Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai, Thailand

One thing you must do in Chiang Mai is spend the day with an elephant! Most people agree that spending a day with elephants is the highlight of their trip to Thailand. It’s a city that’s also close to nature and is known for having the best elephant sanctuaries in Thailand. Many sanctuaries and parks in Chiang Mai rescue elephants from performing and logging industries and give them the freedom to do what they love most: eating their favourite tropical snacks, rolling around in the mud, and swimming in a local river. Spending time with an elephant through the local jungle or nearby rice fields is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and the highlight of the trip to Chiang Mai.

Founded in July 2014, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary houses ~30 rescued elephants and is one of the best elephant sanctuaries snuggled in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It is a 1.5-hour drive away ethical elephant sanctuary near Chiang Mai. Famed for its ethical practices towards elephants, this reserve lets visitors have a memorable interaction with the giant species and experience their life from the closest. The elephant reserve in Chiang Mai offers many options to experience the beautiful elephants of Thailand. The mahouts help people realise incredible life experiences, such as feeding the elephants by hand or bathing elephants in Chiang Mai. 

As you arrive at the Elephant Sanctuary, the guides will give you a basic overview, some information about the elephants and then traditional Karen clothes to wear. You will get to experience all the facets of the elephant reserve and other aspects of Thai culture. Throughout the visit to Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, one will be feeding, bathing, and even playing with the elephants. 

To let visitors have an enjoyable experience, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, Chiang Mai, offers some exciting programmes based on time availability. Either you want to cherish some moments with the giant animals, or enjoy a mud spa with them, or get on a jungle trek with them, or experience the many facets of the reserve while taking delight in the Thai culture simultaneously; here is a treat awaiting you! You may book a package for a full-day visit, or two days and one night, or a day walk with the elephants through their site. The programme session organised by the reserve also educates its visitors regarding how they operate and rescue elephants and how you can also protect other elephants from becoming prey to abusive practices. So, book a package with the reserve, and grab a chance to make a difference to the lives of these lovely species. It is one of the best things to do in Chiang Mai.

A 60 km/1.5 hr drive from Chiang Mai centre to Elephant Jungle Sanctuary from there. If you are not aware of the way to Sanctuary, then worry not! As you book a package with the reserve, you can make use of their transfer facility. You would have to mention the details of your accommodation when you book the package on their website. And voila! You are all set to enjoy a pleasant time with the elephants.

• Full-day tour: THB 2,800 (~INR 7,000) adult; THB 2,100 (~INR 5,250) child (3-10yrs)  
• Half-day: THB 2,000 (~INR 5,000) adult; THB 1,500 (~INR 3,750) child  
• Overnight (2Days/ 1 Night): THB 5,500 (~INR 13,750)  

The Elephant Jungle Sanctuary is open from Monday to Sunday, and you can visit the Jungle Sanctuary at two different times during the day. Sessions: Morning: 6:30 AM-12:30 PM; Afternoon: 1:30-6:30 PM daily (wear Karen clothes provided). The sanctuary also offers an option to spend as much time as you want with the elephants. Hence, there is no formal schedule for it.

• Carry a hat, sunscreen, a towel and a pair of spare clothes.
• You may bring a camera with you, but the sanctuary offers a photography service at no extra charge. The photographer will take photos of you throughout the day and upload the images to Dropbox, which you can then access later.
• If you are planning to book a tour to the sanctuary online, the deal for the visit of Elephant Jungle Sanctuary in Chiang Mai includes two Thai meals, drinking water, food for elephants, and transfer facilities to and from your hotel.
• It is highly instructed not to ride elephants, as the sanctuary does not entertain such practices.

If you’re looking for a meaningful wildlife experience, Elephant Jungle Sanctuary Chiang Mai is truly unforgettable. From feeding and bathing rescued elephants to learning about ethical conservation, every moment feels heartwarming and real. It’s not just another tourist activity — it’s a chance to connect, learn, and give back. So if Chiang Mai is on your Thailand itinerary, make space for this soulful experience. Trust me, you’ll leave with muddy shoes and the happiest memories. Plan your Thailand tour package for the most rewarding cultural experiences that connect you with the kingdom's vibrant soul.