Khao Lak is an idyllic area known for the Beach and Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. So, whether you're scuba diving with your friends, relaxing on the beaches, or taking in the beauty, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip to Khao Lak, all while staying within budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Khao Lak?
You should plan to spend around $144 (฿4,936) per day on your vacation in Khao Lak. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $56 (฿1,936) on meals
- $56 (฿1,917) on local transportation
- $109 (฿3,732) on hotels
A one week trip to Khao Lak for two people costs, on average, $2,015 (฿69,104). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$1,008
฿34,552
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$2,015
฿69,104
-
One Month
Per person
$4,318
฿148,080
-
One Week
For a couple
$2,015
฿69,104
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$4,030
฿138,208
-
One Month
For a couple
$8,636
฿296,160
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Khao Lak cost?
A one week trip to Khao Lak usually costs around $1,008 (฿34,552) for one person and $2,015 (฿69,104) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Khao Lak on average costs around $2,015 (฿69,104) for one person and $4,030 (฿138,208) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Khao Lak will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Khao Lak on average costs around $4,318 (฿148,080) for one person and $8,636 (฿296,160) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Is Khao Lak expensive to visit?
Khao Lak is a terrific area that brings in many travelers, showcasing a range of travel styles and spending choices. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Khao Lak can become quite costly if you let it, but there are ways to save money, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.
On average, budget travelers spend $65 (฿2,145) per day, mid-range travelers spend $149 (฿4,936) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $291 (฿9,634) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Khao Lak.
Within Asia, Khao Lak is a somewhat more expensive destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Asia for its travel costs. While some cities in the region are more expensive, Khao Lak is generally more expensive than most.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Khao Lak Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Khao Lak?
The average Khao Lak trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Khao Lak travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Khao Lak cost?
Khao Lak on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$23
(฿802)
|
$54
(฿1,866)
|
$110
(฿3,768)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$24
(฿839)
|
$56
(฿1,917)
|
$107
(฿3,664)
|
|
Food 2
|
$25
(฿847)
|
$56
(฿1,936)
|
$108
(฿3,700)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$9
(฿306)
|
$20
(฿700)
|
$39
(฿1,338)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$3-9
(฿107-322)
|
$7-21
(฿245-735)
|
$14-41
(฿468-1,405)
|
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your travel budget. While many people assume they can travel to Khao Lak without spending much money, the reality is that most people are not comfortable traveling on an extremely low "shoestring" budget. Consider what you really enjoy doing when you are on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Do you like to experience all of the activities, museums, and sights? Is dining out at delicious restaurants important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget and itinerary.
What is a budget traveler, anyway?
Although you may consider yourself a budget traveler, unless you're ready to cut out many creature comforts, you'll likely spend much more than the $65 per day that young budget travelers often get by on.
For backpackers, this tight budget typically involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest eateries or fast food joints, using public transportation, and sticking to free attractions.
Fortunately, Khao Lak has plenty of hostels such as DKaYa Hostel and G2S Dive Hostel. At hostels like these, you can find cheap accommodation in a dorm as well as a social atmosphere, but with very little amenities.
Are You Considered an Average Traveler?
If you're traveling for leisure as a couple or family, you'll likely opt for a mid-range hotel, dine at trendy restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. Most visitors to Khao Lak will want to visit the Beach or Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park. Remember, most activities come at a cost. Hence, it's realistic to anticipate your daily budget will be about $149 per person, per day.
