Nestled in the verdant landscapes of Phuket’s East Coast and bordering Khao Phra Thrk, Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is a 30-acres haven providing a safe and nurturing environment to 13 Asian Elephants that have endured years of hardship and neglect in the tourism and logging industries
By Vincent Gerards
A NEW BEGINNING FOR ELEPHANTS
Founded in 2016 by Mr. Montri Todtane, a local Phuketian, with the support of Sangduen Lek Chailert from the world-renowned Elephant Nature Park and Save Elephant Foundation in Chiang Mai, Phuket Elephant Sanctuary prioritises the well-being of elephants while offering tourists an inspiring and educational experience. The sanctuary is situated in a lush, expansive area where elephants can roam freely, foraging and socialising as they would in the wild.
Many of the elephants at the sanctuary have been rescued from the logging and tourism industries, where they suffered from overwork and neglect. Here, they receive medical care, nutritious food, and, most importantly, the freedom to live out their lives in peace. Each of the 13 elephants has its own heart wrenching story of survival and resilience.
AN ETHICAL TOURISM EXPERIENCE
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary offers visitors a unique and ethical way to meet Asian elephants. Unlike many elephant camps where tourists can ride, bathe with the elephants, or watch them perform tricks, this sanctuary invites tourists to observe the elephants from a respectful distance as they bathe, play, and socialise in a natural setting. Experienced tour guides foster a deeper understanding of elephant behaviour and the importance of protecting Asian elephants, whose population has decreased from over 100,000 to less than 8,000 in the past century, primarily due to habitat loss, human-elephant conflict, and exploitation for logging and tourism.
A typical visit to the sanctuary begins with an educational video about the plight of elephants in captivity and the mission of the sanctuary. Visitors then have the opportunity to feed the elephants their daily basket of fruits before embarking on a guided tour of the sanctuary. The tour includes a walk along beautiful jungle trails and the sanctuary’s canopy walkway, the first of its kind in Thailand. This 500-metre elevated pathway winds through lush treetops, providing a serene and immersive experience with a breathtaking vantage point to observe the elephants in their natural habitat from above. The walkway highlights the sanctuary’s commitment to creating an environment that prioritises the welfare of the elephants and is part of every experience at Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
BEHIND THE SCENES: THE CARE AND REHABILITATION PROCESS
Caring for rescued elephants is no small feat. The sanctuary employs a dedicated assistant veterinarian and a team of mahouts (caretakers) who work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of each elephant. Many of the elephants arrive at the sanctuary with serious health issues, such as foot infections, malnutrition, and psychological trauma. The rehabilitation process involves extensive medical treatment, a balanced diet, and plenty of rest.
In addition to medical care, the sanctuary provides many opportunities for the elephants to be mentally and physically stimulated. These include several streams and small lakes for mud baths and swimming, an abundance of lush greens for foraging, 30 acres of space to roam around, and social interactions with other elephants. The goal is to recreate a natural and stimulating environment that promotes the elephants’ physical and psychological health.
VISITING PHUKET ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
For those planning a visit to Phuket’s East Coast, a trip to Phuket Elephant Sanctuary is a must. The sanctuary offers a variety of tours and experiences, including half-day and full-day visits, as well as exclusive private tours for a more personalised experience. All proceeds from these tours go directly towards the care of the elephants and the rescue of additional pachyderms, ensuring that each visitor’s contribution has a lasting impact.
By choosing to visit Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, tourists are not only supporting a great cause but also experiencing the beauty and majesty of elephants in a setting that respects their natural behaviour and well-being. It is a rare and rewarding opportunity to connect with these incredible animals in a way that is both ethical and enriching.
+66 (0)62 767 7111
phuketelephantsanctuary.org
