We had decided to book our trips through Eco Khao Lak Adventure. Their motto is small group and more time and that ws what we got. After a visit to the Takua Pa markets we travelled to the Monkey Temple. Feeding monkeys isn't really my thing but the history of the cavern and the scuptures were worth listening to. Then it was onto bamboo rafting. I had expectations but this was above and beyond. The weather was wet (That's mildly speaking) and some of our group were not equipped for the short trek to the rafts along boggy paths that sucked their thongs off. Tevs and Keens sandals are supreme for all weather. Well.... this river was in major flood. Rushing muddy waters faced us but our Raftsmen were great. The rafts about 5 metres long seated two and the adventure into Conan Doyle's "Lost World" began. Silently we paddled down the river beneath towering limestone monoliths and cliffs. High above soared birds and butterflies, someone spotted a monkey, a snake in a tree we passed and a snake in the water. The tour company were true to their name..... they gave us more time. After about 30 minutes we pulled into shore to follow a path up to a cave where the raftsmen made us tea boiling water in bamboo sections. Then back onto the river for another 30 minutes. The scenery left you gobsmacked.... the quietness, punctuated by bird sounds was defeaning and beautiful. To come back again and spend a three day wilderness trip with this company would be well worth it.
We pulled into shore and drove a short distant to lunch.... a traditional meal... beautiful food. Then to meet my nemesis.... riding an elephant. Wow! Up and down hill we went in torrential rain for about an hour but the mahoots were brilliant.... Helen experienced riding on the elephant itself. I wish I had been able to sort out the photo problem to show it all to you.... perhaps once I get home I'll update with photos.
This was a tremendous day.... and then a traditional coffee and snacks stop on the way home.
Hard to wipe the grins off our faces but more is to come, I assure you, including that "kayaking" Sarah, at Hong Island, leaving tomorrow morning at 5.30 am