Namtok Punyaban

Namtok Punyaban is a three-tier waterfall inside Lam Nam Kraburi National Park, right beside Highway 4 (Phetkasem Road) about 14 km north of Ranong town — close enough to the road that the falls are visible from a passing car. Entry costs 100 THB for foreigners and 20 THB for Thai nationals, and the gate is open daily 06:30–19:00.

The water flows year-round, fed by a creek running down from the Pa La-un forest reserve rather than relying on seasonal rain. Three tiers step down through the forest: Punyaban at the base, Ton Mai Phai (bamboo tier) above it, and Ton Fern higher still, before the stream continues on as Khlong Set Takuat. A 300-metre nature trail follows the watershed past the lower tiers, running through evergreen forest that stays lush through the dry months. The pool below the first tier is where most visitors settle in for a swim or a rest.

Watch out: The rocks around the pools get slippery, especially after rain — wear shoes with real grip rather than flip-flops, and take the trail at an easy pace.

Insider Tip: Because the entrance sits directly on Highway 4, Punyaban works well as a short stop on the drive between Chumphon and Ranong rather than a dedicated day trip — most visitors are in and out within an hour.

Water flow peaks just after the rainy season, October to November, when the three tiers are at their fullest; by the hot season the upper tiers can thin out noticeably. A car park, a restaurant and restrooms sit at the entrance, and the park asks visitors to carry out whatever they bring in — there’s no rubbish collection along the trail.

From Ranong town, the falls are a straightforward 14 km drive north on Highway 4; the entrance and car park are on the right-hand side heading north, clearly visible from the road. View on Google Maps. For more waterfalls in the area, Namtok Ton Phet is another option closer to Ranong town itself.