Nature Unplugged
Explore Surat Thani
Surat Thani is often overlooked by travellers heading straight to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan or Koh Tao. Yet beyond being a transport hub, the province offers one of Thailand’s most beautiful natural landscapes, from limestone mountains and rainforest to peaceful lakes and historic temples.
Check out my photography in Surat Thani Visual Stories
for more inspiration and places I have explored.
What I Enjoy About Travelling in Surat Thani
For me, Surat Thani was all about the journey. My cousin and I decided to take an eight-hour road trip south, with one destination in mind — Khao Sok National Park and the stunning Cheow Lan Lake, often called the “Guilin of Thailand” because of its towering limestone cliffs rising from emerald waters.
The long drive was absolutely worth it. Reaching our floating resort was another adventure, requiring almost an hour by long-tail boat from the pier. Once we arrived, everything slowed down. We spent two nights doing very little besides sitting on the deck, watching the perfectly still lake with limestone mountains and rainforest stretching in every direction. Sunrise and sunset were simply magnificent, changing the colours of the lake every hour.
One of the highlights was paddling across the calm water by kayak and paddle board, while another unforgettable moment was spotting wild elephants along the shoreline. Many visitors only stay for one night, but I found two nights much more rewarding. It gave us time to truly enjoy the peaceful surroundings instead of rushing from one activity to another.
Life on the lake is also wonderfully simple. There is no electricity during the day, and Wi-Fi is only available at the common area. Rather than being an inconvenience, it became the perfect excuse to disconnect from everything and simply enjoy nature.
Before leaving Surat Thani, I also visited the mystical Khao Na Nai Luang Dharma Park, famous for its beautiful sky bridge floating above the mist during the early morning. We also stopped at Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya, one of southern Thailand’s oldest and most important temples, showcasing the rich history of the ancient Srivijaya Kingdom.
Where to Visit
While many people only pass through Surat Thani, the province has several memorable attractions worth exploring if you have a little extra time.
Here are Surat Thani’s
Most Instagrammable Spots
- Cheow Lan Lake (Khao Sok National Park) – Emerald waters surrounded by towering limestone mountains, floating raft houses, and breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.
- Khao Sok National Park – One of Thailand’s oldest rainforests with jungle trekking, caves, waterfalls, wildlife and spectacular scenery.
- Floating Raft Resorts – Spend a night surrounded by nature with peaceful lake views unlike anywhere else in Thailand.
- Khao Na Nai Luang Dharma Park – A beautiful hilltop temple complex featuring the iconic sky bridge above the clouds.
- Wat Phra Borommathat Chaiya – This is A historic temple dating back to the Srivijaya period and one of southern Thailand’s most significant religious sites.
- Ratchaprapha Dam – The gateway to Cheow Lan Lake with scenic viewpoints overlooking the reservoir.
- Coral Cave (Pra Kay Petch Cave) – A fascinating cave inside Khao Sok known for its unique limestone formations.
- Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary – One of the best places to experience untouched rainforest and wildlife.
- Ban Nam Rad Watershed Forest – Crystal-clear freshwater streams perfect for canoeing through lush forest.
- Phum Riang Beach – A quiet coastal beach with traditional fishing communities nearby.
- Tapee River Waterfront – Enjoy riverside walks and local life in Surat Thani city.
- Surat Thani Night Market – Sample southern Thai dishes and local desserts in a relaxed atmosphere.
- Bang Bai Mai Floating Market – A local market offering food, handmade products and canal-side charm.
- Khun Thale Lake – A peaceful freshwater lake popular for sunsets and cycling.
- Ko Lamphu Public Park – A green riverside park ideal for an evening stroll in Surat Thani city.