Khao Lak offers a fantastic variety of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share your hotel with a partner, friend, or your children, which can help save money. Families should focus on hotels and restaurants that cater to kids. Chongfah Beach Resort Khaolak is an excellent choice, while Khaolak Paradise Resort is also a great option. To find more accommodations that are family and couple-friendly, check our hotel guide for Khao Lak.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're looking for an all-encompassing vacation filled with luxurious amenities and higher-level service, prepare your budget for around $291 per day. Selecting nicer hotels, savoring meals at award-winning establishments, indulging in lavish adventures, and traveling around the area with taxis or private drivers will call for a luxury budget. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as From Khao Lak : Phi Phi Islands Adventure Day Trip with Lunch - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Khao Lak
The prices for hotels in Khao Lak can really vary, especially during peak travel season. Off-season, the average hotel room costs $36, while during peak winter season, that average price jumps to around $67. With budget accommodations starting at $17 and luxury hotels peaking at $146, there are options for every traveler. Dorm-style hostels are often the cheapest. Traveling during the low season or booking early can help you save.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Khao Lak for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $109 (฿3,732). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $54 (฿1,866) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Khao Lak? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Khao Lak include:
- Chongfah Beach Resort Khaolak starting at $53
- Khaolak Paradise Resort starting at $50
- X2 Khao Lak Anda Mani Resort starting at $149
- La Flora Resort & Spa Khao Lak starting at $44
- Ramada Resort by Wyndham Khao Lak starting at $60
You can save money on accommodation by staying outside the area in Khao Lak thanks to a good public transit system, though your transportation costs and time spent commuting may rise.
Khao Lak is a very family friendly area. If you're traveling with kids, you'll likely want to find an apartment or accommodation with more space.
In this area, you'll have a variety of resorts to select from. You might find accommodations that include meals, or at least breakfast, with many having onsite dining.
Many visitors spend up to a week in Khao Lak. If you're going to be in town for a long time, you may want to find a vacation rental with a kitchen. This will let you prepare at least some of your own meals.
Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than winter, will allow you to find cheaper accommodation and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Khao Lak
Khao Lak has a good public transit system that reaches some of the major sights. 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. If you want to save money and get around quickly, the public transit is the way to go if it's conveniently located to where you're going. Also, you'll find taxis and rideshare services around town.
Unfortunately, you'll find that the bulk of the area is not very walkable. While there are areas where you can walk, the region isn't particularly walkable.
Public Transit: 
(good)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $56 (฿1,917) per person, per day, on local transportation in Khao Lak. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Khao Lak is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$56
฿1,917
A few of the typical transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Premium Similan Island Day Trip with lunch and transfer pick up for $105 details
- Khao Lak any hotel to Koh Lanta any hotel Private transfer for $186 details
- 2-Hour Guided Eco-Tour & Transfer to Khaolak Elephant Sanctuary for $69 details
How much does it cost to go to Khao Lak? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Khao Lak will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Khao Lak
The food scene in Khao Lak is solid, but it's not usually the main tourist attraction. However, there are some charming eateries in the area that you should check out. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Khao Lak can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Khao Lak is $56 (฿1,936) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$56
฿1,936
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Khao Lak is around $58 (฿1936) per person, with previous travelers spending from $26 to $112. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Khao Lak are as follows:
- Breakfast: $6 to $18
- Lunch: $9 to $23
- Dinner: $18 to $41
- Coffee: $5
- Fast Food or Street Food: $9
When dining out with children, prioritize restaurants with a kids' menu. This can help you save a fair amount of money, as those options are typically less expensive. Some eateries might not showcase kids' meals on their menus, so it's a good idea to check with the waiter.
Some hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, while others add it as an extra charge. The quality and price of breakfast can vary greatly depending on the hotel. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you need to set aside additional funds. The hotel's buffet may be worth it, or you might consider visiting a local bakery or cafe for a more budget-friendly option.
Enjoying the scenery while saving money is easy with a picnic. Head to a local grocery store or market, pick up some fresh food, and find a charming park or picturesque location for your meal.
Pack a water bottle to avoid buying drinks on the go. Plus, it's beneficial for the planet.
