Ratchaprapha Dam (Cheow Lan Lake) is located in the area of Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani Province. It is a world-class natural attraction with unique features due to its Karst Landscape, with limestone mountains rising beautifully above the emerald green water, earning it the nickname "Guilin of Thailand."

Originally named "Cheow Lan Dam," after its completion, His Majesty the King graciously bestowed a new name, "Ratchaprapha Dam," which means "Light of the Kingdom," making it the second multipurpose dam in the South.

Engineering characteristics and information:
This dam blocks the Klong Saeng River at Ban Cheow Lan, Khao Phang Subdistrict. Most of the area is adjacent to Khao Sok National Park. It is a rockfill dam with a clay core, 94 meters high, with a dam crest length of 761 meters, and 5 saddle dams.

The reservoir has a capacity of 5,638.8 million cubic meters, covering an area of 185 square kilometers, with an average annual inflow of 3,057 million cubic meters.

In terms of energy, it has 3 power generators with a capacity of 80,000 kilowatts each, with a total generating capacity of 240,000 kilowatts, providing an average annual power generation of approximately 554 million kilowatt-hours, which plays an important role in the stability of the southern power system.

Construction history:
Construction began on February 9, 1982, and was completed in September 1987. His Majesty the King, along with Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, inaugurated Ratchaprapha Dam and the hydroelectric power plant on Wednesday, September 30, 1987.

It is also a commemorative project in celebration of the auspicious occasion of the 5th cycle birthday anniversary in 1987 and the Royal Rachamangala Pisek ceremony in 1988.

Natural architecture:
The construction of the dam transformed a large forest area into a vast freshwater lake, surrounded by strangely shaped limestone mountains, creating a unique and beautiful landscape, especially the important landmark, Khao Sam Kler.

Recreation:
The charm here is relaxing on the "floating rafts," which offer a variety of options, from traditional to luxury rafts. Tourists can enjoy a Slow Life style, waking up to admire the mist, boating, or kayaking in the tranquil waters.

Popular activities:

• Longtail boat trip to see Khao Sam Kler and the limestone mountains
• Kayaking to experience the emerald waters
• Explore natural caves such as Coral Cave, Nam Ta Lu Cave, Prakaipetch Cave
• Viewpoint at the dam crest, a high-angle view of the vast reservoir

Complete ecology:
The area around the dam is home to rare wildlife such as hornbills, spectacled langurs, gibbons, and various wild animals. The sound of gibbons in the morning amidst the thin mist is a unique charm of this place.

Past and present travel:
In the past, it was possible to travel through Phanom District, but due to the complexity and danger of the route, it is now more popular to travel through Ban Ta Khun District, which is more convenient and safer.

Importance of the project:
Ratchaprapha Dam is an important water resource development project in the South, which helps to create energy security, water management, and economic and social development of the country.

Seasonal atmosphere:

• November – April: Clear skies, beautiful light, clear water, suitable for photography
• May – October: Lush green nature, mist floating along the mountains, romantic atmosphere

Ratchaprapha Dam is both an important source of energy and a world-class tourist destination that combines nature, history, and lifestyle perfectly.

• By car: From Surat Thani city, take Highway 401 towards Ban Ta Khun District. Turn right into the dam entrance according to the signs (about 13 km to the pier).

• By public transport: There is a van from Surat Thani Airport and the city center that goes directly to Cheow Lan Municipal Pier.

• Disconnect from the online world: Phone signals may not be available in some areas, suitable for relaxing with nature.

• Dry Bag: Should bring a waterproof bag (Dry Bag) for important equipment.

• Respect nature: Do not feed wild animals and help keep the area clean.

• Recommended photo spots: Khao Sam Kler (morning) and the dam crest (evening).

• Book in advance: Should book rafts and boats before traveling, especially on holidays.

Approximate service fees:

• National park entrance fee: Adult 40 baht / Child 20 baht

• Boat rental fee: 1,500 – 3,500 baht (depending on distance and program)

• Raft accommodation fee: 500 – 3,000+ baht/person/night

Opening – closing hours:

• Tourist pier: 06:00 – 17:00

• Dam crest for viewing: 06:00 – 18:00