Plizio Visual Lab
Cheow Lan Lake
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Lake
Weather…
Water temperature…
Cheow Lan Lake is a remarkable feature of the geography and culture of Thailand. An artificial lake with the appearance of a lost world. Emerald water surrounds hundreds of limestone karsts that look like the spires of a sunken civilization. Staying overnight here is like camping on an alien water planet. Located within Khao Sok National Park. Created in 1982 by the construction of the Ratchaprapha Dam. Covers an area of 185 square kilometers. This natural area reflects the scenic diversity of Thailand, from the Mekong basin to the islands of the Andaman Sea. Like many notable places in Thailand, it combines regional character with the legacy of the Chao Phraya, the Mekong and Buddhist tradition. Thus, this place contributes to the diverse profile of Thailand, between the Andaman coast, rice paddies and tropical forests.
- Location: Thailand
- Nearby: Ao Nang (16 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 93 | 30 | 114 | 129 | 274 | 291 | 290 | 301 | 352 | 330 | 248 | 154 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to the water is typically arranged via longtail boats departing from the Rajjaprabha Dam pier, which serves as the main entry point to this striking artificial lake.
Best season
The dry season from December to April is generally the best time for exploration, offering calmer waters and clearer skies for viewing the dramatic limestone karsts.
Terrain & paths
The experience is primarily water-based, navigating the vast emerald lake, though some stops may involve short, muddy trails leading to local caves or viewpoints.
What to bring
Essential items include sun protection, a dry bag for electronics, comfortable sandals, and a light rain jacket, as sudden tropical showers can occur even in the dry season.
Parking
Substantial parking facilities are normally available at the main dam pier, where most visitors leave their vehicles before embarking on their boat journeys.
Safety
Wearing a life jacket while on the boats is typically mandatory, and visitors should listen carefully to their guide's instructions when swimming or exploring nearby caves.
Time needed
While a brief boat tour might take a few hours, many visitors opt for a full-day excursion or an overnight stay in floating bungalows to fully experience the serene environment.
Geography
Facts
- An artificial lake with the appearance of a lost world. Emerald water surrounds hundreds of limestone karsts that look like the spires of a sunken civilization. Staying overnight here is like camping on an alien water planet.
- Located within the Kingdom of Thailand.
- Shaped by the monsoon climate of Southeast Asia.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the water suitable for swimming?
Yes, the water is very clean and refreshing.
Can I rent kayaks?
Yes, usually directly at the accommodation on the lake.
Is there electricity?
Often limited; many bungalows use generators.
When is the best time?
From December to April the weather is most stable.
Do I need cash?
Yes, there are no ATMs at the lake.
Cheow Lan Lake: where is it located?
Cheow Lan Lake is located in Thailand.
Cheow Lan Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Cheow Lan Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Cheow Lan Lake is a remarkable feature of the geography and culture of Thailand.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Thailand →
Nearby cities
Surat Thani
Surat Thani is a city on the Gulf of Thailand and the gateway to the popular islands of Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao.
Chumphon
Chumphon is the gateway to southern Thailand, offering pristine beaches and access to the islands of the Gulf.
Ko Samui
Thailand's second largest island, famous for palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves, and luxury resorts.
Ranong
A charming southern port town famous for its natural hot springs and as the gateway to pristine Andaman Sea islands.
Don Sak
The main ferry hub for Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, home to the Nangkam Beach.
Baan Chaloklum
A picturesque fishing village in the north of Koh Phangan, known for its relaxed atmosphere and world-class diving spots.
Ko Pha-ngan
Known for the legendary Full Moon Parties, the island also offers quiet bays and yoga retreats.
Ko Tao
Ko Tao is a tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand, world-renowned for its exceptional diving sites and crystal-clear waters.
Ko Phayam
A relaxed, car-free island known for its cashew trees, bohemian vibe, and beautiful, secluded bays.
Baan Sri Thanu
The spiritual heart of Koh Phangan, famous for yoga retreats, vegan cafes, and stunning sunset views on the west coast.
Baan Wang Ta Kien
An idyllic coastal village in northwest Koh Phangan, famous for world-class snorkeling spots and stunning tropical sunsets.
Baan Mae Nam
A peaceful coastal village in northern Koh Samui, known for its long, palm-fringed sandy beach and relaxed atmosphere.
Baan Bo Phut
An elegant area on Koh Samui, famous for its historic Fisherman's Village and laid-back beachfront resorts.
Baan Lamai
The second largest tourist hub in Koh Samui, offering a mix of vibrant nightlife, tradition, and stunning swimming bays.
Baan Chaweng Noi
An exclusive neighborhood south of Chaweng, known for its hillside luxury villas and crystal-clear waters.
More places
Khao Sok National Park
A landscape of towering limestone karsts and ancient rainforest older than the Amazon.
Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park
An archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand.
Wat Plai Laem
A colorful Buddhist temple on Koh Samui, known for its giant statue of Guanyin, the goddess of compassion, with 18 arms.