Ethical elephant sanctuary and rescue center where visitors can observe, feed, and bathe rescued elephants in their natural habitat. This award-winning facility focuses on education and conservation, providing a humane alternative to elephant riding attractions.
Elephant Nature Park is an elephant rescue and rehabilitation centre situated in the Mae Taeng Valley about 60 kilometres north of Chiang Mai city, in the Mae Rim district. Founded in the 1990s by conservationist Lek Chailert, the park shelters dozens of rescued elephants — most with histories of logging work, tourist camps, street begging, or medical neglect. The model is resolutely non-exploitative: no riding, no painting, no performing. Visitors walk alongside the herd, offer bananas and watermelon from feeding platforms, and may join the elephants in a river bathing area where the animals wade, spray, and roll freely while visitors stand nearby in the shallows. The 250-acre property also operates dog and cat rescue facilities caring for hundreds of animals, which visitors encounter throughout the grounds. Full-day visits include transport from Chiang Mai, a vegetarian buffet lunch, and guided explanations of each elephant's history and behaviour from trained staff. Half-day visits cover the morning feeding and river time. Overnight and multi-day volunteer programmes allow deeper involvement in food preparation, enrichment activities, and conservation education. Advance booking is strongly recommended — day visit capacity is limited and popular slots fill weeks ahead during high season. The park has received international recognition from wildlife welfare organisations and is consistently ranked among Asia's most ethical elephant experiences.
Good to know
- Hours
- Full day programs 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Best for
- families, animal lovers, ethical tourism, nature
Location
209/2 Sridom Chai Road, Mae Rim, Chiang Mai 50180
19.0519, 98.9449 View on map
Highlights
- Close-contact feeding sessions with rescued elephants using fresh fruit on open platforms
- River bathing time where elephants and visitors share the water naturally
- Personalised elephant histories and behaviour explanations from dedicated mahouts and guides
- Dog and cat rescue sanctuary integrated throughout the property — over 400 animals on-site
- Overnight and volunteer programmes offering multi-day conservation participation
Tips for visiting
- Book well in advance
- Wear clothes you don't mind getting muddy
- No riding allowed - observation only
- Includes vegetarian lunch and transportation
When to visit
The park operates year-round. The cool season (November to February) is most comfortable for walking in the heat. Visiting during the week rather than at weekends results in slightly smaller visitor groups and a calmer atmosphere for the elephants.
Accessibility
The park's terrain is partly uneven grass, mud, and riverbank slopes that present challenges for wheelchair users. The feeding platforms are reachable on foot. The river bathing area involves walking down a gradual bank. The park encourages visitors with mobility questions to contact the team directly before booking to discuss what access is possible.
Frequently asked questions
Is elephant riding available at Elephant Nature Park?
No. Elephant riding, performing, and painting are not offered and are not consistent with the park's ethical model. The experience is based on walking with elephants, feeding them, and observing them in a natural setting.
How far in advance should visitors book?
At least two to four weeks in advance is recommended, especially from November to February. The park limits daily visitor numbers to protect the elephants' wellbeing, and popular date-slots sell out quickly.
What should visitors wear and bring?
Comfortable clothes that can get wet and muddy are essential. Closed-toe shoes or water sandals work well for the river section. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent are all advisable. The day programme includes lunch.