Ranong is capital of the province of the same name and can be found in the southwest of Thailand near the Andaman coast and the Burmese border. People come here for a visa run and to sample the nearby diving.
Ranong has a different feel than the average Thai town, with its significant ethnic Chinese and Burmese populations. Even road signs are in Chinese and Burmese in addition to Thai. Ruangrat Road is the main strip in town, and the only one for that matter. There are a couple of markets here along with a bit of nightlife.
The main attraction in Ranong is the nearby hot springs, while the province at large contains lovely beaches, islands, mountains, and forests. To get to Myanmar (Burma) for a visa run, head to Saphan Pla, from where boats also go to Ko Phayam and Ranong’s Ko Chang (not to be confused with Ko Chang in Rayong, near Trat). The best diving is within the Mergui Archipelago.
Getting There & Away
AirAsia flies to Ranong Airport from Bangkok in about an hour, and buses come in from the southern terminal in Bangkok via Surat Thani. The nearest train station is in Chumphon, a few hours away by bus.
Things to Do
Ranong Attractions
- Ranong Mineral Hot Springs
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These are located just out of town, where visitors can relax and bathe in a hot pool. mineral baths can be had at the nearby jansom thara ranong hotel.
- Scuba diving
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At burma banks and black rock in the mergui archipelago.
- Punyaban Waterfall
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10 minutes from ranong, this three-tier waterfall resides in a lovely forest setting.