A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Khao Lak vs. Mount Aspiring National Park for Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Khao Lak and Mount Aspiring National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Khao Lak

Khao Lak is a friendly, idyllic, and serene area. You'll find world class beauty in Khao Lak as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Khao Lak travel costs.

Mount Aspiring National Park

Mount Aspiring National Park is a undeveloped, remote, and rugged national park. The famous beauty of Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Mount Aspiring National Park travel costs.

Khao Lak and Mount Aspiring National Park : Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Khao Lak. Although Khao Lak and Mount Aspiring National Park are popular destinations, Khao Lak has more sights and attractions for tourists. Khao Lak is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Mount Aspiring National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Khao Lak is more touristy than Mount Aspiring National Park and is known for its undersea marine life, white sand beaches, and mellow coastal vibe. It is also well known for Khao Sok National Park. Mount Aspiring National Park is famous for its mountains, glaciers, and alpine lakes.

How is Khao Lak different from Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mount Aspiring National Park and Khao Lak. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Khao Lak is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Khao Lak offers a few options for museum-goers. You'll find plenty or natural beauty, but not much in the form of temples or museums.

Mount Aspiring National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Khao Lak is a nice place to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Khao Lak. There's a range of southern Thai classics that include seafood, curries, grilled meats, and even vegetarian options. You'll also find an abundance of western food restaurants that serve everything from pizza to burgers.

Mount Aspiring National Park has a small number of restaurants to choose from. Bring plenty of food supplies, because amenities are in short supply in many parts of the park.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Nightlife?

Khao Lak is a nice place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Khao Lak. While it's a tranquil place, there are still some bars and clubs that have a laid back atmosphere and are fun places to hang out in the evening.

Mount Aspiring National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing is the best nightlife in the area.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Resorts?

Khao Lak is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a resort destination.

Khao Lak is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The resorts cater to couples and families and offer a laid back and relaxed setting.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Khao Lak is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Khao Lak to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many great dive and snorkel spots in the area and you'll find no shortage of excursions and day trips, whether you're interested in scuba diving or snorkeling.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Beaches?

Khao Lak is very popular for the beach. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Khao Lak are among the best in the world. The beaches are a highlight of any trip to Thailand. They offer a laid back and peaceful setting with white sand, turquoise water, and tropical marine life. Some of the best beaches include Bang Niang Beach - which is one of the most popular, Nang Thong Beach - which is one of the most beautiful, and Coconut Beach - which is one of the most idyllic.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Hiking?

Mount Aspiring National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Around Mount Aspiring National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are many different types of trails in the park that range from shorter day hikes to multi-day hikes. The difficulty level doesn't always correspond to the length of the hike, so do your research before you set out. Some of the most known hikes in the area are the Blue Pools Track, the Rob Roy Track, the Routeburn Track, and the challenging Cascade Saddle Route.

Khao Lak is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park?

Khao Lak is a nice place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Khao Lak offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find night markets, souvenir shops, local tailors, and other places where you can grab essentials or pick up souvenirs from your holiday.

Mount Aspiring National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park More Beautiful?

Khao Lak and Mount Aspiring National Park both are comparable with their first-rate scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Khao Lak is one of the main draws. Stunning beaches, diverse marine life, and breathtaking natural landscapes make this a truly beautiful destination.

Many visitors also come to Mount Aspiring National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The stunning mountain scenery and pristine, rugged hikes make this a truly spectacular alpine setting.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Families?

Both Khao Lak and Mount Aspiring National Park are high quality to visit with kids.

Khao Lak is a very family-friendly place to visit. This series of islands is filled with outdoor adventures for the whole family. You can explore the undersea world with a mask or snorkel or get out on the water on a kayak. There are also turtle sanctuaries and beautiful beaches where you can pass the time.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Mount Aspiring National Park is very family-friendly. The park offers a stunning natural setting that will inspire a child's love of nature. There are a number of kid-friendly hikes in the park with some of the most popular being the Blue Pools Track, Routeburn Nature Walk, the Roaring Billy Falls Walk, and the Thunder Creek Falls Walk.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Couples?

Khao Lak is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Mount Aspiring National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for couples.

Khao Lak has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Underwater beauty, stunning beaches, outdoor adventures, and wildlife experiences all make these islands a world class honeymoon destination.

Mount Aspiring National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Filled with inspiring scenery and a breathtaking mountain setting, this park is perfect for couples who appreciate nature's beauty. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and striking views that will spark the romance in any relationship.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mount Aspiring National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. Also, Khao Lak is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Set in the beautiful Southern Alps, backpackers will love exploring the impressive mountain scenery and breathtaking views.

Many backpackers visit Khao Lak. Like most of Thailand, the backpacker amenities are abundant. You'll find plenty of hostels, fun activities, and affordable entertainment throughout the region.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Khao Lak is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Mount Aspiring National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Khao Lak has a few public transit options. Transportation comes in the form of tuk tuks, Songthaew (pick up trucks), taxis, and public buses. There are also VIP buses and minivans as well.

Public transit is mostly limited in Mount Aspiring National Park. It's possible to arrange transportation to the trailheads from Te Anau or Wanaka.

Is Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park a more walkable city?

Mount Aspiring National Park is a national park with good options for its walkability. However, Khao Lak is a area with minimal options for its high level of walkability.

Mount Aspiring National Park is somewhat walkable. There are day hikes as well as mult-day back country hikes through the park.

Khao Lak is generally not a very walkable area. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.

For even more information, also check out Is Khao Lak Worth Visiting? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mount Aspiring National Park or Khao Lak?

How long in Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

In either Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Khao Lak than Mount Aspiring National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Khao Lak, and 2-5 days is enough time in Mount Aspiring National Park .

Families should spend more time in Khao Lak than Mount Aspiring National Park . Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Khao Lak, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Khao Lak than Mount Aspiring National Park . You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Khao Lak that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Khao Lak than Mount Aspiring National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Khao Lak.

One day in Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The serene destination of Khao Lak offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. This area offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

The beautiful national park of Mount Aspiring National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Khao Lak. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mount Aspiring National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

Khao Lak is a fun place to experience. It's also a relaxing resort destination. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Anyone can find something fun to do here. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Khao Lak has to offer.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mount Aspiring National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Khao Lak or Mount Aspiring National Park ?

The relaxed area of Khao Lak offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. It offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. It's no surprise that beaches is why people visit. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Mount Aspiring National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Thailand, The Best Wildlife Tours to Thailand, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in New Zealand, and The Best 2-Week Tours in New Zealand.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Khao Lak and Mount Aspiring National Park , we can see that Khao Lak is more expensive. And not only is Mount Aspiring National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Khao Lak is in Asia and Mount Aspiring National Park is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Mount Aspiring National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mount Aspiring National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Khao Lak would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Khao Lak than you might in Mount Aspiring National Park .

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Khao Lak Expensive? and Is Mount Aspiring National Park Expensive?.