The park is named after its two mountain peaks: Lak and Lam Ru. Originally a coastal park, it was expanded in 1984 to include the forested and mountainous hinterland and protect the province's most important watershed. On August 30, 1991, Khao Lak-Lam Ru was declared Thailand's 66th national park. Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park is home to numerous waterfalls, including the largest, Lam Ru Waterfall, a five-tiered cascade that flows year-round. Other notable waterfalls include Lam Phrao, Hin Lat, and Chong Fa. The park also boasts Khao Lak's most beautiful small sandy beach. A scenic hike leads past various points of interest, such as a footprint carved into a rock and a lovely viewpoint, before finally ending at the beach.

Entrance fee: 200 THB per adult / 100 THB per child. Official park website: www.khaolak.net. The park headquarters has four bungalows. Camping is permitted, but there is no designated campsite. Next to the headquarters, there is a restaurant and one or two smaller, privately owned restaurants. Public restrooms are available. Accommodation should be booked in advance at the National Park Administration Reservations Office, Royal Forestry Department, Chatuchak, Bangkok. Tel: (02) 5780529, 5794842, 5795269.

Personally, I always traveled by bicycle within a 10-kilometer radius of the main road in Khao Lak, but you can also rent a scooter (be sure to observe Thai laws). Tuk-tuks are also available, although in Khao Lak, private songthaews (shared taxis) are often the easiest way to get around.

How to get there

How do you get to Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park? I personally cycled within a 10-kilometer radius of the main road in Khao Lak. You can also rent a scooter (be sure to observe Thai laws). Tuk-tuks are also available, although in Khao Lak, private songthaews (shared taxis) are often the easiest way to get around.