Experience the Majestic Maerim Elephant Sanctuary
Discover the beauty and wisdom of elephants at Maerim Elephant Sanctuary, where compassion meets adventure in Chiang Mai.
The Maerim Elephant Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Located just a short drive from the lively city of Chiang Mai, this sanctuary focuses on the rehabilitation and care of elephants rescued from harsh conditions. Here, visitors can interact with elephants in a natural setting, learning about their behaviors and the importance of conservation efforts. The sanctuary encourages a hands-on experience where tourists can feed, bathe, and even walk alongside these majestic creatures, emphasizing the importance of ethical tourism. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about understanding these intelligent animals and supporting their well-being. In addition to the elephant experiences, the sanctuary is surrounded by beautiful landscapes that showcase the stunning beauty of northern Thailand. As you wander through the sanctuary, you’ll be greeted by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The knowledgeable staff provides insightful information about the elephants’ life stories and the mission of the sanctuary, creating a deeper connection between visitors and these incredible animals. The sanctuary operates daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing plenty of time for tourists to immerse themselves in this unique experience. Be sure to plan your visit ahead of time, as the sanctuary can be quite popular among tourists seeking a responsible way to engage with elephants. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Thailand, the Maerim Elephant Sanctuary promises a heartwarming experience that leaves a lasting impact.
Local tips
- Book your visit in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and interacting with animals.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful moments with the elephants, but ensure to respect their space.
A brief summary to Maerim Elephant Sanctuary
- 31, Mae Rim District, Ki Lek, Chiang Mai, 50180, TH
- +66992439111
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-6 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Chiang Mai city center, head north on Route 107 (also known as the Chiang Mai - Fang Road). Continue on Route 107 for about 16 kilometers. When you reach the Mae Rim area, look for the signs for Mae Rim Elephant Sanctuary. Turn onto the road marked with the sanctuary's signs and follow it for approximately 3 kilometers. The sanctuary will be on your right at '31 Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180'. Parking is available on site.
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Public Transportation (Songthaew)
To reach Maerim Elephant Sanctuary via public transport, head to the Chang Phueak bus station in Chiang Mai. Look for a songthaew (red truck) that is headed towards Mae Rim. The fare is typically around 40-50 THB. Inform the driver you want to go to Maerim Elephant Sanctuary. The journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive in the Mae Rim area, you may need to walk a short distance (about 1 kilometer) if the songthaew does not drop you directly at the sanctuary.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
For convenience, you can take a taxi or use a ride-hailing service like Grab. Simply set your destination to 'Maerim Elephant Sanctuary, 31 Mae Rim District, Chiang Mai 50180'. The trip from Chiang Mai city center will take about 30-40 minutes and typically costs around 300-400 THB depending on traffic conditions.
Attractions Nearby to Maerim Elephant Sanctuary
- Air Diamond Cafe & Hotel เชียงใหม่
- Lanna Mini Zoo
- Chedi Mae Krua Market
- Giardino Di San Sai
- Baan Chang Elephant Park
- Dantewada
- Maerim Elephant Home
- Phoenix Adventure Park
- Elephant POOPOOPAPER Park Chiang Mai
- Zipline Maerim
- Karen Village
- Tiger Kingdom
- X-Centre
- Bai Orchid & Butterfly Farm
- Siam Insect Zoo
Landmarks nearby to Maerim Elephant Sanctuary
- Namtok Bua Tong-Nam Phu Chet Si National Park
- จุดชมวิวสามแยกบ้านใหม่ Ban Mai Intersection Viewpoint
- Mok Fa Waterfall
- Golden Tower Observation Deck
- Huai Tueng Thao Waterfall
- Doi Pui Summit
- Hidden Village Chiang Mai
- Doi Pui Camping Area
- Doi Pui Nature Trail
- The Highland People Discovery Museum
- Montha Than Waterfall Trailhead
- Doi Pui Water Fall Park
- Doi Suthep
- San Ku
- Doi Pui View Point