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Hidden gems of Ranong architecture
The sleepy town of Ranong is far off the beaten tracks of tourist. However, it is home to architectural gems that reflects the glory of the day.
The Rattana Rangsan Throne Hall, which is a replica, is located on a hill in the heart of Ranong City. The original mansion was built under the command of Ranong Governor Khaw Sim Kong (1840-1912) to accommodate King Rama V during his tour of the Malay Peninsula.
Now serving as a museum, the replica of the royal hall includes a large entrance hall, leading to the main living and sleeping quarters. A long roofed corridor standing next to a three story tower with a spiral staircase and octagonal room at the bottom. The spiral staircase leads to the third floor which is the viewpoint to enjoy the sunset scenery on the Andaman Sea. The border of Thailand and Myanmar can be seen from there as well.
The residence of Ranong Governor is located less than 2 kilometers from downtown Ranong. The simple concrete building with pitched roof is located in a large complex with a 13-hectare complex. This is where the first governor of Ranong, Phraya Damrong Sucharit Mahison Phakdi, resided in the 1820s.The exhibitions, photos and antiquities tell stories about the life of the governor and Ranong in yesteryears.
Ban Tian Sue is another interesting place. It is just a short drive from the residence of the first Ranong governors and rich in stories of Na Ranong, the Ranong governor's family. The two-storey semi-brick house of Ban Tian Sue, one of the descendants of the governors, is built in a sino-portuguese style with a courtyard.
As Ranong is a town of mineral rich, particularly the tin. The house served both private residence and treasury of the family. Coins from the trade with tin were kept in this house. Today, Ban Tian Sue opens it for public visits. An opportunity to see interesting items and details of the Na Ranong family.
How to get there: Ranong is located 625 kilometers south of Bangkok. Rattana Rangsan Throne Hall is on Kamlangsap Road. Admission for foreigners is 100 baht.
