How to Ethically See Elephants in Chiang Mai

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Chiang Mai, nestled in the mountainous region of northern Thailand, is a haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts. One of the most popular attractions is the opportunity to see and interact with elephants in Chiang Mai. 

However, with the rise in tourism, it’s crucial to ensure that your visit supports ethical practices and promotes the well-being of these majestic creatures. 

When I visited Chiang Mai in 2024, it was very important to me to select a sanctuary that treated elephants with respect. 

Unfortunately, many self-proclaimed “sanctuaries” exploit their elephants, injuring and abusing them. This is why it’s critical to do your research ahead of time and ensure you’re supporting a sanctuary that benefits elephants.

I’ve compiled a guide to help you learn how to ethically see elephants in Chiang Mai, as well as a short list of some great elephant sanctuaries. 

History of Elephants in Thailand

Elephants have been an integral part of Thailand’s history, culture, and identity for centuries. Revered in Thai society, these majestic creatures symbolize strength, wisdom and royalty. The relationship between elephants and humans in Thailand dates back to ancient times.

Elephants in Ancient Warfare

Historically, elephants were used as formidable war animals in the armies of Thai kings. They served as tanks of the ancient battlefield, providing a height advantage and causing fear among enemy troops. One of the most legendary stories is of King Naresuan of Ayutthaya, who, in the 16th century, fought a famous elephant duel with the Crown Prince of Burma, leading to Thailand’s independence from Burmese control. This event is celebrated annually in Thailand and highlights the significant role elephants played in shaping the nation’s history.

Elephants in Logging Industry

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, elephants were vital to Thailand’s logging industry. Their strength and intelligence made them indispensable for dragging felled trees through dense forests. This era saw a substantial increase in the population of domesticated elephants, as they were bred and trained specifically for logging tasks. However, the extensive use of elephants in logging led to a decline in their wild population, as their habitats were destroyed to make way for agricultural and urban development.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Beyond their practical uses, elephants hold a deep cultural and religious significance in Thailand. They are associated with Buddhist and Hindu traditions, often depicted in temple carvings and religious art. The white elephant, in particular, is considered sacred and a symbol of royal power and prosperity. Historically, white elephants were kept by Thai kings as a demonstration of their divine right to rule. These revered animals are featured in numerous festivals and ceremonies, underscoring their importance in Thai culture.

Conservation and Modern Challenges

In the latter half of the 20th century, as Thailand’s economy and society modernized, the roles of elephants began to change. The 1989 logging ban drastically reduced the demand for working elephants, leading to many being displaced and left without traditional roles. This shift necessitated a new focus on conservation and the ethical treatment of elephants. Today, Thailand faces challenges in balancing tourism with the welfare of elephants. The rise of elephant tourism has brought both opportunities and ethical dilemmas, prompting increased efforts to promote sustainable and humane practices in the industry.

Introduction to Seeing Elephants in Chiang Mai

Okay, so, you’re planning a trip to Chiang Mai (yay!) or you’re already there (double yay!). You want to see elephants…but you don’t know where to start.

An elephant sanctuary is the best way to see elephants while learning about their history in Thailand, their behavior and their conservation.

The term “elephant sanctuary” can be divisive in the community. Some people believe this doesn’t exist at all. It’s understandably a difficult area with a fair amount of nuance.

But what does “elephant sanctuary” mean?

Generally, an ethical elephant sanctuary places the elephants’ needs above revenue. These sanctuaries allow elephants to roam within the grounds, which are quite large. 

Many activists believe that the only true ethical experience is to observe the elephants in the sanctuary without touching or bathing them. 

Personally, this is the approach I took when I visited elephants in Chiang Mai in 2024. 

While some people believe that feeding and bathing elephants falls within the realm of “ethical”, I preferred to let the elephants do their thing while I stayed a safe distance away.

How to Identify an Ethical Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai

To identify truly ethical elephant sanctuaries, here is a list of red flags to look out for:

Elephant Riding

This has got to be the biggest red flag when looking at elephant interactions. Ethical sanctuaries do not allow riding, as the practice involves harmful training methods and can cause long-term physical damage to the elephants.

Performances and Shows

Avoid places that have elephants perform tricks, paint, dance or engage in any unnatural behaviors for entertainment. Such activities often involve abusive training techniques and do not align with ethical treatment standards.

Direct Contact and Forced Interactions

Sanctuaries that allow or encourage direct contact, such as hugging, riding, or bathing elephants without any restrictions, should be approached with caution. Ethical sanctuaries prioritize the natural behavior and comfort of the elephants, allowing interactions only when it is safe and appropriate for the animals.

