Thailand: The karst limestone peaks of Khao Sok National Park, Surat Thani Province

Khao Sok National Park forms the largest and most dramatic tract of virgin forest in southern Thailand. This 160 million year old rainforest is some of the oldest in the world. The climate in the area has been relatively unaffected by past ice ages, since the landmass is relatively small and there are seas on both sides Elephants, tigers, bears, boars, tapirs gibbons and monkeys live in the park, along with more than 300 species of birds, including rare hornbills and argus pheasants. Sightings of the larger animals are usually at night, and animal tracks are regularly seen along the park’s many marked trails The park also contains a wide range of flora, including the rare Rafflesia, the largest flower in the world which can measure 80 cm (31 inches) across Khao Sok is celebrated for its karst limestone peaks. In most of the region, ground level averages 200 m (650 feet) above sea level, with the average mountain heights around twice this at 400 m (1280 feet). The tallest peak in the national park reaches 960 m (3,150 feet) in height.