Namtok Ton Phet

Namtok Ton Phet (“Diamond Falls”) is an 11-tier waterfall in the rainforest of mainland Ranong, fed by streams off the province’s highest hills. It flows year-round, it’s free, and a marked jungle trail climbs past its levels to pools you can swim in. Despite often being listed with Koh Phayam, it’s on the mainland — about 40 km away — so it’s a day trip from the island rather than a sight on it.

What to expect

The falls drop in eleven distinct tiers over granite, each with its own character and, at several levels, a pool cool enough for a welcome dip after the walk in. The setting is dense, quiet rainforest — big trees, birdsong, butterflies, the odd monitor lizard by the water — and it sees few visitors, so it stays peaceful. The cascade is fullest during and just after the rainy season (roughly May to October), though water runs all year.

Insider Tip: Come in or just after the rains for the strongest flow, and start early — the trail is shaded but humid, and you’ll have the pools to yourself before any day-trippers arrive from the coast.

Getting there

The trail starts near Ratchakrut in Mueang Ranong district; the walk up to the falls takes around 45 minutes on jungle paths. Most people drive, or cross from Koh Phayam and continue by road on the mainland. There’s no direct public transport, so a car or an arranged transfer is the practical way in.

Watch out: It’s an undeveloped forest waterfall — the trail and rocks are slippery when wet, there are no facilities, and phone signal is patchy. Wear grippy shoes, carry water and a dry bag, and don’t attempt the upper tiers alone in high water.

Namtok Ton Phet is at Ratchakrut, Mueang Ranong District, Ranong 85000. View on Google Maps.