Skip to main content
The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand
Temples & Culture
Krabi

The Elephant Sanctuary Krabi Thailand

4.9(1,767 reviews)

Nestled in the Nong Thale district of Krabi, this sanctuary provides a home for rescued and retired elephants, offering visitors a meaningful alternative to traditional elephant camps. The focus is firmly on animal welfare, with the elephants living in a natural environment and receiving proper care — making the experience as educational as it is memorable. It is well regarded by visitors seeking an authentic, responsible way to connect with one of Thailand's most iconic animals. Guests can expect an immersive, hands-on experience that typically spans several hours and includes feeding, bathing, and walking alongside the elephants. The setting is outdoor and natural, with plenty of opportunities for close encounters and photography. The sanctuary operates seven days a week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving travellers good flexibility when planning their itinerary. The experience is suitable for families, though young children should be kept under close supervision at all times. Good to know: Visitors should wear comfortable, waterproof clothing and sturdy closed-toe shoes, as bathing the elephants involves getting wet and navigating uneven ground. The cooler months between November and February offer the most comfortable conditions, though the sanctuary welcomes guests year-round. Booking in advance through the official website is strongly recommended to secure a preferred time slot and confirm availability.

Experience hints

Visitor favorite

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/
Opening Hours
Monday09:00-17:00
Tuesday09:00-17:00
Wednesday09:00-17:00
Thursday09:00-17:00
Friday09:00-17:00
Saturday09:00-17:00
Sunday09:00-17:00

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
Featured

Ko Lanta

4.6(1,091)
Ko Lanta District

Coral-fringed beaches draw scuba divers to this lush island district with a national park.

Ko Phi Phi Don
Featured

Ko Phi Phi Don

4.6(912)
Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District

Largest island in the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, featuring scenic inlets, beach resorts & restaurants.

Emerald Pool

Emerald Pool

4.3(13,256)
W7G9+27J, Khlong Thom Nuea, Khlong Thom District, Krabi 81120, Thailand

A natural spring-fed pool in Krabi's jungle, famed for its striking emerald-green water and peaceful rainforest setting.

Kodam Kitchen branch 1

Kodam Kitchen branch 1

4.7(9,477)$$$$
228 หมู่ที่ 3 Thanon Khlong Hang, Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81180, Thailand

Highly regarded budget Thai restaurant in Ao Nang, open daily, known for curries, seafood, and Pad Thai.

Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Featured

Wat Phra Kaew

4.6(85,000)
Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200

Thailand's most sacred Buddhist temple, home to the Emerald Buddha

Doi Suthep Temple
Featured

Doi Suthep Temple

4.6(58,000)
Doi Suthep, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200

Hilltop temple overlooking Chiang Mai with stunning golden chedi

The Grand Palace

The Grand Palace

4.6(76,723)
Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

Built in 1782, this ornate royal palace complex now houses a museum & is open to visitors.

Pattaya Walking Street

Pattaya Walking Street

4.3(51,994)
Walking St, Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150, Thailand

Colorful red-light area, closed to vehicles nightly & lined with bars, nightclubs, eateries & neon.

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

High

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