Thailand is also known as the land of the silent giants, Elephants. We bring for you a list of ethical places which follow animal wellbeing norms. You will enjoy your time in the company of these giants, without riding on them.
Elephant Hills
Located in the charming Khao Sok National Park, Elephant Hills is a glamping-come-elephant-sanctuary that gives one the feel of an African Wildlife Safari. Elephant Hills offers the visitors a priceless experience where they get to interact with Elephants in a true jungle-like experience and also bathe and feed them. It adheres to a strict no-ride policy and has been recognized in 2015 by the esteemed Thai Green Excellence Award for Animal Welfare.
Elephant Nature Park
It is located close to the northern Thai city of Chiang Mai and is considered the most renowned and revered elephant conservation park in the entire country. When you visit there, you will be greeted by 35 freely roaming elephants, most of who have been saved from different industries. You can also choose to volunteer at the park if you wish to spend and work with these giants.
Friends of the Asian Elephant Hospital
One of the few elephant hospitals in the world, Friends of the Asian Elephant Hospital offers a unique experience to elephant lovers. As expected, the place offers treatment and rehabilitation to the sick or traumatized elephants and gives the visitor to see and experience the process. Visitors are not allowed to get too close to the elephants as it might obstruct their healing process.
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary
It has its flagship location in Chiang Mai; however, there are several other sanctuaries across Thailand. It houses over 30 elephants that were saved from abuse. The sanctuary teaches visitors to appreciate and respect the elephants and also educate them about irresponsible tourist practices. Additionally, you can stay overnight at a local Karen village to get an immersive cultural experience.
Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand
The well-regarded Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) has nine animal welfare projects across Thailand. It has an animal refuge centre near Hua Hin where the visitors can learn about elephant conservation challenges, walk and bathe with elephants. Visitors can go on a one-day tour or stay for a week-long to get an immersive experience.
There are other places as well, such as Happy Elephant Home, Phang Nga Elephant Park and Boon Lott’s Elephant Sanctuary, where you can learn all about Elephants in their natural habitat.
