Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park

[{"type":"heading","content":"About Khao Lak–Lam Ru National Park"},{"type":"heading","content":"Why it’s worth a visit"},{"type":"paragraph","content":"Khao Lak–Lam Ru National Park combines the best of both worlds: dense tropical jungle and a wild, rocky coastline with hidden, idyllic coves! The main entrance to the national park is spectacularly situated on a hilltop directly overlooking the sea."},{"type":"paragraph","content":"From here, a beautiful coastal walking trail leads through the shady rainforest straight to the famous Small Sandy Beach – a small, picturesque cove with fine sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for a refreshing dip after your walk. Added to this is the beautifully situated park café, which is one of the best vantage points in the region!"},{"type":"heading","content":"Getting There, Parking & Admission"},{"type":"paragraph","content":"The main entrance (Headquarters) is very centrally located directly on the main road (Route 4) on the mountain pass between Khao Lak South Beach and the centre of Khao Lak."},{"type":"paragraph","content":"• Getting there: Just a few minutes’ journey by scooter, taxi or hire car. The entrance to the visitor centre is very well signposted."},{"type":"paragraph","content":"• Parking & Admission: There is free, shaded parking on site. Admission costs 100 THB."},{"type":"paragraph","content":"• Great ticket perk: Make sure you keep your ticket safe! It’s an official national park day pass. You can use it to visit Ton Chong Fa Waterfall, located further inland, on the same day without having to pay the entrance fee again."},{"type":"heading","content":"The Walking Trail & Difficulty"},{"type":"paragraph","content":"Route from the main entrance: From the Visitor Centre, the approximately 1.6 km-long nature trail (Hat Lek Nature Trail) winds its way through the jungle down to Small Sandy Beach."},{"type":"paragraph","content":"Difficulty: Easy to moderate. The path runs over uneven forest floor, wooden steps and bridges along the cliffs. The tropical humidity will certainly make you work up a sweat. Sturdy trainers or good outdoor sandals make the walk noticeably more comfortable than flip-flops."},{"type":"paragraph","content":"Alternative route: If you’d like to avoid the long walk, you can also reach Small Sandy Beach via a much shorter access path from the main road (see the ‘Beaches’ section)."},{"type":"heading","content":"Best time to visit & insider tips"},{"type":"paragraph","content":"• Café with sea views: Be sure to allow time for an iced coffee or a fresh fruit shake at the Park Café / Restaurant! The terrace is perched directly above the cliffs and offers an unrivalled panoramic view of the turquoise sea."},{"type":"paragraph","content":"The ideal day’s itinerary:"},{"type":"paragraph","content":"• Start in the morning at the main entrance to the national park and take a leisurely walk through the jungle to Small Sandy Beach."},{"type":"paragraph","content":"• Then treat yourself to a cool drink at the Cliff Café with its stunning views."},{"type":"paragraph","content":"• In the afternoon, use your ticket to explore the Ton Chong Fa Waterfall in the hinterland and try out the Natural Fish Spa there!"},{"type":"paragraph","content":"• Packing list: Plenty of drinking water for the trail, swimwear, a towel, mosquito repellent and sturdy footwear."}]