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Punyaban Waterfall (or Namtok Punyaban), located at Ranong, Thailand, is a hideaway haven where one may feast his soul with the beauty of nature. Surrounded by thick tropical forests, this cascading waterfall becomes a beautiful sport for adventure and relaxation.
The soothing atmospheric environment from the gentle gurgling sound of rippling water develops, hence being an excellent place for picnic trips and relaxation amidst tranquility. Therefore, Punyaba Waterfall is a “must-see” destination that you should pay a visit once in life.
Punyaban Waterfall or Namtok Punyaban. (Source: Freepik)
Punyaban Waterfall previously was known to the locals as the Settakot Waterfall. The water does fall all over the year. It is located at Hwy No. 4 or Phetkasem Road, from Chumphon to Ranong town at km 597, 3 km from the Lam Nam Kra Buri National Park Office.
During the rainy season, the volume of the waterfall is considerably higher in Punyaban Waterfall. It originates from a small brook in La-un National Reserved Forest and Ratchakrut Forest.
A very beautiful waterfall, it falls through three waterfall levels, comprising Level 1 Punyaban, Level 2 Ton Mai Phai, and Level 3 Ton Ton Fern. From Level 1 to Level 3, it is approximately 300 kilometres long.
Thus, a pathway has been built for visiting tourists to see its origin and rainforest ecosystem. The tourists can stopover and take a rest.
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The main reason anyone would want to visit Punyaban Waterfall would be to have a refreshing swim. In fact, at the bottom of the waterfall, there are three pools visitors could engage in cooling themselves off, especially during the hottest time of the year.
The volume of water changes with seasons. To be specific, it would have gone low by late November.
Highlights at Punyaban Waterfall. (Source: Shutterstock)
Despite its natural charm, the waterfall has been criticized for its two-tier pricing system, which some visitors find off-putting. The entrance fee for foreigners is typically 100 baht, while locals are charged 20 baht. However, some visitors have reported being allowed in for the local price upon showing a Thai driving license.
This area around the waterfall has also gotten quite a bit of roadwork in recent times, getting in the way for some tourists, though the falls can still be seen pretty well across the bridge or by working your way to the right.
The Punyaban Waterfall also prohibits the selling and consumption of alcohol - another ruling simultaneously made when the entrance fee was introduced. Because of this, it still is very popular-really popular during weekends and public holidays.
It is also a popular site among locals and thus can get very crowded at times.
Nearby, visitors can find Mr. Ot's restaurant, a short walk away from the waterfall. The owner, who used to be a chef in Melbourne, is known for his excellent food and cheap beer.
Further down the road, there's a massive Teak Tree, known as the Big Tree, where mini markets are set up on either side of the road. Both places offer a pleasant experience, although some visitors have expressed a preference for the market closest to the Big Tree.
Highlights at Punyaban Waterfall. (Source: Shutterstock)
Punyaban Waterfall is a tiered cascade composed of water, which falls soothingly on big granite stones and is surrounded by a green forest. The surroundings are quite picturesque, in that you find a mix of greenery and the soothing sound of the water, thus creating a quite peaceful environment.
The main fall is about 20 meters high and offers stunning views and many spots for photography.
The surrounding area of Punyaban Waterfall is a very biodiverse region: in the dense forest, besides the different bird life, there also exist small mammals and tropical plants.
Nature lovers will enjoy observing and taking pictures of the wildlife in this area.
The rainy period from June to October is the best visited time for those who want to see the vibrant nature of this destination. It is when the volume of water reaches its fullest and creates a great cascade. However, this waterfall is an all-year beauty.
For a more serene experience, visit early in the morning or during the week; weekends and holidays attract more people.
Punyaban Waterfall is situated right by Highway 4, also known as Phetkasem Road, which serves to connect Ranong and the surrounding provinces of Chumphon and Phang Nga.
How to get to Punyaban Waterfall. (Source: Freepik)
In conclusion, the Punyaban Waterfall may not be the most spectacular waterfall in Thailand, but it offers a nice spot for a picnic and a chance to soak away your worries. Its accessibility and the opportunity for a refreshing swim make it a worthwhile stop. Pack your stuff and join Asia King Travel to visit this majestic destination now.
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