Elephant Conservation Centre

The Elephant Conservation Centre is the most authentic place to see elephants being trained for forest work 37km northwest of Lampang on Highway 11, To get there go with a bus from Chiang Mai to Lampang and ask the bus conductor to drop you at Suan Pa (Forest Park) Thung Kwian, 70km from Chiang Mai.

You better check at the tourist office in Chiang Mai if the centre is open, because on certain days and in the dry season it might be closed. By promoting ecotourism the centre is providing employment for the elephants and enabling Thai people to continue their historically fond relationship with these animals.

Daily shows take place at 9.30 am & 11 am plus Sat & Sun 2 pm; price: around B50, but please call 054 -227051 for confirmation. You can witness the the elephants walking, working, and bathing. It is also possible to feed the elephants, so do not forget to bring bananas.