Ratchaprapha Municipal Pier
CHEOW LAN LAKE-KHAO SOK NATIONAL PARK
Ratchaprapha Municipal Pier: Gateway to Adventure in Cheow Lan Lake
Ratchaprapha Municipal Pier, also known as Ratchaprapha Dam Pier, is the primary starting point for travelers looking to explore Cheow Lan Lake in Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani Province. Located near Ratchaprapha Dam, this scenic spot plays a vital role in supplying electricity to southern Thailand while offering a beautiful gateway to the lake’s natural wonders.
Facilities and Services
At Ratchaprapha Municipal Pier, visitors can take longtail boat tours to popular attractions around the lake, including Khao Sam Kler (Three Friends Mountain), floating resorts, and various scenic viewpoints. The pier is equipped with essential amenities such as parking, restrooms, and restaurants for travelers to relax before embarking on their journey.
How to Get to the Pier
Ratchaprapha Pier is located about 65 kilometers from Surat Thani city. It is easily accessible by car or van from Surat Thani Airport or Surat Thani Train Station, taking approximately 1.5 hours. Shuttle services are also available from other major locations like Phuket, Khao Lak, and Krabi, providing convenient travel options for visitors.
Map Coordinates
The GPS coordinates for Ratchaprapha Municipal Pier are 8.9184° N, 98.8154° E, making it easy to locate via various map applications. Travelers can simply follow the route to this exciting gateway for an unforgettable journey on Cheow Lan Lake.
Municipal pier Cheow Lan Dam (Ratchaprapha Pier)
Map Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Rwcv7CgzakVqtUk89
Parking place at Cheow Lan Dam (Ratchaprapha Pier)
Map Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YW744dQGnPoKvnNc8
Cafe Khao Sok (Ratchaprapha Pier)
Location https://maps.app.goo.gl/t2DLzP9YA7Vj6CHu6
The Starting Point for Cheow Lan Lake Adventures
Setting off from Ratchaprapha Pier marks the beginning of an exciting adventure across the emerald-green waters of Cheow Lan Lake, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The boat ride takes visitors through pristine nature, stopping at scenic viewpoints, caves, waterfalls, and even offering glimpses of rare wildlife in Khao Sok National Park.
Ratchaprapha Municipal Pier is the perfect gateway for travelers seeking to explore the breathtaking beauty of Cheow Lan Lake. Whether embarking on a scenic boat tour or staying overnight at a floating resort, this pier offers a doorway to exciting natural adventures.
Activities and tours
on the Cheow Lan Lake
There are a number of activities on and around the Cheow Lan Lake, you can visit caves, climb a waterfall or hike to a lookout point. Some activities are seasonal and depend on the weather in Khao Sok. Also the location of the floating house where you are staying often has an influence on the activity you are going to do.
The symbol of Cheow Lan Lake (Khao Sam Kler)
Cheow Lan Lake and Khao Sam Kler: The Splendor of Nature in Khao Sok
Cheow Lan Lake, located within Khao Sok National Park in Surat Thani, is a serene and breathtaking destination. The stunning limestone mountains surrounding the emerald-green waters create a peaceful atmosphere, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. Among the many attractions, "Khao Sam Kler" (Three Friends Mountain) stands out as the lake's most iconic landmark.
The Formation and Characteristics of Khao Sam Kler
Khao Sam Kler consists of three limestone peaks standing side by side in the middle of the lake. These majestic formations were created over millions of years through natural geological processes. Rain and wind eroded the limestone, giving the mountains their distinct and striking shapes. The emerald waters of the lake beautifully reflect the limestone peaks, enhancing their grandeur and vibrancy.
The elegance of Khao Sam Kler draws tourists from all over to admire this natural masterpiece. The unique shape of the three peaks makes it a popular spot for photography, and visitors are enchanted by the peaceful yet awe-inspiring presence of the mountains amidst the tranquil lake.
