Ethical sanctuaries where you can admire elephants

It is estimated that around half of Thailand's 3,000 elephants still live in the wild. However, it is difficult and not recommended to get too close to the elephants that roam the jungles and rural areas. It is much easier to admire Thai elephants in specially designed sanctuaries or designated parks where sightings are guaranteed. The sanctuaries are managed in a thoughtful and ethical manner, allowing respectful and positive interaction with these creatures.

Some parks and sanctuaries in Thailand offer the chance to ride on the backs of elephants. However, while the idea may be appealing, there is evidence that it is uncomfortable for them and causes long-term suffering. Although large and strong, elephants are not physically adapted or bred to carry people, and the saddles used to ride them can inflict physical damage. Instead, feeding or walking alongside domesticated elephants or watching them bathe can be a great way to discover just how gentle, kind, intelligent and sensitive these amazing animals can be.

There are hundreds of elephant parks and sanctuaries scattered across Thailand, but it's hard to know whether a place calls itself a sanctuary or a rehabilitation centre. Here's a list of ethical sanctuaries in the country for a unique and respectful experience.

For those visiting Chiang Mai, Elephant Nature Park is the perfect place to admire these creatures. It was founded by Lek Chailert, an award-winning conservationist who has been championing the rights and welfare of elephants in Thailand for many years. Lek Chailert also founded the Save Elephant Foundation, an organisation that raises funds for elephant sanctuaries. Here, rescued elephants are free to roam in a beautiful wooded mountain setting; they are not required to work, do tricks or be ridden, but are instead allowed to live a more natural life. Visitors can watch the animals as they bathe in the river and custom-made pools from an observation platform.

Based in northern Thailand, the Mahouts Elephant Foundation offers one of the most original experiences: living in the forest with elephants in an environment dedicated to protecting these majestic animals. The experience offered is highly immersive - visitors can spend between 4 and 6 days observing the elephants, while also having the opportunity to learn more about the life and culture of the village.

Nestling next to Khao Sok National Park, Elephant Hills is home to elephants that used to work in the logging industry. After banning elephants from riding on their backs in 2010, the centre developed an ethical experience to observe the animals as they bathe and eat each day. After the experience, the elephants are returned to a large natural area, where travellers can watch them play, interact and graze. Elephant Hills is also an ideal location for an overnight camping adventure.