MAE HONG SON, THAILAND – A Thai trekker who plunged more than 100 meters into a gorge in Mae Hong Son was rescued alive by specialist teams after a prolonged operation in steep, remote terrain.
Fall into remote gorge near waterfall
The accident occurred at around 4 p.m. on Doi Huai Phai Hok near Ban Nam Hu in the Huai Pu Ling subdistrict of Mueang district, while the man was on a nature trek with friends that included an overnight stay. The tourist, identified as Mr Somkuan Chomchuen, became trapped in the ravine after the fall, unable to free himself and in need of immediate emergency assistance.
Broken trekking pole suspected as cause
According to initial reports, the trekking pole the man was using for support broke, causing him to lose his balance and slide down a steep embankment into the depths below. The fall took place near a waterfall by Ban Nam Hu, in an area described as particularly steep, slippery and dangerous for hikers and rescuers alike.
Coordinated multi-agency rescue
The commander of the Singhanat Task Force, Colonel Yodchai Phuangwarin, ordered the deployment of a disaster relief team from his unit, which moved to the site together with the Mae Hong Son Disaster Relief Foundation. After the emergency call was received, rescuers launched a coordinated operation to secure the difficult slope and locate the injured man.
High-angle specialists reach the site
The foundation dispatched a specialized high‑angle rescue team that had to cover about one kilometer on foot through rugged terrain to reach the crash site. On scene, the rescuers assessed the man’s condition, provided first aid and hauled him out of the gorge using a rope system designed specifically for steep terrain.
Hospital treatment and safe return of crews
The operation involved the Sri Sangwan Hospital, the Singhanat Task Force and the high‑angle rescue team from Mae Hong Son Airport, which coordinated the technical extraction and medical care. Mr Somkuan was transported to Sri Sangwan Hospital for further treatment, while authorities confirmed that all emergency personnel returned safely to their bases at 7:10 p.m.
Authorities highlight trekking risks
According to the newspaper Khaosod, the incident illustrated the risks associated with trekking in remote mountain regions, especially in areas with steep slopes and limited access for rescue teams. Officials released no further details about the extent of the tourist’s injuries but stressed that he continued to receive medical care and that the mission ended without additional injuries among the rescue teams.
“The incident shows the risks that trekking in remote mountain regions entails, particularly where the terrain is steep and access for rescue teams remains limited.”
said Khaosod, citing local officials.