An elderly Buddhist monk miraculously survived four days trapped in a narrow cave without food and water in Thailand.

Luang Ta Somchai, 77, was reported missing from Wat Thammasathan Phasawan temple in Loei province on December 7, before a search began.

Volunteers failed to locate him nearby and extended their search up to 2km from the building, until they discovered him stuck in a tight rock crevice on December 11.

Footage shows officers from the Loei Highway Rescue Association wearing harnesses and rappelling down a small hole to reach the monk.

Rescue officer Tawadee said: 'The monk was conscious when found but physically weak. He had scratches all over his body.'

Luang Ta Somchai said he entered the cave from a different point to the point where he was rescued. He became lost inside the natural labrynth.

The team climbed down a 98ft (30m) cave and found him upside down in the third chamber, which was a deep, narrow section with little air or light.

The monk's head and shoulders were wedged in the cavity, leaving him unable to move, with only his feet visible from the hole.

Because of the confined space, only three officials could enter, rappelling head-first to reach him.

They spent more than three hours carefully prying open the rock to free the monk and bring him to safety.

Medics provided first aid before transporting him to Nong Hin Hospital, where he is now recovering.

Doctors said that he was dehydrated and had minor injuries but was otherwise in good health.

The monk said: 'I walked through the cave but could not get out again. I had no phone, so I just waited and called for help.

'I'm thankful to all the people who helped me.'