Ranong

Ranong is a province located in the southern part of Thailand, bordering Myanmar with the Kraburi River as the natural boundary dividing the two countries. To the south, Ranong borders the Gulf of Thailand, one of the largest gulfs in the Southeast Asia region.

Ranong has diverse terrain, from low coastal land to high mountain ranges. The northern part of the province is covered by tropical forests, while the coastal beaches are famous for their white sand and clear blue water.

With rivers, streams, and old-growth forests, Ranong is one of the most environmentally rich areas in Thailand. Natural hot springs are also an important geographic feature of this province.

It is one of the least developed provinces in Thailand, but it possesses unique natural beauty and culture.

Seaside in Ranong province

Read more: Top 10 must-try dishes from Thailand

Weather

Ranong experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by distinct rainy and dry seasons.

- Rainy Season (May - October): The rainy season in Ranong typically starts from May and lasts until around October. During this time, Ranong often encounters heavy rainfall and high humidity. The rains are often prolonged and intense, facilitating the lush growth of tropical forests and vegetation. Temperatures during the rainy season usually range from 24°C to 32°C.

The rainy season is characterized by lush growth in the tropical forests and vegetation of Ranong. This is also the time when natural hot springs in Ranong become more appealing, as the temperatures are relatively cool compared to the dry season, and the surrounding landscape is lush with clouds and greenery. However, it's important to be aware of the risk of heavy flooding and rainfall during this time.

- Dry Season (November - April): The dry season begins from November and lasts until April of the following year. During this period, Ranong usually experiences dry and sunny weather. Humidity decreases, and rainfall is less compared to the rainy season, although sporadic showers may still occur. Temperatures during the dry season typically range from 22°C to 34°C.

During the dry season, outdoor activities such as sightseeing, trekking, and exploring beaches become more convenient. The sea is usually clearer and more beautiful during this time. However, it's essential to prepare for high temperatures and strong sunlight by using sunscreen when engaging in outdoor activities.

Trekking in Ranong

In both seasons, Ranong typically experiences high humidity, especially during the rainy season. It's important to note that Ranong may receive heavy rainfall in a short period, leading to the risk of flooding and landslides.

Read more: Navigating Thailand's Weather

How to get to Ranong

Moving around Ranong is convenient due to the various transportation options available for travelers. Whether coming from other countries or neighboring provinces of Thailand, travelers can easily choose the transportation mode that suits their itinerary.

- By Airplane: Ranong International Airport (RGN) serves domestic flights from Bangkok and other major cities in Thailand. Flight tickets can be booked from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok or Don Mueang Airport through airlines such as Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, or Nok Air.

- By Bus: Ranong has bus routes from major cities such as Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, and other cities in Thailand. The main bus stations in Ranong are usually located in the city center.

- By Train: Although there is no railway station in Ranong, travelers can travel by train from Bangkok to nearby cities like Chumphon or Surat Thani, and then continue by bus or train to Ranong.

- By Car: Travelers can also rent a car or drive from nearby cities like Phuket or Krabi to Ranong. The four-lane highway from Phuket and Krabi to Ranong makes driving convenient and straightforward.

- By Coach: There are coach services from nearby cities such as Phuket, Krabi, and others to Ranong. These services usually depart from main bus stations and may offer flexibility in travel schedules.

Ranong Airport

Upon arrival in Ranong, travelers can use public transportation such as buses or taxis to move around the city or to tourist destinations in the area.

Where to go, what to eat in Ranong?

Ranong is a wonderful destination for those who love pristine nature and beautiful landscapes. Some famous places in Ranong include:

- Koh Phayam Island: Koh Phayam is a small island not far from the coast of Ranong. It is famous for its white sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and tranquil atmosphere.

- Raksawarin Hot Spring: The Raksawarin natural hot spring is also a popular tourist spot in Ranong. The hot water from this spring is believed to have health benefits and is capable of healing muscle and joint issues.

- Som Paen Beach: Hat Som Paen Beach is one of the beautiful beaches in Ranong.

Raksawarin Hot Spring

At some tourist spots in Ranong such as natural hot springs, beaches, or tourist areas, there may be an entrance fee. However, ticket prices may vary depending on the specific tourist spot and its policies.

Ranong is also famous for its local specialties such as grilled salmon, delicious seafood, and unique local dishes. Travelers can enjoy these unique dishes at restaurants and eateries throughout the province.

In Ranong, there are various types of accommodations available for travelers to choose from, including hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and homestays. Before booking, you should consider the location, amenities, prices, and user reviews to choose the accommodation that best suits your needs and budget.

Read more: Things to know before visiting Thailand

Ranong is a wonderful destination for those who want to experience the beauty of nature and feel the peace of coastal life. In summary, Ranong is a great destination for travelers looking to relax, explore, and enjoy the pristine beauty of nature along with the unique local culture.