town, southern Thailand, on the hilly western side of the Malay Peninsula. It lies on the coastal road and is a centre for mining, trade, and tourism inspired by the mountain caves and coastal scenery. The surrounding area has a coastline on the Indian Ocean and embraces a number of offshore islands. Tin and tungsten are mined in the region, and rubber, fruit, and rice are produced. Pop. (1991 est.) 8,540.