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History of Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Chiang Mai

Established in 2014, the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary was founded with a mission to rescue elephants from harsh working conditions and promote ethical elephant tourism in Thailand. The sanctuary began as a collaboration between local Karen hill-tribe members, Chiang Mai residents, and experienced elephant caretakers who shared a vision of creating a safe haven for elephants to live freely — without chains, riding, or performances.

Today, it stands as one of northern Thailand’s leading ethical sanctuaries, offering rescued elephants a peaceful life amid forested hills and rivers, while educating visitors about conservation and responsible travel.

Why is Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary a must-visit attraction?

Elephants and visitor at Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Thailand.
Girl in traditional Karen attire feeding an elephant in Chiang Mai.
Tourists observing elephants bathing in a river at a wildlife sanctuary.
Elderly couple weaving baskets in a traditional Hmong village during a half-day tour of Doi Suthep.
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Ethical and responsible tourism

Unlike traditional camps with rides or shows, Chiang Mai’s sanctuaries focus purely on elephant welfare. You’ll meet rescued elephants in a safe, chain-free environment, walking, feeding, and bathing them only as they wish. Every visit directly supports their care and rehabilitation, making it a meaningful experience that feels as good as it does ethical.

Immersive hands-on experiences

Slip into traditional mahout clothing, feed the elephants fresh fruits, join them for a mud bath, prepare food for them or walk beside them through the forest. You’re not just observing; you’re helping care for them. Guided by local caretakers, these hands-on experiences create a genuine sense of connection that makes the day feel both personal and purposeful.

Learn, connect & contribute

Each sanctuary visit doubles as a learning journey. Guides share stories of individual elephants, explain their behaviours, and raise awareness about conservation challenges. Visitors often leave understanding not just how elephants live, but what it takes to protect them — from habitat loss to ethical care. It’s an experience that informs as much as it inspires, especially for families and curious travellers.

Supporting local communities

Every visit also supports the people behind the sanctuary. Many staff are from nearby Karen hill-tribe villages, long known for their traditional bond with elephants. By joining a sanctuary program, visitors directly help sustain local jobs, cultural heritage, and conservation projects. It’s travel that gives back — to both elephants and the communities that protect them.

Things to do at Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary

At Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai, you can enjoy a variety of activities that connect you with these gentle giants while supporting ethical tourism:

Tourists in Karen shirts feeding elephants at a Chiang Mai sanctuary.

Feed the Elephants

Begin your visit by feeding the elephants fresh fruits like bananas and sugarcane. As you hand them food, guides share fascinating insights into their eating habits, personalities, and health. You’ll notice how gently they take food with their trunks — a humbling reminder of their intelligence and grace.

Preparing elephant food with bananas and rice at Khaolak Ethical Elephant Sanctuary.

Prepare Elephant treats

Join the caretakers in making nutritious “elephant candy” — a mix of rice, fruits, vitamins, and herbs. This hands-on activity lets you experience how keepers maintain the elephants’ diet while ensuring it’s healthy and enriching.

Elephants playing in mud at Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, Thailand.

Mud spa with the Elephants

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and join the elephants for a therapeutic mud bath! Applying mud helps cool their skin and protect them from insects, and visitors are welcome to join the fun. Expect laughter, splashes, and a chance to connect with the elephants in the most natural way possible.

Visitors bathing elephants in a river at Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary, surrounded by lush greenery.

River bath & swim

After the mud spa, walk with the elephants to the nearby river, where you can help rinse them off — and even take a dip yourself! Bathing alongside elephants is a highlight for many guests, combining playfulness, care, and a refreshing escape from the tropical heat.

Visitors walking with an elephant at Khaolak Ethical Elephant Sanctuary.

Walk beside them

Follow the elephants on a short forest trail as they roam, forage, and interact freely. The walk is unhurried and peaceful, giving you time to observe how these majestic creatures live when not performing or confined — just elephants being elephants.

Family feeding elephant at Khaolak Ethical Elephant Sanctuary.

Make Elephant poop paper

Learn how the sanctuary transforms elephant dung into eco-friendly paper. This sustainable workshop walks you through the cleaning, pulping, and pressing process, showing how something discarded can become something beautiful. It’s one of the most creative and environmentally conscious activities offered.

Tourist grinding coffee beans with a traditional grinder on Doi Inthanon tour.

Thai coffee drip demonstration

Watch local artisans from nearby hill-tribe communities brew authentic Thai coffee using the slow-drip method. You’ll see the entire process — from hand-grinding beans to brewing over a cloth filter — and enjoy a freshly brewed cup while learning about Chiang Mai’s local coffee culture.

