KOH SAMUI, THAILAND – A 36-year-old Russian tourist was found dead below the Na-Phralan viewpoint on Koh Samui after another foreign visitor discovered the body on the beach on 5 February.
Body discovered on remote beach
Another foreign holidaymaker found the body on a beach below the Na-Phralan viewpoint and immediately alerted Koh Samui police. Officers arrived shortly afterwards with rescue teams from the Kusol Songkro Koh Samui Foundation and medical staff from Koh Samui Hospital at the remote site.
Difficult recovery in steep terrain
According to the portal MGR Online, the recovery was challenging because rescuers first had to climb to the viewpoint and then descend a steep route to the secluded bay. The narrow path was described by helpers as rocky, sloping and slippery, requiring extreme caution from everyone involved while securing the body.
Injuries point to fall from height
The man reportedly lay on his back and had injuries consistent with a fall from a great height. Rescue workers said there were indications that the victim had tried to hold on to vegetation during the fall.
Identity confirmed through documents
In a nearby red bag, officers found two passports and a hotel key, which allowed police to identify the deceased as Iliar Bichurin, a 36-year-old Russian citizen. At the time of his death, he was wearing black shorts, a long-sleeved black top and trainers, and there was no information about other clothing or equipment.
No evidence of violence or theft
Investigators found no signs of a struggle or indications of theft at the scene and initially ruled out an obvious violent crime. Based on the current information, officers assumed that the tourist probably fell while trying to descend from the viewpoint over the steep terrain to the beach.
Autopsy to clarify exact cause of death
Police suspected that Bichurin lost control during the descent and fell, though the exact circumstances still had to be clarified. The body was transferred to Koh Samui Hospital for a detailed autopsy to determine the precise cause of death.
Entry route and embassy coordination
According to MGR Online, the man had entered Thailand via the Kuan Dode border checkpoint in Satun province and later checked into a hotel in the Mae Nam district on Koh Samui. Police announced they would work with the Embassy of the Russian Federation to inform relatives and coordinate the formal procedures.
Authorities highlight safety risks for tourists
The incident underscored the dangers posed by unsecured viewpoints and steep coastal sections, especially when tourists leave marked trails. Local authorities regularly pointed out that many scenic spots on Koh Samui had no barriers or warning signs and that visitors needed to take personal responsibility for their safety.