If you're going to take a tour, make sure you understand which meals are included. You could end up paying for some food yourself, which might affect your budget.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Khao Lak, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Riverside Thai Cooking Half Day Class for $61 details
- Riverside Thai Cooking Class in Khao Lak with Market Tour for $56 details
- Khaolak Elephant Sanctuary, Cooking Class and Waterfall Tour for $117 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Khao Lak
It's not surprising that visitors come to Khao Lak, as it offers beaches, romance, resorts, and scuba diving & snorkeling.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Khao Lak typically cost an average of $20 (฿700) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$20
฿700
A few of the most popular sights are:
- The Beach (Free)
- Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park for ฿100
Each region has its own stunning sights to see in Khao Lak. In the south, for example, is the Lampi Waterfall. Located just outside of the city this waterfall is best seen during the morning when the sun rises and shines through the mist. While you're there, take a dip and cool off.
In Bang La On is the Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park. Take a stroll along these trails and find the peace and tranquility that makes this area of Thailand famous.
Bang Niang is home to another stunning waterfall – the Chong Fah Waterfall. Like Lampi, this one is a great view and an even greater dip on a hot day.
Travel just a bit inland and you'll find Police Boat 813. This was one of two police boats guarding Khun Phum Jensen, son of former Royal Princess Ubol Ratana when the tsunami hit in 2004. He was jet skiing as the wave crashed in killing him and the crew of one sunken police boat. Police Boat 813 was swept inland and remains in the spot where it landed as a memorial to those lost.
And all the way to the north you'll find the Khao Sok National Park. Here you can trek through the jungle on your feet, or on the back of a friendly elephant. Visit the waterfalls, enjoy a canoe ride down the river and enjoy the natural history displays set by the park headquarters. It makes for a lovely day out.
Scuba Diving & Snorkeling:
Many travelers consider scuba diving in Khao Lak to be a must-do activity. 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.
Beaches:
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Plenty of travelers choose Khao Lak as their beach retreat. 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.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Khao Lak. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Rafting and ATV Adventure in Phangnga for $111 details
- Thailand Nature & Culture Tour with Lunch for $87 details
- Khao Lak : Full-Day Temple Tour Including Dragon Cave for $107 details
Nightlife Budget in Khao Lak
Though Khao Lak has some nightlife options, it's relatively quieter compared to other more popular cities. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $14 (฿490) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Khao Lak per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$14
฿490
Enjoying the nightlife is always a highlight, but cutting back on drinks can really help you save money on your travels.
Drinking at night can be fun, but make sure you're aware of your surroundings. You could attract pickpockets, so it's best to stick with people you trust and stay in a group.
Traveling in Khao Lak
The beach at Khao Lak, Thailand
Resiliency and relaxation. Those are the two words used to describe one of Thailand's most breathtaking cities. Khao Lak is located in southern Thailand, and when the tsunami of 2004 hit, this area saw the most damage. With more than 4,000 fatalities, 3,000 still unaccounted for and enormous structural damages, many thought Khao Lak would not be able to bounce back. They have proved everyone wrong with a strong and impressive recovery. Now it has returned to its status of vacation hotspot. Unlike neighboring Phuket, though, the resorts in Khao Lak are designed for families and some peace and quiet.
Neighborhoods & Around
Thanks to the early settlers of this region, it is essentially laid out in population centers along side one another. From the south to the north they are known as Bang La On, Bang Niang, and Khuk Khuk. Each region has its own hotels, resorts and businesses.
Bang La On is the most popular region for tourists. The sidewalks easily lead you down rows and rows of shops. If you are taking any sort of public transportation and ask to go to "Khao Lak," you'll likely be dropped off in Bang La On. Bang Niang is just north of Bang La On, and is quieter and less touristy – except at night. Bang Niang is home to several bars that create the area's most alluring nightlife. Just north of Bang Niang is Khuk Khuk. This is where the locals live and work. Head down there to get a real view of the local Thai culture and lifestyle.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
It's such a beautiful place and everything is pretty cheap. We found so many great restaurants that were affordable, and our hotel was nice but not expensive either.