Missing Uncle and Nephew Found Alive in Doi Phu Nang National Park

CHIANG RAI – A week of deep worry has finally ended with joy in Doi Phu Nang National Park in northern Thailand. Rescue teams have safely found an uncle and his nephew who vanished in a dense forest. Mr. Nak Khamlue, 74, and Mr. Ramesh Chanred, 20, first went missing on August 8, 2026. The two men were lost in the wild border area between Nan and Phrae provinces.

The search quickly became a massive race against time. Hundreds of searchers scoured the rugged terrain of Chiang Muan District for six long days. Family members waited anxiously as local authorities checked every inch of the woods. Finally, this massive community effort paid off on August 14.

Key Takeaways

Rescue teams safely located the missing uncle and nephew after six days in the wild.
Both men suffered from severe exhaustion and painful cuts on their feet.
A massive joint task force led the successful search across land and water.

A Massive Joint Rescue Operation

Sgt. Anurak Pantama of the 3104th Infantry Battalion directed the massive ground search. He successfully brought together soldiers, police officers, forest rangers, and local village rescue teams. Search teams from Doi Phu Nang National Park and public health departments also joined the hunt. Together, they covered tricky land and water routes near Pin village.

The lucky breakthrough came around 11:00 a.m. on Friday. Park rangers and soldiers spotted the two men deep in the heavy brush. Both men were extremely tired and had painful cuts all over their feet. Rescuers quickly stepped in to give them basic first aid on the spot.

After treating their foot wounds, the team carefully moved them out of the trees. A waiting medical team rushed them to a local health center for an urgent checkup. Doctors then moved both men to Chiang Muan Hospital for more advanced care. They are now resting safely and recovering with their loved ones nearby.

Doi Phu Nang National Park

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Where is Doi Phu Nang National Park and how big is it?

Doi Phu Nang National Park is located in Phayao Province in northern Thailand, covering parts of Dok Khamtai, Pong, and Chiang Muan districts. It spans approximately 860 km² (about 537,424 rai) within the Phi Pan Nam mountain range. The highest peak, Doi Phu Nang, reaches around 1,202–1,222 meters. It was established as Thailand’s 127th national park on June 13, 2012.

2. What are the main attractions and things to do?

Key highlights include:

Than Sawan Waterfall (Namtok Than Sawan) – a scenic two-tiered waterfall with emerald pools, located about 300 meters from the park headquarters; good for swimming and nature walks.
Huai Ton Phueng Waterfall – another attractive cascade.
Caves such as Pha Tang and Pang Nun, rock formations, Kaeng Luang rapids, and viewpoints.
Nature trails, birdwatching, camping, and wildlife observation. The park features mixed deciduous, dry evergreen, and dipterocarp forests.

3. Can I see green peafowl (Thai peacocks) here?

Yes — Doi Phu Nang is one of the most important remaining habitats for the rare green peafowl (Pavo muticus) in northern Thailand, with one of the largest breeding populations (estimates around 200–265 individuals reported in recent years). The best time to spot them is during the breeding season from January to March, especially early morning or late afternoon near the park headquarters and open areas.

4. When is the best time to visit and what are the opening hours/fees?

Best overall weather: October–January (cooler and clearer).
For peafowl viewing: January–March.
The park is generally open daily (typical hours around 06:00–18:00 or 08:00–16:00 for main areas; confirm current status). Entrance fees (approximate standard rates):
- Foreigners: 100 THB (adults), 50 THB (children)
- Thai nationals: significantly lower (often 20–40 THB adults). Vehicle fees may apply. Note that the park has occasionally closed temporarily due to wildfire risks.

5. How do I get there and is there accommodation?

From Phayao town, take Highway 1021 toward Dok Khamtai, then turn onto Highway 1251 toward Chiang Muan (about 45 km). At the Ban Bo Bia junction, turn right and continue a few kilometers to the headquarters (Ban Mang Subdistrict, Chiang Muan District).

The park offers camping areas (bring your own tent/gear) and basic accommodation options, plus restrooms, a visitor center, and a small shop. Private transport or hired songthaew/pickup is recommended, as public transport options are limited. Contact the park office (approx. +66 95 690 0605 or doiphunang@outlook.com) for the latest information.