CHIANG MAI– A major forest fire broke out in the Doi Suthep-Pui National Park yesterday, coming within 500 meters of the historic Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. Over 100 firefighters and volunteers, supported by aviation units, worked through the day to bring the flames under control and protect the sacred site and nearby meditation centers.
The fire started on the morning of April 11, 2026, with five separate hotspots identified within the national park. The flames moved quickly toward the front of the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep and the “Eight-Sided Pavilion,” a well-known meditation site for international visitors.
Chiang Mai Governor Nirat Pongsitthithaworn arrived at the scene shortly after the fire was reported to lead the command center. He emphasized the importance of a rapid response to prevent the fire from reaching the temple grounds, which are considered the soul of the city.
A Joint Effort on Land and in the Air
The battle to save the forest involved a massive collaboration between government agencies and residents. The Office of Conservation Area 16 mobilized ground teams, including:
- National Park rangers and Phuping fire control officers.
- The “Fire Hawks” elite forest fire unit.
- Soldiers from the 33rd Military District.
- Residents from Doi Suthep Village and the Hmong Doi Pui community.
While ground crews tackled the rugged terrain, air support proved vital. Two helicopters—one from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and a KA-32 from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation—performed continuous water drops. These aerial maneuvers were essential in slowing the fire’s progress in high-altitude areas where ground access was limited.
Local villagers reported that they had been working on firebreaks just a day before the blaze broke out. However, they faced a unique obstacle at a cliff known as “Pha Phueng” (Bee Cliff). Large wild beehives in the area made it impossible for volunteers to complete the firebreak in that specific section. Unfortunately, this was exactly where the fire managed to spread.
Current Status and Safety Measures
By late afternoon, officials confirmed that the fire had been contained within a specific perimeter. While the active flames have been extinguished, a large “black zone” of scorched earth remains.
Governor Nirat has ordered teams to stay on-site overnight to monitor for “hot spots” or flare-ups. The dry weather and shifting winds during the Songkran season remain a high risk for the region.
Doi Suthep is more than just a mountain; it is a vital ecosystem and a major tourist attraction. A fire this close to the temple serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of Thailand’s northern forests during the dry season. For now, the temple remains safe and open to visitors, though officials urge everyone to remain vigilant and report any signs of smoke immediately.
