Explore the ethical side of elephant tourism at Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary. Learn traditional mahout skills, take a walk with elephants in the forest, and support conservation efforts. A must-see destination for animal lovers.
This path we have followed for more than 15 years, it is a journey we chose willingly. One chosen out of love and compassion. We have fallen down at times, cried at others, and laughed more than once, but we have never given up.
We never considered stopping, because our life's work has been providing happiness to elephants, and through that seeing that happiness and smiles of our visitors.
Those are our greatest rewards. Everyone at Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary would like to express their sincere gratitude to all who have helped us become who we are today. We promise to continue the pursuit of our goals with hearts filled with love for elephants everywhere.
For many years, the elephants have to work for the human. Most of them working in the high density population and traffic area, that make elephants more stress and frightening. To safe the elephant from living with fear, we aimed to bring elephant back to their home in naturally remote area and living there peacefully.
The Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, established in 2014, is a haven for rescued elephants. Many of the elephants at the sanctuary have been saved from a life of abuse and neglect in the tourism and logging industries.
The sanctuary offers a variety of programs that allow visitors to interact with and learn about the elephants in a safe and ethical way. One of the most popular programs is the "Elephant Experience," where guests can spend the day with the elephants, feeding them, bathing them, and even going for a walk with them in the forest.
IIn addition to the Elephant Experience, the sanctuary also offers a "Mahout Training" program, which allows visitors to learn about the traditional skills and techniques used by elephant handlers, known as "Mahouts."
The sanctuary is also committed to educating the public about elephant conservation and the negative impact of elephant tourism. Visitors can learn about the issues facing elephants in Thailand, such as habitat loss and poaching, and how they can help to protect these magnificent animals.
The Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary is not a zoo or a theme park, but a sanctuary that provides a safe and natural environment for the elephants to live and thrive. It’s a must-see destination for animal lovers and anyone looking for a truly meaningful and educational experience in Chiang Mai.
Overall, the Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary is a unique and rewarding destination that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about and connect with these majestic animals in a responsible and ethical way. Visitors can support the sanctuary by choosing to visit and contribute to their efforts.
Chiang Mai, Thailand is a popular destination for tourists looking to interact with elephants, however, not all elephant sanctuaries in the area are created equal. It’s important to choose only ethical elephant sanctuaries that prioritize the welfare of these magnificent animals.
Elephant Nature Park, located just outside of Chiang Mai, is one of the most reputable sanctuaries in the area. The park rescues elephants from trekking camps, circuses, and other exploitative situations and provides them with a natural and safe environment. Visitors can observe and learn about the elephants, but riding and other forms of exploitation are strictly prohibited.
Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary (BLES) is another great option. This small, family-run sanctuary rescues elephants from all over Thailand and provides them with a peaceful and natural home. Visitors can interact with the elephants in a responsible and respectful way, such as feeding and bathing them.
Patara Elephant Farm offers a unique opportunity to learn about elephant conservation and breeding. Visitors can observe the elephants and learn about the breeding program, but riding is not allowed.
The Surin Project is a sanctuary that focuses on the rehabilitation and reintegration of elephants back into the wild. Visitors can observe the elephants, but the focus is on the elephants’ welfare rather than human interaction.
Maerim Elephant Sanctuary rescues and cares for elephants from all over Thailand, with a focus on providing a natural environment for the elephants. Visitors can interact with the elephants, but riding is not permitted.
Overall, these sanctuaries are committed to the ethical treatment and care of elephants, allowing visitors to have a meaningful and humane elephant experience. It’s important to remember that the welfare of the elephants should always come first, and to avoid any sanctuaries that offer elephant riding or shows.