Group enjoying a cooking class at Lanna Kingdom Elephant Sanctuary, Thailand.

Observe & capture moments

End your visit by observing the elephants in their element — grazing, playing, or cooling off in the river. These quiet moments often reveal their social bonds and personalities. You can take photos or let the sanctuary’s photographer capture memories that last long after you leave.

Plan your visit to Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary

Man interacting with elephants at Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary.

Slots at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary run from 6:30am to 4pm, depending on the program you choose:

  • Feed Me (without transfers): Available between 9am – 4pm. Choose any convenient 1-hour slot.
  • Watch Me (with hotel transfers): Two slots — 6:30am and 11:30am Each session runs for 6 hours, including travel time.
  • Half-Day Tour (with transfers): Starts at 8:30am or 1:30pm, running approximately 6 hours.
  • Full-Day Tour (with transfers): Begins at 8am and lasts around 9 hours, including lunch and return transfers.
  • Feed & Shower: Offered at 9am and 1pm, each lasting 2 hours.

​Find on Map

  • Address: 119/10 Tha Phae Road, Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand.
  • Located about an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai city center, the sanctuary is situated in the scenic countryside. Private transport options are available, but most tours include transfers.
Beach essentials for snorkeling including a hat, towel, sunglasses, flip-flops, and sunscreen.
  • Interact ethically. No riding or tricks, just observing, feeding, and walking with elephants in their natural space.
  • Follow your guide’s cues before touching or feeding. Elephants are gentle but incredibly strong.
  • Skip the snacks. The sanctuary provides all the food they need for a healthy diet.
  • Move calmly and speak softly. Sudden gestures or loud noises can startle the elephants.
  • Dress for fun and mud. Wear light, comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting messy.
  • Bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, sturdy shoes, and a change of clothes.
  • Pack light with insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and waterproof gear.
  • Don’t forget your camera. Photography is welcome, and guides can help capture the moment.

Frequently asked questions about Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai

What makes Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary tours unique?

These tours stand out for offering a fully ethical, hands-on experience with elephants. Unlike traditional elephant camps, the sanctuary promotes responsible tourism — no riding, no tricks, just pure connection and education.

What can I expect during a typical tour at the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary?

You’ll get up close and personal with the elephants — feed them bananas, enjoy a playful mud bath, and join them for a river shower. It’s fun, refreshing, and deeply moving.

Are these elephant experiences ethical?

Absolutely. The sanctuary focuses on elephant welfare, meaning no chains, no riding, and no performances. All activities are designed to support the animals’ natural behaviors.

What types of tours are available at the sanctuary?

You can choose from a half-day, full-day, or combo experience. Some packages include bamboo rafting or a stop at a local waterfall — perfect if you’re up for a little adventure!

How long do the Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary tours last?

Half-day tours typically run 3.5 hours, full-day tours go from 8:30 AM to 5 PM, and combo experiences may last up to 10 hours depending on the itinerary.

Do the tours include hotel pickup and drop-off?

Yes! Complimentary roundtrip transportation is provided for hotels within 5km of Chiang Mai’s Old City. If you’re further out, reach out to check for options.

Where exactly is the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary located?

The sanctuary is nestled in the countryside outside Chiang Mai. The tours depart from 119/10 Tha Phae Road, Chang Khlan — just a short drive from the Old City.

Are meals included in the tours?

Yes, most tours include a traditional Thai lunch and refreshments. Some combo tours even add extra treats during your activities.

Is there an age limit for the Chiang Mai Elephant Sanctuary tours?

The experience is open to all ages, though it’s ideal for kids aged 5 and above. Children must be supervised at all times.

Are the tours wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, due to the terrain and natural environment, the sanctuary isn’t fully accessible for wheelchairs or mobility aids.

Is it safe to be around the elephants?

Totally. The elephants here are well cared for and used to human interaction. Trained guides are always nearby to ensure a safe experience.

What’s the best time of year to take a tour?

Cool season (November to February) offers pleasant weather and lush greenery. But really, these tours are unforgettable year-round — rain or shine.

Are professional photos available?

Some tours include photography services, but it’s best to double-check in advance. You can also bring a waterproof camera for the muddy moments.

Is there any cultural significance to the tour?

Definitely. You’ll learn about Thailand’s elephant heritage, the Karen tribe’s connection with the animals, and how tourism is helping shape a better future.