Khao Lak - Lamru marine national park, Andaman sea, southern Thailand

Khao Lak-Lam Ru national park was established in 1991 as a terrestrial park. It was transferred to the Marine National Park Division in 1995. This was due to the presence of marine resources in the vicinity of this coastal park. The park covers an area of 125 square kilometers. It is planned to be extended in the future to include a 3 km zone around the headland of Laem Hin Chang. This will incorporate several areas of coral reef and a large area of open water into the park boundary.

The headquarters is 33 km south of Takua Pa town, in Phangnga province, 1 hour drive north of Phuket town. It is just 50 meters from the highway no. 4. The headquarters is situated in a picturesque location on the headland of Laem Hin Chang, with sandy beaches and tropical forest both within easy reach.

The geology of the region consists of fairly recent igneous deposits. The mountains consist of granite which produces typical dome shaped mountains, clearly visible in the peaks around Ton Chong Fah and Lam Ru waterfalls. The granite rocks are rich in Mica and were said to be laid down between 60 to 140 million years ago during the Cretaceous period. This particular geology has important economic deposits including Tin which was once extracted in many areas in this region.

The majority of the park is covered by tropical evergreen forest some of which are pristine. However in several places human encroachment have altered the forest structure. Places which have been transformed into fruit farms or rubber plantation are found. The park has a small area of coastal habitat and beaches on its western end on Andaman sea.

Tourist attractions
The park has several waterfalls; the most visited being Lam Ru waterfall. This waterfall is located about 30 km from the headquarter, in the eastern part of the park. It is reached from highway no. 4090 via Kapong town.

The cape near the headquarters offers an interesting 3 km long nature trail to a beach. The trail starts from the park restaurant along the edge of the cape. It is fairly easy walking although there are a couple of short steep ascents and descents. End of the trail is a small sandy beach which is backed by a freshwater lagoon. This beach is quite remote (say so until 2001) and several wildlife tracks may be found in the sand. Species seen include Water monitor, Moonrat , and Crab eating macaque.

Accommodations and facilities
There are a couple of bungalows near the headquarters. Camping is allowed, and there are public toilets and restaurants near the headquarters.

Contact address
Khao Lak - Lam Ru National Park
Takua Pa District
Phangnga Province 82110


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