Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a city located in northern Thailand that is known for its beautiful temples, night markets, and outdoor activities. But what many visitors may not know is that Chiang Mai is also a sanctuary for rescued elephants. Elephant Nature Park is a sanctuary located just outside of Chiang Mai that provides a home for rescued elephants that have been mistreated in the logging or tourism industries. Visitors can spend a day or more at the sanctuary, where they can interact with the elephants in their natural habitat, feed them, and even bathe them in the river.
Another elephant sanctuary in the area is the Thai Elephant Conservation Center, which is located about an hour’s drive from Chiang Mai. Visitors to this sanctuary can learn about elephant behavior and care, watch elephant shows, and take elephant rides through the forest.
For those who want to see elephants in the wild, Chiang Mai offers several trekking opportunities where visitors can see elephants in their natural habitat. The Mae Sa Elephant Camp offers trekking through the jungle on the back of an elephant, while the Elephant Nature Park offers a more natural and humane experience where visitors can observe elephants in their natural environment.
Apart from elephants, Chiang Mai also offers a variety of other activities for visitors, such as exploring ancient temples like Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang, visiting the famous Sunday Walking Street Night Market, and experiencing the unique Northern Thai cuisine, which includes dishes like Khao Soi and Sai Oua.
In conclusion, Chiang Mai is not only a city with a rich culture and natural beauty, but it is also a sanctuary for rescued elephants. Visitors can spend a day or more interacting with these majestic animals and learning about their behavior and care. Chiang Mai truly is a city that offers something for everyone.