Ranong is a small border town and a major trading port in Southern Thailand. With rains that last for more than seven months, this is one of the country’s wettest towns. Although it is characterized by forests and lush agricultural lands, it is not short of numerous scenic islands that can be found off the coastline. It’s not a big name in the country’s top travel destination, but Ranong has a variety of attractions and activities that will strike the right chords for anyone interested in getting the most from Thailand’s lesser-traveled southern destinations. Check out our list of the best things to do in Ranong, Thailand.
1. Explore the scenic Ranong Canyon
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Winding roads, steep cliffs, and a serene emerald lake are some of the scenes you can expect to find at Ranong Canyon. The canyon used to be a mine but has currently turned into a gorgeous emerald lake with a variety of fish. It’s a great destination for mild outdoor adventure, picnic, and relaxation. The drive up to the mountain features beautiful sceneries, including the gorgeous Phoemphon River that gently winds through the villages down to the sea.
Ranong Canyon
Address: Hat Som Paen, Mueang Ranong District, Ranong 85000, Thailand
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
2. Explore the unique flora and fauna at Namtok Ngao National Park
Namtok Ngao National Park is just a few minutes’ drive from the city center. While it’s very famous for its large waterfall, this is not the only reason why you should make a trip to this park. Apart from the waterfalls, you can follow the well-marked trails that will take you down through to the base of the cascades. Along the way, you will stumble upon an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Also, don’t forget to enjoy the sweeping views of the surrounding regions.
Namtok Ngao National Park
Address: Moo 1, 76/5 Ngao, Mueang Ranong District, Ranong 85000, Thailand
Opening hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: From 3 USD
3. Soak in the beauty of Phu Khao Ya
Phu Khao Ya, also known as the Grass Hill, is a gorgeous destination located just a few kilometers from the town center. It also a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The hill will particularly appeal to nature buffs or those in need of a place where they can ease all the troubles away. The place is entirely covered by a thick blanket of vegetation, which is either brown or green depending on the season.
Phu Khao Ya
Address: Mueang Ranong District, Ranong 85000, Thailand
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
4. Join a tour of Ranong Governor's Residence
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
The residence of the governor of Ranong is another historic piece of gem that is worth visiting whenever you are in town. The residence was constructed around 1877, making it one of the oldest surviving colonial structures in the region. Some of the notable attractions you will find here include Na Ranong’s Family Ancestors’ Shrine as well as a stone that was engraved using King Rama V’s sword. This is also a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the leadership and governance of the region.
Ranong Governor's Residence
Address: Khao Niwet, Mueang Ranong District, Ranong 85000, Thailand
5. Learn more about the fifth king of Thailand at Rattanarangsan Palace
Rattanarangsan Palace was constructed as the official residence of the fifth king of Thailand, Rama V. The palace has undergone a number of renovations, including the throne with the town hall. The main attraction here is the small museum that attempts to recreate the bedrooms, recreational areas, and the main hall to try and depict the lifestyle of the royalties that once used the residence as home.
Rattanarangsan Palace
Address: Khao Niwet, Mueang Ranong District, Ranong 85000, Thailand
Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 8:30am - 4:30pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
Price: 3 USD
6. Explore the colorful Wat Suwan Khiri Ket Temple
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Thailand is predominantly a Buddhist country, and it is home to some of the most amazing temples in Asia. Wat Suwan Khiri Ket Temple is regarded as one of the most colorful temples in Thailand. It features an elegant painting in gold with typical Buddha-related statues all around. It has a conspicuous dome that resembles an inverted bell which really makes it stand out in the entire region. It is adjacent to the night market, and most of the visits to this temple will always be together with a visit to the market.
Wat Suwan Khiri Ket Temple
Address: 3 83100 502/3 Patak Rd, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
7. Refresh yourself at Punyaban Waterfall
Punyaban Waterfall boasts great access from Ranong, and it is another paradise that every outdoor enthusiast should consider visiting. The waterfall is about 15 m (49 ft) high, and the fascinating thing about it is not the height, but the cleanliness of the water. The fall’s water is cold and crystal clear, making it exceedingly attempting for someone to jump in for a refreshing dip to help you cool off from the heat. You will be pleased to learn that accessing the fall doesn’t require any hiking because it is located just by the roadside.
Punyaban Waterfall
Address: Sai Daeng, Mueang Ranong District, Ranong 85130, Thailand
Opening hours: 8:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
8. Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Ao Khao Kwai
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you want to be surrounded by lush green fields, then you have every reason to check out Ao Khao Kwai. This is a luscious jungle with amazing rock reefs that form a beautiful meeting point between the forest and the sea. It is at Ao Khao Kwai where we find Buffalo Bay with its incredibly lovely swimming spots that are worth exploring when the tides are low.
Ao Khao Kwai
Address: Ko Phayam, Mueang Ranong District, Ranong, Thailand
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
9. Tap into the healing waters of PornRang Hot Spring
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
PornRang Hot Spring is in proximity to Ngao National Park. If you are not pressed for time, you could visit them on the same day. It is believed that the hot springs have healing powers, and this explains why it is a popular joint for many locals and tourists who have various skin conditions and other ailments. The spring is engulfed in breathtaking natural scenery. It is also properly maintained such that there are separate pools for men and women. Remember to carry your own towels.
PornRang Hot Spring
Address: Bang Rin, Mueang Ranong District, Ranong 85000, Thailand
Opening hours: 8am - 6pm (daily)
Price: Free
10. Bask in the sun at Aow Yai Beach
Aow Yai Beach is reputed as one of the nicest and cleanest beaches in Thailand. Strolling its shores will make you think that you are on one of the beaches in Tulum, Mexico—soft white sands, cool breeze, and breathtaking views all around. It is a popular beach for those looking for a great place to surf or swim. There are plenty of restaurants and shops along the way where you can always get some refreshments once you are done having fun in the sun, sand, and sea.
Aow Yai Beach
Address: Ranong, Thailand
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Incredible fun awaits you in Ranong
The border town of Ranong has plenty of attractions and experiences that will be enjoyed by all kinds of tourists. Use the above list of the best things to do in Ranong, Thailand, for a memorable experience during your visit.
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