
Aptly named because the park’s terrain is divided between the two regions of Thai Muang and Khao Lam Pi, and each side offers unique experiences. Khao Lam Pi lies to the east of Route 4, with Thai Muang on the left. The east side is full of verdant hilly landscapes, and the west has vistas of a beautiful coastline with shimmering beaches and clear waters.
70% of the park is on the Khao Lam Pi side, but due to its mountainous landscape, activities are far and few. Regardless, it contains a few of the prettiest waterfalls in the world, such as Nam Tok Lampi.
The Thai Muang side, in contrast, is full of activities for you to pursue. An ideal spot to see turtle hatchlings, you can go on longboat rides to monkey-watch as well. If you’re staying at a seaside resort such as Avani+ Khao Lak Resort, take a short 40-minute ride to the park to enjoy a mix of forestry and beach at this park.