18 places of interest to visit in Ranong
Ranong is a province located in the southern part of Thailand, on the Andaman Sea coast. It is known for its hot springs, mangrove forests, and beautiful beaches, as well as its rich natural resources including rubber, cashew nuts, and fish. The province is also known for its production of fish sauce and shrimp paste. There are several tourist attractions in the province, including the hot springs, the Ranong Mangrove Forest, and the beautiful beaches along the coast. Additionally, the province is home to several national parks, including the Than Bok Khorani National Park, which is known for its waterfalls and limestone cliffs.
Raksa Warin Public Hot Spring
Raksa Warin Public Hot Spring is a natural hot spring destination that features three separate hot springs, known as the father’s well, mother’s well, and child’s well. Each of these wells boasts a temperature of around 65 degrees Celsius, providing visitors with warm and relaxing mineral water therapy. The hot spring area also includes a mineral bath where visitors can soak and unwind, as well as a free foot bath for additional relaxation. Additionally, the area surrounding the hot springs has been developed into a public park called “Raksa Warin,” which offers accommodation pavilions and hot baths for visitors to enjoy. This destination is perfect for those looking to relax and rejuvenate their body and mind with the healing properties of hot mineral water.
Ponrang Hot Spring
Pornrang Hot Spring is a natural hot spring located within the Ngao Waterfall National Park. The water is clear and odorless, free from sulfur and hydrogen sulfide. The hot springs have been landscaped and surrounded by various plants, offering visitors a chance to take a relaxing stroll. There are also facilities available such as foot baths, full body immersion pools, outdoor showers, toilets, relaxation pavilions, a parking lot, a restaurant and accommodation. The hot spring is perfect for those who want to take a mineral bath while being close to nature.
Phu Khao Ya
Phu Khao Ya is a mountain located in Mueang Ranong District. It is known for its grassy terrain that stretches from north to south and changes colors depending on the season. During the dry season, the mountain’s grass turns yellow, while it turns green during the rainy season. It is also known for its fog and rain during the fall, earning it the nickname “Two-Colored Grass Mountain.” Visitors can hike to the top of the mountain to see the surrounding scenery and take in the view from a high angle. The path is relatively flat and easy to walk on, and it connects to other peaks.
Wat Baan Ngao
Wat Baan Ngao, located in Ngao Sub-district, Mueang District of Ranong Province, is a prominent tourist destination. It is located near the Ranong Grass Mountain and boasts a two-storey ubosot, known as the “wide sky chapel.” The ubosot is surrounded by a large concrete courtyard with bars and four wide tetrahedral buildings in each corner. The ubosot houses the main Buddha image, “Luang Pho Dibuk,” which is a statue of the Buddha in the attitude of subduing Mara. It is officially known as “Phra Tipuka Buddha Maha Shakyamuni Sri Ranang,” meaning “The big tin Buddha image is the prosperity and dignity of Ranong.” The ubosot also features intricate carvings and patterns on its facade.
Wat Hat Som Paen
Wat Hat Som Paen is a Buddhist temple located on the same route as Raksa Warin Hot Spring in Phatthalung province. To reach the temple, one must travel straight for about 6 kilometers from the hot spring. Upon arriving at Wat Hat Som Paen, it is customary to enter the temple and pay homage to a revered monk who passed away at the temple. The atmosphere of Wat Hat Som Paen is peaceful and shaded, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a serene and tranquil environment. There is also a fish feeding area within the temple grounds where visitors can enjoy feeding the fish as a form of recreation.
Had Som Paen Reservoir
Hat Som Paen Reservoir is located near the Raksawarin Hot Spring and the Hat Som Paen Temple. It is a medium-sized reservoir with a water capacity of 10 million cubic meters, that serves as a source of water for agricultural, rubber, oil palm, and fruit plantations, as well as for tap water production for the local population. The reservoir offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular spot for tourists to take pictures and relax. During the rainy season, there may also be a chance to see mist floating along the surrounding mountains.
Ranong Canyon
Ranong Canyon is a unique and picturesque tourist destination that features a small, emerald green pond nestled within a valley. The area was once used as an old mining site, where water was injected to erode mineral soil from the mountain and collect in the pool below. This water was then pumped up and processed through physical methods to extract precious ore from the sand, resulting in the strange, indented appearance of the mountain. Viewing the canyon from the top, the water in the lake appears crystal clear and reflects the blue of the sky, while the surrounding trees are a vibrant azure green, resembling an emerald.
Tien Sue Ancient House
Tien Sue Ancient House, located in the Mueang Ranong District, is a historical residence that dates back over 150 years, built during the reign of King Rama V. It is considered one of the oldest homes in Ranong and serves as a valuable source of knowledge and insight into the history and culture of the area. The house has been preserved, including being featured in historical photographs, and serves as a unique living museum that tells the story of the early Chinese settlers in Ranong.
Rattanarangsan Palace (Replica)
Rattanarangsan Palace (Replica) is another historical tourist attraction in Ranong Province, built to honor the visits of three kings, King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), King Rama VI and King Prajadhipok (Rama VII). The palace is a replica of the original palace and features the bedrooms of King Rama V, the Queen and her children, and the writing room. Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture of the wooden castle, which is constructed entirely of teak and takhianthong wood. The palace offers an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of Ranong Province and see how the kings lived during their visits.
Residence of the Governor of Ranong
Residence of the Governor of Ranong, also known as Phraya Damrong Sutthi Mahisorn Phakdi or Mr. Kho Su Jiang, is a significant historical site in the province of Ranong. It was the residence of the first governor of the area and is now registered as an ancient place by the Fine Arts Department. The residence currently houses many descendants of the Na Ranong clan and some of the buildings have been renovated into single-storey structures for use as ancestral shrines and for traditional ancestral plaque worship.
