Almost 600 kms from Bangkok, Ranong
is the first of Thailand's southern provinces that is located on
the
Andaman sea. Largely undiscovered by the main tourism community,
Ranong is the perfect getaway. Ranong lies close to the Burmese
(Myanmar) border and is very close to Myanmar's Victoria Point.
Why does Victoria Point rate a mention in a story about
Thailand' Ranong? It's got gambling baby, a very popular casino.
However Ranong is in itself well worth a visit. Eighty percent
forest and more than 67% mountains mean that Ranong has it all.
Mountains, forest and the sparkling Andaman. Island hopping and
snorkeling and scuba diving are popular pastimes. The best time
to visit Ranong is from November to May as the province gets
some of the longest and heaviest rainy seasons in Thailand.
But
don't let that put you off. During Monsoon season the mountains
and forest are nothing short of spectacular. font>
Yep, but worth it. Phuket is the most used port of embarkation
with ferries leaving often from Phuket via Phi Phi Island to Koh Lanta.
As well it is convenient to drive from Phuket via Phang Na and Krabi.
There is at least one VIP service on Lanta Island that could spare you
a lot of inconvenience in hassles such as humping your luggage and
other travel-related pains.
Ranong Attractions:
Hot Springs and Raksawarin
Arboretum are near Wat Tapotharam,
two kilometres east of Ranong township. The temperature of the
water is about 65 degrees celcius. The deep shaded forest
surrounding the hot spring is very lovely and is maintained an
arboretum named "Raksawarin" by the Municipality having rest
pavilions and bathrooms. Nam
Tok Punyaban
Another name of this waterfall
is "Nam Tok Set Takuat" located on Kra Buri - Ranong
Road, 15 kms. before Ranong township area. The waterfall itself
cascades from a high cliff and makes a refreshing rest stop for
motorist touring along the south. Nam
Tok Ngao
This
waterfall is located 12 kms. south of Ranong township area where
the whole stream cascades from a high mountain and can be seen
afar. The beautiful scenery of mountains and pastures is visible
from the resting area near the fall. Nam Tok Ngao is in the area
of Khlang Phrao National Park. More Ranong
information