Chains and Restraints

Observe how the elephants are housed and managed. If you see elephants being chained, especially for extended periods, or if they are restrained in any way that limits their natural movements, this is a major red flag. Ethical sanctuaries allow elephants to roam freely and exhibit natural behaviors.

Lack of Transparency

Be wary of sanctuaries that are not transparent about their operations, funding and the origin of their elephants. Ethical sanctuaries should openly share information about their rescue efforts, care practices and how they allocate their funds for elephant welfare and conservation.

Overcrowded Conditions

If a sanctuary has too many elephants for the space available, it can indicate poor living conditions and inadequate care. Ethical sanctuaries provide ample space for elephants to move around freely and have access to natural environments.

Poor Health and Condition of Elephants

Observe the physical condition of the elephants. Signs of poor health, such as visible injuries, malnutrition, and signs of distress or abnormal behavior, suggest inadequate care. Ethical sanctuaries ensure their elephants receive proper medical attention, a nutritious diet, and a stress-free environment.

No Veterinary Care

An ethical sanctuary will have regular veterinary check-ups and medical care for their elephants. If a sanctuary cannot provide this information or lacks a veterinary program, it’s a red flag.

Misleading Marketing

Be cautious of sanctuaries that use misleading marketing tactics, such as using terms like “orphanage” or “rescue” without substantiating their claims. Do thorough research and check for third-party endorsements or reviews from reputable animal welfare organizations.

Lack of Conservation Efforts

Ethical sanctuaries often engage in conservation efforts, education programs, and community outreach to promote elephant welfare beyond their immediate care. If a sanctuary does not participate in or support broader conservation initiatives, it may not be as ethical as it claims.

Now that we’ve reviewed how to identify ethical elephant sanctuaries in Chiang Mai, here are four elephant sanctuaries to consider for your visit.

Recommended Sanctuary: Elephant Nature Park

Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai has been running since the 1990s, offering once-working elephants the chance to rehabilitate and relax in a safe and supportive environment of over 250 acres in Northern Thailand. 

This is the most famous elephant sanctuary in the whole of Thailand. Also, it’s where I personally visited!

That being said, I can recommend Elephant Nature Park. I took advantage of their full-day program, which included a walk through the park in the morning, lunch and then watching the elephants play in the river in the afternoon.

Elephant Nature Park offers:

• Half-day Morning Visit
• Half-day Afternoon Visit
• Overnight Visit

Elephant Nature Park is extremely popular so it is smart to book as far in advance as possible. A half-day visit starts at 2,500 baht.

Recommended Sanctuary: Into the Wild Elephant Camp

Into The Wild Elephant Camp was established in 2016. In an area surrounded by jungle, these elephants are allowed to wander freely within the confines of the sanctuary.

Their mission is to give retired and rescued elephants a home that is safe and sustainable in which there are plenty of space for them to freely roam around and live as naturally as possible

At Into the Wild Elephant Camp, they believe in giving back to the local community that plays an important role in our rescue efforts. It has been almost a decade since they started working and cooperating with the Karen hill tribe members from the communities surrounding the elephant camp in Chiang Mai.

Into the Wild Elephant Camp offers:

• Half-day Morning Visit
• Full-day Visit

A half-day visit starts at 1,700 baht per person

Recommended Sanctuary: BEES – Burm and Emily’s Elephant Sanctuary

BEES – Burm and Emily’s Elephant Sanctuary is a safe, natural home for elephants to just be elephants.

Additionally, BEES provides a home to many rescued cats and dogs and provides Domestic Animal Outreach within the local community, they run sterilization programs and provide care to local animals in need. 

This is a place for elephants to be rescued and retired. Alternatively, they open doors to elephants that need rest/care with the hopes of being able to permanently live out their days at the sanctuary in a natural environment free from exploitation and abuse. 

BEES offers:

• Overnight Visit
• 3-night Visit
• 6-day Visit

These are great options if you want to spend a longer amount of time learning and hanging out with elephants. 

Recommended Sanctuary: Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary

Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary is a non-profit foundation that aims to bring elephants back to the forest. As well as helping the elephants thrive in their natural environment, the NGO aims to provide an alternative living for the mahouts and elephant owners who are often a forgotten side effect in the push for ethical elephant tourism. 

One key focus of Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary’s research is the study of elephant association and behavior. The sanctuary employs observational studies, behavioral analyses, and advanced technologies to gain a deeper understanding of how elephants interact with each other, behave and forage. 

Kindred Spirit Elephant Sanctuary offers:

• Overnight Visit
• Two-night Visit
• Four-night Visit

An overnight visit starts at 10,000 baht.

Looking for a place to stay in Chiang Mai before or after your elephant encounter? I recommend Hostel Lullaby, Stamps Backpackers or About a Bed.

I hope this guide has helped you plan how to ethically see elephants in Chiang Mai!

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