Elephant Nature Park Chiang Mai

Elephant Nature Park (ENP) is a renowned elephant sanctuary and rescue center located in Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai province, Northern Thailand, approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Chiang Mai city. Co-founded by the esteemed elephant rights advocate Sangduen “Lek” Chailert, ENP is widely recognized for its ethical approach to elephant tourism and its commitment to the welfare of these magnificent creatures.

What makes Elephant Nature Park special:

• Sanctuary and Rehabilitation: ENP provides a safe and natural home for rescued elephants that have suffered from abuse, injury, or neglect in industries such as logging, street begging, and tourism (including elephant riding and circus shows). Many of the elephants have physical and psychological scars, and at ENP, they are given the opportunity to heal, socialize, and live freely in a compassionate environment.
• No Riding, No Tricks: Unlike many traditional elephant camps, ENP strictly adheres to a “no riding” and “no performing” policy. Visitors are encouraged to observe the elephants in their natural behaviors, allowing them to roam, interact with each other, and simply be elephants.
• Ethical Tourism Model: ENP operates on a responsible tourism model where visitors pay to observe and learn about the elephants, supporting their care and the park’s conservation efforts. This approach aims to educate the public about the challenges facing Asian elephants and promote a more harmonious relationship between humans and animals.
• Beyond Elephants: While elephants are the primary focus, ENP is also a haven for other rescued animals, including hundreds of dogs, cats, birds, and water buffaloes, all of whom receive care and a safe home.
• Education and Awareness: The park offers educational programs for visitors, raising awareness about elephant conservation, the impact of unethical tourism practices, and the importance of protecting endangered species.
• Community and Environment: ENP is actively involved in supporting local communities by purchasing agricultural products locally and creating job opportunities. They also have ongoing environmental initiatives, such as tree planting, to restore and protect the rainforest.
• Variety of Experiences: Visitors can choose from various programs, including full-day visits, half-day mornings, and even overnight stays or longer volunteer programs, providing different levels of immersion and interaction with the park and its residents.

In essence, Elephant Nature Park stands out as a leading example of ethical elephant tourism, offering a truly meaningful and respectful way to experience these incredible animals while contributing to their welfare and conservation.