How to Visit Khao Sam Kler
To visit Khao Sam Kler at Cheow Lan Lake, travelers begin their journey at Ratchaprapha Pier, the main gateway to the lake. The best way to explore the lake and get up close to Khao Sam Kler is by taking a longtail boat ride. The boat trip takes about 30-40 minutes, and along the way, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of limestone cliffs and the clear green waters.
For a more immersive experience, tourists can choose to stay overnight at one of the floating bungalows on the lake. These accommodations offer the chance to enjoy views of Khao Sam Kler throughout the day, from the golden glow of sunrise reflecting off the water to the magical hues of sunset. An overnight stay also provides opportunities to explore nearby caves and enjoy other natural attractions in the area.
Reaching Cheow Lan Lake is easy from Surat Thani city. Visitors can rent a car or take a minivan from Surat Thani or Phuket, with a travel time of approximately 2-3 hours. Once at Ratchaprapha Pier, longtail boats are available to take visitors to Khao Sam Kler.
Cheow Lan Lake and Khao Sam Kler are must-visit destinations for nature lovers seeking to experience the tranquil beauty of southern Thailand. Whether it’s a scenic boat ride, relaxing on a floating bungalow, or simply admiring the majestic limestone formations, Khao Sam Kler offers a memorable and inspiring experience for all visitors.
Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary
Plaisang is nestled within the expansive Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary, which was officially declared a sanctuary in 1974. The sanctuary covers vast areas of Surat Thani Province, including Tambon Takuk Nuea, Vibhavadi District, Tambon Khao Phang, and Tambon Kraisorn, spanning over 772,500 rai. In 1983, 49,875 rai of this area was adjusted due to the creation of Ratchaprapha Dam, transforming part of the forested area into the renowned Cheow Lan Lake. "Chiew Lan" refers to one of the river rapids in Khlong Saeng, with its long canal dividing Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary from Khao Sok National Park.
Forest and Ecosystem:
Plaisang, along with Khlong Saeng, was once covered in a vast expanse of evergreen forest. This region, part of the Tenasserim mountain range, is home to one of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in southern Thailand. The unique flatlands and forested hills are crisscrossed by clear streams that support a variety of plant species. The forest here is a lush, tropical haven for countless species of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the area and cannot be found anywhere else.
Streams and Headwaters:
Plaisang is known for its clear streams and headwaters that originate from the surrounding rainforests. Flowing through the sanctuary's limestone cliffs, these pristine waters provide essential hydration to wildlife, especially during the dry season. The streams offer crystal-clear views of aquatic life and are vital to sustaining the region’s ecosystem. They create a habitat for freshwater fish and serve as an important resource for the animals of Khlong Saeng.
Wildlife Diversity:
Plaisang and Khlong Saeng are home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife. The sanctuary’s unique ecosystems support species that thrive on land, in the water, and in the sky. Animals such as wild elephants, gaur, serow, and wild boars roam the dense forests, while rare bird species like hornbills and eagles soar above. In addition, Khlong Saeng is a sanctuary for rare and endangered species, making it a critical area for conservation. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to see these animals as they gather at streams and watering holes.
Travel and Access:
To visit Plaisang, travelers embark on a scenic private longtail boat journey from Cheow Lan Pier, which takes 1-2 hours. Along the way, the views of Cheow Lan Lake, with its towering limestone cliffs, are stunning. Once you arrive, guided walks through the rainforest provide opportunities to explore the lush surroundings, spot wildlife, and learn more about the region's rich biodiversity from experienced local guides. Whether hiking through the forest or observing wildlife by the clear streams, Plaisang offers an immersive experience in one of Thailand’s most pristine natural environments.
Khlong Saeng's Ecological Importance:
The Khlong Saeng Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Thailand’s most ecologically rich regions. Its lowland forests and streams create a habitat unlike any other, hosting a wide array of plant and animal species. This sanctuary is a critical haven for conservation, protecting the last remnants of the once-expansive evergreen forests of the Tenasserim Mountains. The ecosystems here are incredibly complex, supporting not only wildlife on the land but also in the waters and skies. This blend of unique landscapes and thriving wildlife makes Khlong Saeng a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.