Archaeologists have uncovered the oldest human remains ever found in Thailand, believed to be a 29,000-year-old skeleton belonging to a child, who researchers have named “Pangpond,” after a popular Thai cartoon character.
The discovery at Tham Din (Earthen Cave) in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park provides new insights into early human life in Southeast Asia.
The 29,000-year-old skeleton of the child, estimated to be between around 6 to 8 years old, was found lying on its back with arms and legs close to the body, suggesting they were wrapped or tied before burial. According to Thai PBS World, Thailand’s Fine Arts Department researchers believe this unusual burial position suggests a deliberate burial practice.
Rituals of ancient human communities
In addition to the child skeleton burial, the grave in Thailand contained evidence of fire, including ash and charcoal. Archaeologists suggest the fire was used to smoke the body to deter wild animals and mask decomposition odors. This practice and the burial’s careful positioning offer insights into the rituals of ancient human communities.
Radiocarbon dating of animal bones, shells, seeds, and stones near the burial site indicates that humans occupied the cave between 29,000 and 11,000 years ago. The exact date of the child’s burial remains unclear, but it places the remains within the late Pleistocene epoch, predating recorded history.
Ancient paintings and artifacts
The cave also features red ocher paintings, some depicting people hunting animals like deer and monkeys with bows and arrows. These paintings, found on the walls and ceilings of three chambers, provide further evidence of human activity in the area.
Lead archeaologist Kannika Premjai said in an interview with the Bangkok Post that the use of red ocher, along with the stone tools found, may have symbolized blood and power.
Thailand’s oldest Ice Age human skeleton discovered
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Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in Thailand’s Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park—the oldest human skeleton ever found in the country, dating back over 29,000 years.
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The remains, believed to be from a child… pic.twitter.com/fdaxFjijOD— Thenationthailand (@Thenationth) February 25, 2025
The discovery of Pangpond’s remains and artifacts paints a clearer picture of life in ancient Thailand. Researchers believe the findings reveal the adaptations of early humans to a region that, during the late Pleistocene, was connected to parts of Southeast Asia by a landmass called Sundaland. During that time, sea levels were significantly lower, exposing land that is now mostly submerged.
Tham Din has a long history of human occupation. From the burial grounds of Pangpond to later farming communities in the Holocene period, which began around 11,700 years ago, the site continues to offer valuable insights into human history.
Breakthrough discovery at Tham Din
Phnombootra Chandrajoti, director-general of the Fine Arts Department, called the discovery a breakthrough. He said in a statement, “This is a groundbreaking discovery that will reshape our understanding of early human presence in Southeast Asia.”
“The careful burial and the associated artifacts provide invaluable insights into the rituals and daily lives of these ancient inhabitants.”
The Thai Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation plans to protect the Tham Din archaeological site and eventually open it to the public for tourism and education. This effort will help preserve the region’s rich history for future generations.
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