Wednesday 1 April 2015

RANONG ISTHMUS OF KRA THAILAND

Ranong is a quiet town on River Chan leading to the Isthmus of Kra which separates Thailand from Myanmar. There were ambitions plans to build a canal like Panama or Suez Canals to allow for a quick ship passage to the Gulf of Thailand.




 There is only a 50 kilometer stretch of land that could easily be converted into a canal and save some 1600 nautical miles for ships and boats undertaking a passage through Malacca Strait and around Singapore to get to the Gulf of Thailand and Bangkok.



The project never took off and Ranong is still a quiet town. It offers a ferry service across River Chan to Kawthoung, Myanmar.





Ranong is also a starting point to island hopping and diving.



Ko Phayam is one of the less touristy islands of golden beaches fringed with palms. 




The resorts are less upmarket and friendly, food delicious. Cross island walking is pleasant and biking across is popular as well. A walk to the Buddhist Temple is rewarding. 



Ranong is also a gateway to Surin National Park, islands, reefs, rain forest and wildlife. The Surins are true echo paradise, an absolute must to see and experience.

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