Coral cave
Nestled in the forested hills of Tambon Khao Phang in Surat Thani province, Coral Cave — known locally as Tham Pakarang — is a natural limestone cave that holds both geological and cultural significance. The cave earns its place in the Temples and Culture category through its role as a site of local reverence, with Buddhist shrines and sacred formations found within its chambers alongside the coral-like calcite structures that give it its name. The interplay of light, rock, and religious iconography creates an atmosphere that is quietly contemplative and visually striking. Visitors can expect to explore cave chambers filled with naturally formed stalactites and stalagmites, many of which resemble coral — a feature that draws both nature enthusiasts and those with an interest in Thai spiritual traditions. The surrounding landscape adds to the experience, with lush greenery typical of this part of southern Thailand framing the entrance. Good to know: The cave is open every day of the week from 06:00 to 18:00, making morning visits a practical choice to avoid the midday heat and enjoy cooler temperatures inside. Appropriate footwear with grip is advisable, as cave surfaces can be uneven and slippery. The site is located in a relatively rural area of Surat Thani province, so arranging private transport or joining a guided tour from Khao Lak is recommended. More information is available at the Khao Sok Travel website linked to this listing.
Book tours & tickets in Khao Lak
Day trips, skip-the-line entry, and guided experiences around Coral cave — book ahead and skip the on-the-ground markup.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Coral cave, round out your day in Khao Lak with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Khao Lak

Mu Ko Similan National Park
A remote national park archipelago off Phuket's coast, famed for turquoise waters, white sand, and world-class diving.

Bang Niang Market
A popular open-air night market in Khao Lak offering local street food, handicrafts, and a relaxed evening atmosphere.

Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park protects one of the world's oldest rainforests — older than the Amazon — draped over dramatic limestone karsts in southern Thailand between Phuket and Surat Thani.

JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa
Upscale beachfront resort in Khao Lak offering spacious rooms, villas, a lagoon pool, and a full-service spa.
Coral cave: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Coral cave worth visiting?
Coral cave holds a 4.4★ rating from 199 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Khao Lak.
What are the opening hours of Coral cave?
Coral cave is typically open 06:00-18:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Coral cave?
The best months to visit Khao Lak are November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – February (strong European family season) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed).
Where is Coral cave located?
Coral cave is at 4P7F+PG4 Ha Roi Rai, Tambon Khao Phang, Amphoe Ban Ta Khun, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84230, Thailand, in Khao Lak. Getting around Khao Lak: Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway); Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road).
Location Info
4P7F+PG4 Ha Roi Rai, Tambon Khao Phang, Amphoe Ban Ta Khun, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84230, Thailandwww.khaosoktravel.com/pakarangcaveVisitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15)
Avoid: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February (strong European family season)
Getting there
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is 60–75 minutes south by taxi or shared minivan (฿700–1,500). Buses from Bangkok's Southern Terminal reach Khao Lak town in 10–12 hours; most stop on request along the resort strip.
Getting around
- •Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway)
- •Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road)
- •Hotel shuttles and taxis — no Grab coverage to speak of
- •Tour transfers to Khao Sok and the Similan piers are hotel-pickup based
Where to stay near Coral cave
Find hotels in Khao Lak on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok's most sacred temple sits within the Grand Palace complex, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.

Doi Suthep Temple
A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.

The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A towering all-wood monument in Pattaya, hand-carved without nails and still under construction after decades.
Where to stay near Coral cave
Find hotels in Khao Lak on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April (Similan season Oct 15 – May 15)
Avoid: May – October (rough seas, Similans closed)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
24°C – 33°C(75°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February (strong European family season)
Getting there
Phuket International Airport (HKT) is 60–75 minutes south by taxi or shared minivan (฿700–1,500). Buses from Bangkok's Southern Terminal reach Khao Lak town in 10–12 hours; most stop on request along the resort strip.
Getting around
- •Songthaews along the main coastal road (Phetkasem highway)
- •Motorbike rental (฿250–300/day; the resort areas string along one road)
- •Hotel shuttles and taxis — no Grab coverage to speak of
- •Tour transfers to Khao Sok and the Similan piers are hotel-pickup based