Khao Sok National Park, located in southern Thailand, is home to one of the world’s oldest rainforests, believed to be over 160 million years old—older even than the Amazon. This lush, mountainous area has remained relatively untouched by ice ages or major climatic shifts, allowing its biodiversity to flourish across the ages.

Historically, the rugged terrain of Khao Sok kept it isolated and preserved. Before becoming a protected area, the region was inhabited by local communities and, during the 1970s, served as a refuge for political activists and insurgents due to its remote and dense jungle. Their presence indirectly helped preserve the forest from logging and development at a time when other regions were being cleared.

Recognizing its ecological value, the Thai government officially designated Khao Sok as a national park in 1980, ensuring protection for its rare species, ancient trees, and dramatic limestone formations. The creation of Cheow Lan Lake in 1987, formed by the Ratchaprapha Dam, added a new dimension to the park—transforming a remote rainforest into one of Thailand’s most stunning eco-tourism destinations.

Today, Khao Sok is a symbol of natural heritage and conservation success, offering visitors a glimpse into the deep, untamed past of the Southeast Asian rainforest.