Missing hiker found safe after seven days in Phu Soi Dao

A tourist who went missing for seven days after hiking Phu Soi Dao has been found in good health. The 27 year old missing tourist reunited with his family, who embraced him in tears of joy. He is currently under medical observation.

Thanwarit Matima was reported missing after he registered with Phu Soi Dao National Park officials on July 4 to hike and enjoy the natural scenery and mist in the rainy season. After registration, he failed to confirm his arrival at the designated area by 5.30pm the same day, prompting officials to initiate a search operation.

His belongings, including a grey-black bag, a notebook, a pair of sneakers, and some snacks, were found near a trail at Nern Song Yat, approximately 50 metres into the forest from where his bag was located.

The search effort included national park officials, volunteers, trekkers, porters, and tracking dogs, as well as a helicopter from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. Despite these efforts, Thanyawit remained missing for seven days.

This morning at 7am, Farut, the head of Phu Soi Dao National Park, was informed by the owner of a local eatery, Nong Miao Food, that a person resembling the missing tourist had walked into the restaurant, appearing exhausted. Upon verification, it was confirmed to be Thanwarit. Officials immediately notified his parents and family, who rushed to the scene and embraced him, tears streaming down their faces, reported KhaoSod.

Due to his exhausted and shivering state, officials promptly provided Thanwarit with a meal of fried rice with eggs. Farut mentioned that there had been no opportunity to question Thanwarit about his ordeal due to his weakened condition. Officials prioritised feeding him and then transported him to Chat Trakan Hospital in Phitsanulok for a thorough health check-up.