Cheow Lan Dam (Ratchaprapa Dam)

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About Cheow Lan Dam (Ratchaprapa Dam)

The journey begins with a private Longtail boat ride, a decision that proves to be worth every penny. The early morning arrival ensures that the lake is almost exclusively theirs to enjoy. The tranquility of the lake, the serene atmosphere, and the stunning color of the water make for a truly beautiful experience. The freedom to decide their own itinerary allows for a three-hour exploration, including a stop at a raft house for a swim. The scenic overlook that follows the excursion is a must-see.

The breathtaking views at Sai Chon Raft House are a sight to behold. The newly renovated huts are clean and comfortable, providing a perfect base for wildlife sightings. Canoeing around the houses, one might even spot wild elephants. To fully experience all that this place has to offer, a stay of at least two nights and three days is recommended.

The lake, a man-made reservoir nestled amidst dramatic limestone mountains, is often referred to as the Guilin of Thailand. However, this comparison hardly does justice to the breathtaking beauty of the place. The reservoir dam, an hour's drive from Surat Thani city, serves as the access point to the lake. Numerous tour operators offer a range of services, from short 2-3 hour boat rides to overnight stays in one of the floating resorts on the lake. The boat ride, even in drizzling and misty weather, adds to the atmosphere. Stops at the สามเกลือ (3 buddies) rock formation and a floating resort and fish farm are included in the tour. The silence that envelops the lake once the boat engine stops is incredibly peaceful.

The tour group is a diverse mix of people from all over the world, making the experience even more enriching. The boat ride, lasting around 40 minutes, offers beautiful views and great opportunities for capturing footage. A stop at the tourist point provides interesting insights into the history of the dam. The journey then continues to the smiley lakehouse. This experience is highly recommended for anyone visiting near Khao Sok.

The journey from Surat Thani to the marina is followed by a private boat hire for 2 hours. The prices are set and clearly displayed, eliminating the need for haggling. The two-hour trip is ample time to admire the beautiful rock formations and even enjoy a quick swim in the water. This place is simply unmissable.

Trekking around Ratchaprapa Dam is a great way to spend time. The virgin forests and the opportunity to do a water bike trip around the lake make for an exciting adventure. The view from the top of the mountain is breathtaking and well worth a visit when in Ban Ta Khun, Surat Thani.

The karsts and scenery are well worth the time and effort to get there. Staying one or two nights in one of the floating houses, ranging from basic to luxury, is recommended. This allows for ample time to go kayaking and swim in the warm water lake. The most “luxury” floating houses, 500 Rai and Panvaree, come with air conditioning but are much more expensive compared to other 5-star accommodations in the area.

For those who prefer to travel independently, driving to the pier is a viable option. The drive from Khao Lak is particularly beautiful. The journey can be easily managed with the help of a map. Upon arrival at the pier’s office inside the Khuihlin Minimart, there are albums with pictures and a map with each bungalow marked. The cost is divided into three parts: accommodation, boat, and National Park’s fee. There are also small souvenir shops in the pier and a Minimart to stock up on snacks.

In conclusion, whether to opt for a package tour or travel independently depends on personal preference. Some tips for the journey include buying a poncho at the ticket booth, bringing a waterproof camera, and carrying a swimsuit and spare clothes. The best time to visit is during sunny and clear weather. However, during the rainy season, hiking and cave exploring may not be available.