Khao Lak is a string of villages which lie on the west coast of Thailand. Once a quiet and relatively untouched region of the country, these villages are fast becoming a hotspot for adventure sports and beachside vacations for Thai locals and tourists alike. The best way to reach Khao Lak is via road, with Phuket’s airport being the most important airway terminal nearby.

Khao means mountain, so Khao Lak literally translates to Lak Mountain. A combination of six beaches, these villages all combine to form ‘Khao Lak’ as we know it. The beaches are a starting point for those wishing to explore nearby areas and northern Andamans too. Every beach has its own vibe, as does every market.

The mornings at the beaches offer some of the most serene and quiet experiences most other places in Thailand cannot provide. Lots of hidden eateries and shopping opportunities make this a haven for all kinds of tourists, albeit the area is gaining more and more popularity among backpackers and budget travellers.