🐘 Elephant Nature Park – Ethical Elephant
Sanctuary in Chiang Mai

Elephant Nature Park is one of the most respected and internationally recognized ethical elephant
sanctuaries in Thailand. Located in a lush valley about 60 kilometers north of Chiang Mai, the park
provides a safe, natural home for rescued elephants that have suffered from logging, street begging, tourism
abuse, or neglect.
Elephant Nature Park is a pioneer of responsible elephant tourism, focusing on conservation, education,
and animal welfare—without elephant riding, performances, or forced interactions.
📜 Background & Mission
Elephant Nature Park was founded in the 1990s by elephant conservationist Lek Chailert, whose mission is
to protect elephants and raise awareness about ethical treatment.
The sanctuary rescues elephants from abusive situations and allows them to live freely in a natural
environment, where they can socialize, roam, and behave naturally.
The park also rescues and protects other animals such as dogs, cats, buffaloes, and horses.
🌿 Sanctuary Environment
Elephant Nature Park is set in a wide river valley surrounded by mountains and forest. The open landscape
allows elephants to:
 Walk freely without chains
 Socialize with other elephants
 Bathe naturally in the river
 Live in family groups
Visitors observe elephants in their natural behavior, rather than controlling or entertaining them.
🐘 Elephant Experience (No Riding)
Visitors to Elephant Nature Park can enjoy meaningful, respectful interactions, including:
 Feeding elephants fruits and vegetables
 Observing elephants bathing and playing in the river
 Walking alongside elephants (no touching required)
 Learning about elephant behavior, health, and conservation
❌ No riding, no shows, no tricks – all activities prioritize elephant welfare.

🎓 Education & Conservation
Elephant Nature Park places strong emphasis on education. Visitors learn about:
 The history of elephant exploitation in Thailand
 Ethical wildlife tourism practices
 Elephant health care and rehabilitation
 Conservation challenges and solutions
This educational approach helps travelers make responsible choices and support sustainable tourism.
Visitor Programs
The park offers several programs:
 Half-Day Visit
 Full-Day Visit
 Overnight & Volunteer Programs
Each program includes transportation from Chiang Mai, guided activities, and vegetarian meals.
📍 Location & How to Get There
 Location: Mae Taeng District, north of Chiang Mai
 Distance: Approx. 1.5 hours from Chiang Mai city
 Transportation: Round-trip transfers included with most programs
 Independent Visits: Not permitted (advance booking required)
🕒 Visitor Information
 Operating Days: Daily (advance reservation required)
 Program Duration: Half-day or full-day
 Dress Code: Comfortable clothing, closed shoes recommended
 What to Bring: Hat, sunscreen, camera, reusable water bottle
🌸 Best Time to Visit
 November – February: Cool weather, ideal conditions
 March – May: Warmer but still enjoyable
 June – October: Green landscapes and active elephants
Visits are rewarding year-round due to the park’s natural setting.
🌟 Why Visit Elephant Nature Park?
✔ One of Thailand’s most ethical elephant sanctuaries
✔ No riding or animal exploitation
✔ Educational and meaningful experience
✔ Supports rescue and conservation
✔ Beautiful natural surroundings