Cheow Lan Lake Overnight

Cheow Lan Lake Adventure Overnight & Raft House

After a quick stop at a roadside viewpoint for the obligatory selfie we were driven to the pier at Cheow Lan Lake where we boarded a traditional longtail boat which took us through mangroves and stunning limestone rock formations to the floating rafthouses where we would be spending the night. Upon arrival were greeted by the friendly staff, shown our modest but comfortable accommodation and after lunch we spend the afternoon lazing around, swimming in the clear lake and even tried some gentle canoeing.

Cheow Lan Lake was formed in 1982 when the Rajaprabha Dam flooded the surrounding valleys creating a 165-square kilometer artificial lake with a rich natural environment , well-preserved rainforest and huge limestone cliffs.

As the sun began to set we boarded our longtail boat for a night safari. As well as a beautiful sunset and wonderful views we saw shy wildlife including a family of wild boars scavenging for food on the bank, a baby elephant drinking from the lake, and the sounds of nature – birds, monkeys, cicadas – was so relaxing.

Cheow Lan Lake Adventure Overnight & Raft House

Upon our return to the rafthouse we ate a delicious dinner and chilled out with the other guests. Next morning was a pre-dawn wake up for a sunrise safari which was arguably better than yesterday’s sunset safari. With an early-morning mist still hanging over the lake and cliffs, and bare tree branches poking out of the water the view was almost post-apocalyptic. Our guide listened for monkey calls and turned off the boat engine so that we could see and hear the monkeys and hornbills in the lush treetops of the rainforest

. An hour or so later we returned to the rafthouses for a leisurely breakfast followed by a gentle jungle trek which included a beautiful coral cave and some great views of the surrounding area. After our trek we boarded our boat and headed back to the pier and then back to Khao Lak having enjoyed a wonderful 2days immersed in nature.