


The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand
Situated in the Nong Thale district of Krabi, this sanctuary offers a meaningful and ethical alternative to traditional elephant camps, providing a permanent home for rescued and retired elephants in a natural, open environment. The focus is squarely on animal welfare, making it a compelling choice for travellers who want a genuine connection with these animals without compromising on responsible tourism values. Visits are immersive and hands-on, typically spanning several hours and including feeding, bathing, and walking alongside the elephants in their natural surroundings. The setting is entirely outdoor, with ample opportunity for close encounters and photography throughout the experience. The sanctuary operates seven days a week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, offering good flexibility for travellers working around a broader Krabi itinerary. Families are welcome, though young children should remain under close supervision at all times given the nature of the experience. Good to know: visitors should wear comfortable, waterproof clothing and sturdy closed-toe shoes, as the bathing activities involve getting wet and moving across uneven terrain. The cooler months between November and February tend to offer the most comfortable outdoor conditions, though the sanctuary operates year-round. Booking in advance through the official website is strongly recommended to secure a preferred time slot.
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand, round out your day in Krabi with contrasting stops nearby.
Location Info
165 หมู่4 หนองทะเล Tambon Nong Thale, เมือง Chang Wat Krabi 81000, Thailand+66 91 826 5498www.theelephantsanctuarykrabi.com/Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus/minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.
Getting around
- •Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
- •Songthaews in Ao Nang
- •Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
- •Motorbike rental
Where to stay near The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand
Find hotels in Krabi 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 Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Also Popular in Krabi

Ko Lanta
A laid-back island in Krabi offering coral-fringed beaches, diving, and a genuinely local atmosphere.

Ko Phi Phi Don
The largest island in the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, balancing vibrant beach life with dramatic natural scenery.

Emerald Pool
A mineral-rich natural swimming pool deep in Krabi's rainforest, famous for its striking emerald-green water.

Kodam Kitchen branch 1
Beloved budget Thai restaurant in Ao Nang serving consistent classics daily from 11am to 10:30pm.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok's most sacred temple sits within the Grand Palace complex, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.

Doi Suthep Temple
A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.

The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.

Pattaya Walking Street
Pattaya's iconic pedestrian nightlife strip, buzzing nightly with bars, clubs, seafood, and neon lights.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
November – April
Avoid: June – September (rough Andaman seas)
Rainy season
May – October
Avg. temperature
23°C – 33°C(73°F – 91°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – February
Getting there
Krabi Airport (KBV) has direct flights from Bangkok (1.5 hrs). Ferries connect to Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, and Phuket. Bus/minivan from Phuket takes ~3 hrs.
Getting around
- •Long-tail boats (islands & Railay Beach)
- •Songthaews in Ao Nang
- •Grab (limited, mainly Ao Nang)
- •Motorbike rental
Where to stay near The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand
Find hotels in Krabi 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.