Huai Bat Fresh Coffee Shop
Huai Bat Fresh Coffee Shop is a must-visit destination for travelers to Ranong. It is located along Highway No. 4, Chumphon-Ranong route, near Punyaban Waterfall and offers a chic and satisfying check-in point surrounded by fresh nature and lush greenery of the surrounding mountains. The shop is easy to find, as it is located before the waterfall if traveling from Ranong town and after the waterfall if traveling from Chumphon to Ranong province. The shop is also easy to spot as it is located in front of a bright pink minibus, a local car of Ranong.
Punyaban Waterfall
Punyaban Waterfall is a waterfall located in the province of Ranong, Thailand. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery, and visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool water. The waterfall is also a great spot for taking pictures and enjoying a picnic. Huai Bat Fresh Coffee Shop is located near the waterfall, which is another attraction that is popular with visitors. Overall, Punyaban Waterfall is a great destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some natural beauty.
Khao Fa Chi View Point
Khao Fa Chi View Point is a popular tourist spot in Bang Kaeo Subdistrict, La-Oun District, Ranong Province, known for its beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy the view of the setting sun over the Kra Buri River and the La-Wun River flowing into the Andaman Sea, with large and small islands visible on the Burmese side. The viewpoint is also one of the most beautiful sunset viewing spots in the province, particularly during the winter months of November to December. The last colors of the sky are particularly stunning and on some days, visitors may also be able to see the sea of mist.
Gong Valley
Gong Valley is a famous coffee growing area located in Kra Buri District, Ranong Province for over 40 years. It is known for its eco-tourism and homestay options under the name Kong Valley. The coffee beans are purchased directly from farmers and they set their own selling prices, which results in better quality coffee than the market. The distinctiveness of Gong Valley coffee is the use of ancient methods in the coffee-making process, from growing, harvesting, drying, maturing, and roasting by hand in small pans and hand-grinding. This preserves the unique aroma of Robusta and the taste and sweetness of the coffee beans, which makes Robusta coffee beans, which are often considered dark and bitter, have a mellow taste. This unique taste has made Gong Coffee famous and sold all over the world, and is a must-try for coffee lovers.
Wat Wari Banphot
Wat Wari Banphot is a temple located just 7 km from the city, taking less than half an hour to reach. It is situated on a hill and offers views of the surrounding area. The temple is home to the largest reclining Buddha image in the south, measuring 22 meters in length. Visitors can also admire the beauty of the golden pagoda named Mahathutiya Chedi Si Banphot. This temple is particularly significant to the Burmese people who live in Ranong and as such, Burmese monks and artisans came to assist in the construction of the pagoda, making it unique in having Burmese pagodas in a Thai temple.
Koh Phayam
Koh Phayam is a small island located in the Andaman Sea, off the coast of the province of Ranong in southern Thailand. The island is known for its pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors to the island can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, exploring the island’s many hiking trails and gardens, and observing the traditional way of life of the local villagers. One of the main attractions on the island is the natural stone arch, known as Ao Khao Kwai, which is a popular spot for swimming and taking photos. Additionally, the island’s west coast is known for its beautiful sunsets, making it a popular spot for romantic evenings. Despite its popularity, the island remains largely unspoiled and off the beaten path, making it a perfect destination for those looking for a more authentic and secluded tropical island experience.
Kam Archipelago
Kam Archipelago is an ideal destination for those looking for a remote and untouched tropical paradise. The five islands that make up the archipelago are Koh Kam, Koh Klang, Koh Talu, Koh Poda and Koh Thalu. Each island offers its own unique beauty and attractions, from pristine white sandy beaches to lush tropical forests and a wide variety of marine life.
Koh Kam is the largest of the five islands and is known for its beautiful coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island also has a small village where visitors can experience traditional Thai island life.
Koh Klang is the second-largest island and is known for its long white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and exotic birds.
Koh Talu is a small island with a beautiful reef and a variety of marine life. It is perfect for snorkeling and diving. The island is also known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Koh Poda is a small island that is popular for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The island is also known for its beautiful coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.
Koh Thalu is a small island known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wide variety of marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island also has a small village where visitors can experience traditional Thai island life.
Overall, the Kam Archipelago is a remote and untouched tropical paradise that offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from swimming and sunbathing on beautiful beaches to snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters and exploring lush tropical forests and traditional Thai island life.
Laem Son National Park
Laem Son National Park is located in the province of Ranong, in the southern part of Thailand. The park is known for its long stretch of beautiful sandy beaches and clear blue waters of the Andaman Sea. It is a popular destination for tourists looking for a relaxing and peaceful getaway. Visitors can enjoy activities such as taking a hike through the park’s lush tropical forests. The park also offers accommodation options for visitors, including comfortable bungalows and camping sites. In addition to the beach, the park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, elephants, and various bird species. The park’s Kam Archipelago, consists of five islands, is not well-developed and also a great place to explore. One of the highlights of a visit to Laem Son National Park is the opportunity to watch the sunset over the Andaman Sea, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Thailand.
Baan Rai I Arun
Baan Rai I Arun is a farm stay accommodation located in Ranong province. It is a place where visitors can experience the beauty of nature and the warmth of a home-like atmosphere. The accommodation is decorated with unique and cute designs, adding to the charm of the place. The staff at Baan Rai I Arun are known for their warm welcomes and friendly smiles, making visitors feel at home. The farm stay also offers delicious food for guests to enjoy. Overall, Baan Rai I Arun is a highly recommended place for those looking for a unique and comfortable experience surrounded by nature.
