A Journey to the Heart of Elephant Pride Sanctuary

As a digital nomad, I often find myself seeking out unique experiences that allow me to connect with nature and the local culture. When I heard about the Elephant Sanctuary Tour in the Chang Khlan Sub-district, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. The idea of spending a day with these majestic creatures in their natural habitat was too enticing to resist.

Upon arriving in Chiang Mai, I was met with unexpected flooding in the downtown area, which made accessing my hotel a bit of a challenge. However, the team at the Elephant Pride Sanctuary was incredibly communicative, keeping me updated on the situation and ensuring that my visit would go smoothly. On the day of the tour, our guide, Koko, arrived promptly and prepared us for the adventure ahead.

The drive to the sanctuary was a scenic journey through lush rice paddies and quaint villages. Koko’s commentary on the local landscape and culture added depth to the experience, setting the stage for what was to come.

Walking with Giants

Upon arrival at the sanctuary, we were greeted by the warm sun and the gentle presence of three female elephants: grandmother Bipoh, mother Bunchan, and the playful 18-month-old Jojo. It was a privilege to be the only visitor that day, allowing for an intimate interaction with these gentle giants.

Feeding the elephants was an exhilarating experience. Armed with bags of sugar cane and bananas, I learned to offer food both by hand and directly into their mouths. Initially intimidating, the process quickly became second nature as I felt the gentle nudge of a trunk signaling for more treats.

We embarked on a two-hour walk through the jungle, accompanied by the elephants and Koko’s insightful narration about the local flora and fauna. Watching the elephants interact with their environment—rubbing against trees, tearing down branches, and playing—was a humbling reminder of their intelligence and grace.

A Muddy Adventure

After a delicious lunch made from homegrown ingredients, it was time for the mud bath—a highlight of the day. The elephants seemed to revel in the mud, playfully flinging it onto themselves and us. The experience was both messy and magical, culminating in a refreshing dip in the river to wash off the mud.

The cold water was a welcome contrast to the warm mud, and the elephants seemed to enjoy the playful splashing as much as we did. It was a moment of pure joy and connection, a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.

As the day came to a close, we fed the elephants fresh fruit before making our way back to Chiang Mai. The experience left me with a profound appreciation for these magnificent creatures and the dedicated team at the sanctuary who care for them.

This visit to the Elephant Pride Sanctuary was not just a tour; it was a meaningful interaction with some of the most intelligent and gentle animals on the planet. For anyone traveling through Southeast Asia, I highly recommend making time for this unforgettable experience.