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Khao Lak
Khao Lak is a new section of the Andaman coast that is developing as a
quiet, low-key get-away. This stretch of beach perhaps 20 kilometres long
now has about a dozen bungalow resorts, many of quite a good standard with
prices from 1,000 to 4,000 Baht. There are also many simpler, cheaper ones.
New resorts are growing rapidly, and one 5-star establishment is due to open
at the end of 2002.
![The quiet beach of Khao Lak [13233 bytes]](http://www.phuketmagazine.com/images/img-1-8-1.jpg) This
new resort beach begins at, and stretches North from, the tiny but scenic
National Park called Khao Lak. It is little over an hour’s drive north of
Phuket, and when approaching from the south the road rises steeply over the
mountain headland that is Khao Lak. The road breaks out of the forest on the
northern crest of the headland, showing a wide panorama of beach that
stretches into the distance. The first resort is right at the bottom of the
mountain.
![Khao Lak [13919 bytes]](http://www.phuketmagazine.com/images/img-1-8-0.jpg) The
beach here is quiet and tranquil, and most of the resorts have built low
density bungalows amongst the trees. Small beach bars snuggle in the trees
at the high water mark, and are inviting and relaxing. Sunsets here can be
spectacular, with the red orb of the sun melting into the ocean horizon.
The water here is pleasant and warm, though do expect it as deep and clear
as on the beaches of Phuket, which, as an island, has the advantage.
Mainland beaches never quite match those of islands. But for sheer
relaxation, Khao Lak is difficult to beat. There is little entertainment
here, few noises and little distraction.
The mountains in the back do offer some adventure: elephant trekking, a
little white water rafting in some seasons and trekking in the mountains and
forest. Khao Sok National Park. This is a magnificent preserve of uncut
rainforest a little more than an hour’s drive away. Those seeking adventure
should rent a car and drive the backroads that cut through the mountains
that stretch from the very back of Khao Lak to the other side of the
Thai-Malay peninsula. It is possible to make a circular trip from here to
Phang Nga town through beautiful mountains. See our page on Attractions of
Khao Lak for further information.
Adventure and other activities are relatively new to the area or are not
well developed, so the options offered by the resorts here are still few.
But things are changing year to year. Ask the reception of your resort. Or
do as most visitors to Khao Lak do - just stay in one place and really
relax.
For more information see our page
Attractions of
Khao Lak |
