how to get to koh sok national park

2 min read 05-02-2025

Koh Sok National Park, a haven of biodiversity in Southern Thailand, beckons with its lush rainforests, stunning Cheow Lan Lake, and abundant wildlife. But getting there requires a little planning. This guide outlines the various routes to reach this incredible destination, helping you choose the best option for your travel style and budget.

Reaching Koh Sok: Your Transportation Options

Reaching Koh Sok National Park involves a multi-stage journey, typically starting from Surat Thani, a major transportation hub in Southern Thailand. Here's a breakdown of the common methods:

1. By Bus: The Budget-Friendly Choice

From Surat Thani: Frequent buses depart from Surat Thani's bus terminal to Takua Pa, the nearest town to Koh Sok. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. From Takua Pa, you'll need to take a songthaew (shared taxi) or hire a private taxi to the park entrance. This option is the most affordable.
From Krabi: Buses also operate from Krabi to Takua Pa. This route takes longer, approximately 4-5 hours.
Booking: Buses can be booked at the terminal or through online travel agencies. Check schedules in advance, especially during peak season.

2. By Private Taxi or Minivan: Comfort and Convenience

Door-to-Door Service: Hiring a private taxi or minivan offers door-to-door service, directly from your location (airport, hotel, etc.) to the park entrance. This is the most convenient option, especially for groups.
Flexibility: You can customize your itinerary and stop along the way.
Cost: This is significantly more expensive than the bus but offers unparalleled comfort and efficiency.

3. By Train and then Bus/Taxi: A Scenic Journey

Train to Surat Thani: Take a train to Surat Thani, enjoying the scenic Thai countryside.
Connecting Transportation: From Surat Thani, follow the same steps as the bus option, taking a bus or taxi to Takua Pa and then onward to the park. This option allows for a more relaxed journey.

4. By Flight and then Transfer: The Fastest Route

Fly to Surat Thani (URT): Fly into Surat Thani Airport (URT), the closest airport. Flights are available from major cities in Thailand and internationally.
Ground Transportation: From the airport, you'll need to arrange transportation via taxi, minivan, or rent a car to reach Takua Pa and subsequently, Koh Sok. This is the fastest, though potentially the most costly, option.

From Takua Pa to the Park Entrance: The Final Leg

Regardless of your arrival method in Takua Pa, you'll need to get to the Koh Sok National Park entrance. Options include:

Songthaew: These are shared taxis that travel regularly between Takua Pa and the park. It's a cost-effective method, though you may need to wait for a full vehicle.
Private Taxi: Hiring a private taxi offers a more comfortable and direct journey. Negotiate the fare beforehand.

Choosing the Right Route for You

The best way to get to Koh Sok depends on your priorities:

Budget Travelers: The bus option from Surat Thani is the most economical.
Comfort and Convenience: A private taxi or minivan provides the most comfortable and efficient journey.
Scenic Route: Combining a train journey to Surat Thani with a subsequent bus or taxi provides a scenic experience.
Speed: Flying into Surat Thani and then transferring is the quickest method.

Remember to book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak season. With a little planning, you'll soon be enjoying the natural beauty of Koh Sok National Park.