Ban Nam Rad is a small town in Surat Thani province, near which lies a natural pool with incredibly clear water! Some call it the Emerald Pool of Khao Sok, due to its proximity to the national park, or the Emerald Pool of Surat Thani, as it's located in Surat Thani province. This freshwater pool, nestled amidst lush green forest, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful natural pools in Thailand! Swimming there is a true delight! You can also row on the river branching off from the pool, discovering a stunning, verdant natural landscape. In my opinion, it's at least as beautiful as swimming in the Emerald Pool itself.

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, it's busier on weekends and holidays. Admission (swimming and boat trip): 150 THB per person for foreigners. Note that you can also hire a rower for your boat trip for 50 THB (which I highly recommend). There are free lockers in front of the entrance, as bringing bags or plastic bags inside is prohibited. Changing facilities are located in the restrooms to the left of the entrance. There are snack stands between the parking lot and the entrance, but they don't open until around 10:00 AM.

To reach the Emerald Lake of Ban Nam Rad, transportation is necessary. There is no public transport. Hotels and local agencies are happy to organize excursions to Ban Nam Rad and the impressive, hilltop temple of Khao Na Nai, which is only a half-hour drive away. From Surat Thani or Khao Sok, the spring forest of Ban Nam Rad can be reached in about an hour.

How to get there

How do I get to the Emerald Lake of Khao Sok (Ban Nam Rad)? To reach the Emerald Lake of Ban Nam Rad, transportation is necessary. There is no public transport to the lake. Hotels and local agencies are happy to organize excursions to Ban Nam Rad and the impressive, hilltop temple of Khao Na Nai, which is only a half-hour drive away. The drive from Surat Thani or Khao Sok to the spring forest of Ban Nam Rad takes about an hour.