Phu Chi Fa in Chiang Rai closed as Lao conflict spills

Phu Chi Fa National Park, in the northern border province of Chiang Rai, has been closed until further notice because of ongoing fighting between the Lao government and unidentified forces in Bo Kaeo Province of Laos.

Thai security forces along the border in the district have been reinforced to protect local communities.

Phu Chi Fa National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the province and the wider northern region, particularly during the cool season.

From its mountain-top viewpoints, visitors can enjoy panoramic views deep into Laos.

The closure was announced on the park’s official Facebook page and came after a stray bullet landed on the roof of a house in Ban Rom Fah Pha Mon village, Por sub-district, on Saturday.

No injuries were reported. Nonetheless, villagers are concerned that stray shells may land on Thai territory if the conflict in Laos escalates.

Reports indicate, though, that the fighting appears to have subsided for now, as no gunfire was heard yesterday.