Khao Sok Floating Bungalows / Raft Houses

The bungalows and other accommodations in Khao Sok National Park are a small step up from camping basically. The reason is that the material used is mostly bamboo (grass family) and Nipa Palm fronds (used for roof thatching).

The good news environmentally speaking is that these bungalows are extremely low impact. However, with this also comes the fact that they are in constant need of repair.

These bungalows belong to the National Park, not PaddleAsia. We do some repair work ourselves from time to time though.

Here are some photos so you can see exactly what the bungalows look like.

Viewed from one of the houses built on a hill, you can see the layout of the bungalows. The sun rises over the limestone karst mountains in the background. It's Nature's alarm clock.

Each bungalow has a rear deck. You can swim in the reservoir. It's very clean. The deck is a nice place to take a nap between paddling or hiking outings.

Each bungalow has two mattresses on the floor. Mosquito netting is supplied, though mosquitoes are rare in Khao Sok for some strange reason.

The walkways are made of small diameter trees and bamboo.
Care must be taken when walking as these are floating walkways.

Shared shower and toilet facilities are located on the land. As the reservoir is used for hydro-electric power and as water supply for Surat Thani and other nearby towns, the water level changes throughout the year.

The bungalows are merely a base for the real reason to visit Khao Sok. Nowhere else in southern Thailand can compare to the abundance and variety of wildlife that you'll see here. If you're used to more fancy accommodations, these quaint, very low impact, basic bungalows are a small sacrifice for the privilege of being in such a magical place. Most guests, however, do find the bungalows to be delightfully simple, charming and a wonderful addition to their Khao Sok experience. There is beauty in simplicity.