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Elephant Sanctuary Thailand

An ethical elephant sanctuary in central Chiang Mai offering guided, hands-on experiences with rescued elephants.

4.8(199)
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Plan your visit

Hours
Daily 08:00–18:00

Vet Elephant Sanctuaries

Only visit sanctuaries that prohibit riding, use no chains or bullhooks, and let elephants roam freely. Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai set the standard. If a place offers painting shows or circus tricks, walk away.

Details

Full opening hours
Monday08:00–18:00
Tuesday08:00–18:00
Wednesday08:00–18:00
Thursday08:00–18:00
Friday08:00–18:00
Saturday08:00–18:00
Sunday08:00–18:00

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Why go, and how to do it well

This well-regarded sanctuary operates from a convenient city-center location on Intha Warorot Road, offering travelers a responsible alternative to traditional elephant tourism. The focus is firmly on animal welfare and conservation, with each elephant introduced to visitors along with its individual rescue story. Staff lead informative sessions on elephant biology and sanctuary operations before guests spend time feeding and walking alongside the animals in a setting designed to reflect their natural needs.

Visitors consistently highlight the warmth and knowledge of the guides, the structured yet relaxed pace of the experience, and the genuine care shown toward the animals. The program includes shade breaks, drinking water, and a buffet meal, with lockers and showers available on site. Tours typically involve close contact with the elephants, so participants should expect to get wet or muddy at times — this is considered a highlight by most guests rather than an inconvenience.

Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Aug 2026

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Around here, on foot

Well-rated places within a short walk of Elephant Sanctuary Thailand, nearest first. Minutes are at an easy pace in the heat.

Experience hints

Hidden gem
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Reviews from Google

One of a lifetimes best experiences ever!! As an elephant lover, we were very excited to go to this place on our holidays. Booked through GYG £70 GBP was the best money ever spent. The place was amazing, clean, well organised and the elephants and staff were happy and it was truely incredible. The ladies were very well cared for no chains or restrictions and they were free to roam around. We prepped their food, fed them, stroked them, kissed and cuddled them, showered with them and even gave them a mud bath. It was very personal and upclose. The elephants were in their elements. Their eyes were bright, tails swished and ears constantly flapping, it was just purely magical and we loved ever minute. After tending to the beautiful ladies we had our lunch which was traditional Thai food and again excellent. Many thanks for the most memorable day!

I had an amazing time! The staff wete very helpful providing regular shade breaks, water and even a buffet meal at the end.. they provide lockers and showers too! And OMG! The elephants! I fell in love with them! We were able to pet them, get “hugs” from them, feed them and even helped wash them. This is a once in a lifetime experience to spend up close and personal time eitthese beautiful gentle giants! Not to be missed

We were absolutely delighted to see how well these graceful giants were cared for. It is clear that the keepers are dedicated to their ethical care. We enjoyed feeding and walking with the elephants. And then we got to give them mud baths and rise them off after. This is an experience we will never forget!

A sample of visitor reviews from Google. Read all 199 reviews on Google.

93 Intha Warorot Road, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

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Elephant Sanctuary Thailand: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Elephant Sanctuary Thailand worth visiting?

Elephant Sanctuary Thailand holds a 4.8★ rating from 199 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated activities & tours in Chiang Mai.

What are the opening hours of Elephant Sanctuary Thailand?

Elephant Sanctuary Thailand is typically open 08:00–18:00 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.

When is the best time to visit Elephant Sanctuary Thailand?

The best months to visit Chiang Mai are November – February, with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & Songkran (April) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: Mid-February – April (smoke & heat).

Where is Elephant Sanctuary Thailand located?

Elephant Sanctuary Thailand is at 93 Intha Warorot Road, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand, in Chiang Mai. Getting around Chiang Mai: Red songthaews (shared pick-up trucks); Grab (available in city center).

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