Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park

Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park spans Phang Nga Province in southern Thailand. The park covers 125 square kilometers of protected land, including mountain peaks such as Khao Lak and Lam Ru, waterfalls like Ton Chong Fa, and trails leading to quiet coastal areas such as Small Sandy Beach. Established in 1991, this area has rebounded from the 2004 tsunami, with restored habitats supporting Sunda colugos, binturongs, and scarlet-rumped trogons. You can hike through evergreen forests, swim in natural pools below waterfalls, or camp near beaches where clear waters and the sounds of birds fill the area.

Hiking Trails and Beach Access

Begin your visit at the park headquarters near the coast. A 1.4-kilometer trail links two beaches here. The Hat Lek Nature Trail takes roughly an hour to complete, winding through tangled roots, climbing steep steps, and reaching viewpoints above the forest. Wear shoes with good grip and bring drinking water—the humidity and rocky paths require steady effort. If the hike seems too demanding, drive to the southern parking area and walk 10 minutes to Small Sandy Beach. This stretch of white sand slopes gradually into the sea, perfect for swimming or snorkeling when conditions are safe. Watch for parrotfish near rocky outcrops or rest under the casuarina trees lining the shore.

Visiting Ton Chong Fa and Lam Ru Waterfalls

Ton Chong Fa, the park’s most visited waterfall, sits 12 kilometers inland from the headquarters. Its five-tiered cascade includes a 10-meter drop into a pool deep enough for swimming. Arrive before 9:00 AM to enjoy the site with fewer visitors, particularly between December and April. For a broader cascade, travel 45 kilometers northeast to Lam Ru Waterfall, which flows consistently across five wider tiers. Both locations have basic rest areas, but pack your own snacks—the only restaurant in the park serves Thai seafood dishes near the coast, with most meals costing around 200 Baht.

Observing Wildlife in the Park

The forests here are home to more than 170 bird species, including bushy-crested hornbills and thick-billed spiderhunters. Early morning hikes improve your chances of seeing Malayan weasels or black giant squirrels. Near streams, look for Robinson’s stream skinks and amboina box turtles basking on rocks. Though historical accounts note Malayan tapirs in the area, these animals likely no longer reside here due to past poaching. Park rangers sometimes lead evening walks to spot red-headed kraits or Sunda colugos moving between trees after dark.

Park Entry Fees and Accommodation

The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Foreign adults pay a 100 Baht entrance fee, which allows access to all areas for 72 hours. Camping near the headquarters costs 225 Baht per tent, while basic bungalows (560–800 Baht per night) can be reserved through Thailand’s Department of National Parks website. Public minivans from Phuket stop near the visitor center, but renting a scooter makes it easier to reach distant trails. Avoid visiting between May and October, when heavy rains muddy paths and increase waterfall currents.

Tsunami Recovery and Ecosystem Protection

The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami caused severe damage to coastal communities near the park, with over 4,000 lives lost in the surrounding region. Replanting efforts for forests and mangroves have helped ecosystems recover. Memorials near local resorts serve as reminders of the disaster. The park’s expansion in 1984 to safeguard watersheds now benefits both wildlife and water systems—mangroves along the Phang Nga River draw mudskippers and kingfishers, while forests filter rainwater into streams that feed the waterfalls.

Staying Nearby and Transportation Tips

Budget travelers often choose the park’s bungalows, while nearby Khao Lak town provides options like mid-range resorts with air conditioning. Shared minivans from Phuket Airport take approximately 90 minutes to reach the park; agree on taxi fares in advance if not using public transport. Tuk-tuks connect Khao Lak’s main road to the park headquarters, but confirm return pickup times—drivers seldom wait at isolated trailheads.

Staying Safe During Your Visit

Use mosquito repellent and check for leeches after walking in rainforest areas. Swimming at waterfalls is safest during the dry season, but avoid slippery submerged rocks. For trails like Namtok Ton Fa—a 7-kilometer route through thick vegetation—rangers suggest hiring a guide through the headquarters. Mobile phone signals fade beyond the main visitor area, so carry a printed map or download offline GPS coordinates before arriving.