About this experience
The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai promotes a sustainable and ethical way of caring for elephants. Decked out in a traditional Karen attire, you will encounter these rescued gentle giants and have the opportunity to hand-feed them. Following joyful interactions and memorable photos, continue with a relaxing mud spa session and join in bathing the elephants by the river. Your visit also includes a serving of traditional Thai cuisine.
Why you'll love it
What's included
What's included
Not included
What to expect
Hotel pickup
8:00–8:30 AM (full day) / 6:30–7:00 AM or 11:30–12:00 PM (half day)Shared vehicle collects you from your Chiang Mai hotel and heads to the sanctuary.
Arrive at the sanctuary
From 10:30 AM (full day) / 8:30 AM or 1:30 PM (half day)A short 10–15 minute jungle walk leads you to the elephant area, where you change into Karen clothing and receive an introduction to the elephants and their stories.
Meet and interact with the elephants
~1 hourSpend time playing and taking photos with the elephants in their natural jungle surroundings while the in-house photographer captures the highlights.
Traditional Thai lunch
12:00 PM (full day)Sit down to a spread of traditional Thai food and fresh fruit before the afternoon activities begin.
Herbal medicine balls and feeding
1:00 PM (full day)Learn to make herbal medicine balls used in elephant care, then hand-feed the elephants before walking them down to the river.
River bathing and mud spa
1:00–3:00 PM (full day)Bathe and brush the elephants in the river, then join them for a mud spa — swim and take photos before washing off together.
Farewell and return transfer
Drop-off by 5:00 PM (full day)Say goodbye to the elephants, freshen up, and board the shared vehicle back to your Chiang Mai hotel.
Meeting point
Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Office, T. Chang Klan Chaiyapoom Rd, Chang Moi Sub-district, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand
No need to make your own way there — a shared vehicle will collect you directly from your Chiang Mai hotel at the scheduled pickup time. Confirm your hotel address when booking so the team can arrange your pickup.
Open in Google MapsWhat to bring
- Comfortable clothes you don't mind getting muddy
- A change of clothes and a towel
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Closed-toe shoes or sandals suitable for river walking
- Your booking confirmation (mobile or printed)
Know before you go
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Frequently asked questions
Is there any elephant riding at this sanctuary?
No. The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary operates on a strict no-riding policy. Activities focus on natural interaction — feeding, walking, bathing and the mud spa — in line with ethical elephant welfare standards.
Which visit option should I choose — full day, half-day morning or half-day afternoon?
The full-day visit includes the most activities: elephant interaction, herbal medicine ball making, feeding, river bathing, the mud spa and a traditional Thai lunch. The half-day options cover the core interactions and bathing but are shorter. Choose based on how much time you have in Chiang Mai.
Where exactly is the pickup, and what time should I be ready?
Pickup is from your Chiang Mai hotel. Full-day pickups run between 8:00 and 8:30 AM; morning half-day between 6:30 and 7:00 AM; afternoon half-day between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM. Confirm your hotel address at booking and be ready at the start of the window.
Are children welcome, and is there an age limit?
Yes, families are welcome. Children under 4 years old are admitted free of charge and can interact with the elephants under parental supervision. There is no upper age restriction.
Do I need to bring a camera?
Not necessarily. An in-house photographer accompanies the group throughout the day and provides a digital download link to your photos at no extra cost. You are of course welcome to bring your own camera as well.
Can I cancel or reschedule if my plans change?
Cancellation and amendment terms are confirmed at checkout. We recommend checking the policy shown on the booking page before completing your purchase, as terms may vary by ticket type.
Free cancellation
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before your scheduled visit. Cancel in time for a full refund — no questions asked.