Elephant Camp Chang Wang Pho
Situated in the quiet Sai Yok district of Kanchanaburi province, this elephant camp offers visitors direct interaction with elephants in a natural outdoor setting, including feeding and bathing activities alongside mahouts. The camp occupies a scenic area within one of western Thailand's most visited natural regions, drawing travellers looking for elephant encounters as part of a broader Kanchanaburi itinerary. However, visitor opinion on this camp is genuinely divided and prospective guests should research carefully before booking. Multiple reviewers have raised welfare concerns, including the use of sharp hooks by mahouts, elephants kept on short chains, and the presence of elephant riding equipment on site. Others describe the experience more positively, viewing it as a worthwhile visit that supports elephant conservation. This range of feedback reflects an ongoing and important debate around elephant tourism in Thailand, and travellers with animal welfare priorities should weigh these accounts seriously before deciding to visit. Good to know: The camp is located roughly 100 kilometres from Bangkok, making it accessible as a day trip, though public transport to this area is limited and private or arranged transport is strongly recommended. Wear clothes you are comfortable getting wet in and bring a change of clothing. No website is currently listed, so contacting the camp directly or through a local tour operator to confirm opening hours, availability, and current conditions before visiting is advised.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Elephant Camp Chang Wang Pho, round out your day in Kanchanaburi with contrasting stops nearby.
Visitor Reviews
worth visiting. it deserves it. save the elephant for the better future.
I m still confused about this place. It looks that elephants are not treated bad... But Mahouts (elephants traineers) with their sharp hooks cause the feeling that there is something wrong. For sure riding, bathing, feeding, this are not the activities elephants want to do. But elephants needs us and our money and every camp is focused on earning money and keeping elephants in a good shape.
I have come here with two people they went inside but I refused to get in. Have ideals, one or two pictures can mean a moment of joy for the tourist but a whole life of imprisonment for elephants. Do research, go to places where people at least treat them with dignity don’t give money to places where they profit. It was very painful to see from far. Consider to go somewhere where people treat animals with dignity, mounting elephants leads to permanent spinal injuries.
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (extreme heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
20°C – 38°C(68°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Thonburi station (~3 hrs, scenic). Minibuses from Mo Chit take ~2.5 hrs. Car hire recommended for exploring beyond town.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (town is flat)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Songthaews along the river
- •Long-tail boat tours on the river
Where to stay near Elephant Camp Chang Wang Pho
Find hotels in Kanchanaburi on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Tips for Visiting Activities & Tours
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.
Book Through Klook or GetYourGuide
These platforms offer instant confirmation, free cancellation on most activities, and prices that are often lower than walk-up rates. Compare with local agencies for multi-day trips where negotiation might save more.
Do Outdoor Activities in the Morning
Heat and humidity peak from noon to 3 PM. Schedule jungle treks, cycling tours, and outdoor cooking classes for early morning. Water activities are more flexible since you're in and out of the sea.
Also Popular in Kanchanaburi
The Village Farm To Café
A deceptively spacious farm-to-café on Highway 323 that opens into a lush, village-like retreat.
Wat Tham Suea
A hilltop Buddhist temple in Kanchanaburi featuring a towering 18-metre golden Buddha visible across the valley.
Keeree Mantra Restaurant
Scenic open-air Thai restaurant with limestone mountain views, spacious indoor and outdoor seating, and traditional dishes.
Keereetara Riverside
Gourmet Thai dining on the banks of the River Kwai, with views of the iconic bridge.
Similar Activities & Tours Across Thailand
Safari World
A sprawling open-zoo and entertainment park combining safari drives, animal shows, and marine attractions.
Lumphini Park
Bangkok's beloved green lung — a vast urban park offering lake boats, wildlife, and a peaceful city escape.
SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World
An immersive aquarium hidden beneath Siam Paragon mall, featuring sharks, rays, and walk-through ocean tunnels.
King Power Mahanakhon
Bangkok's highest accessible observation deck, perched atop a 78-floor skyscraper with a thrilling glass floor.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – February
Avoid: April – May (extreme heat)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
20°C – 38°C(68°F – 100°F)
Crowds
Peak: November – February
Getting there
Train from Bangkok Thonburi station (~3 hrs, scenic). Minibuses from Mo Chit take ~2.5 hrs. Car hire recommended for exploring beyond town.
Getting around
- •Bicycle rental (town is flat)
- •Motorbike rental
- •Songthaews along the river
- •Long-tail boat tours on the river
Where to stay near Elephant Camp Chang Wang Pho
Find hotels in Kanchanaburi on the booking sites travellers trust most.
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.