Flora and fauna
Khao Sok National Park is home to a wide range of wild animals including elephants, bears, marbled cats and wild boar. The area is also a haven for birds with hornbills, kites and kingfishers amongst the hundreds of species seen. Khao Sok is well-known too for its plant life with the most famous being the Rafflesia. One of the largest flowers in the world, there are a number of varieties with Rafflesia kerri the one found in Khao Sok. Known in Thai as Bua Phut, this striking red flower is the official flower of Surat Thani province. The Rafflesia is sometimes called the ‘corpse lily’ because of the putrid smell it gives off to attract flies for pollination. It’s possible to go on a guided hike to see this unique flower, but expect to be walking a number of hours for the privilege.