Tourists Flock to Khao Sok for Tubing Amid Rainy Season Boom

Surat thani: Thai and foreign tourists are flocking to Khao Sok National Park in Phanom District, Surat Thani Province, for tubing activities, creating a lively atmosphere and boosting the local tourism economy. Tubing and canoeing have become increasingly popular at Khlong Sok Bridge, a bustling tourist business area at the entrance to the park. This increase in activity is attributed to the abundant rainfall this year, resulting in ideal water levels for these activities. According to Thai News Agency, most tourists begin their tubing adventure from the Khlong Sok Bridge, floating downstream alongside breathtaking limestone cliffs for about 3 kilometers. The experience offers a refreshing escape with clean, beautiful water. Mr. Thawatchai Phucharoen, the owner of "Khaosok Monkey and River Camps," highlights that weekdays see around 30 tourists, with numbers rising to about 50 on weekends. Tubing costs range from 250 baht per person for groups of six or more to 400-450 baht for smaller groups, inclusive of various services such as parking, shuttle service, equipment, and insurance. The Khao Sok area hosts over 10 tubing providers, with some resorts also offering these services. This influx attracts at least 300 tourists daily, and during long weekends, the number exceeds 1,000. The short high season from June to August witnessed similar numbers, significantly benefiting local businesses, including accommodations, tourism services, grocery stores, souvenir shops, restaurants, and transportation services, thus contributing to the community's economic growth.