National Elephant Day 2025 in Thailand

National Elephant Day in Thailand is dedicated to honoring and protecting these majestic animals. The day celebrates both the elephant and its handler, known as the mahout, with various activities and ceremonies held across parks, zoos, and elephant habitats. To show appreciation, lavish banquets of fruit and sugarcane are prepared for the elephants, a gesture believed to bring them joy and good fortune.

Holiday Highlights

In 1998, the Thai government declared March 13 as National Thai Elephant Day, honoring the elephant as Thailand's national animal and its sacred role in Buddhist culture.

Historically, elephants were integral to Thai life, serving in wars and aiding in agriculture and forestry. Over 100,000 elephants roamed Thailand's forests in the early 20th century, but today, only 1,500 to 2,000 remain in the wild due to habitat loss and poaching. Around 3,000 to 4,000 captive elephants now support the country's tourism industry.

Best Places to Visit

The Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai province, the Thai Elephant Conservation Center (TECC) in Lampang province, and Phuket Elephant Sanctuary are three remarkable destinations where you can celebrate Elephant Day.

The Elephant Nature Park, situated near Chiang Mai, is a leading rescue and rehabilitation center established by renowned elephant rights advocate Saengduean Chailert, known as Lek. Visitors can choose from half-day or full-day trips to the sanctuary, with prices starting at THB 2,500 for a half-day morning visit. The park also offers overnight stays and volunteer opportunities.

The Thai Elephant Conservation Center (TECC) in Lampang province usually hosts the largest Elephant Day festival in the country. This day is dedicated to promoting kindness and compassion. Visitors can join in meaningful activities that honor the importance of elephants in Thai culture and their role in the environment. This celebration also provides an opportunity to appreciate the majestic animals and support ongoing conservation efforts at the TECC.

Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, endorsed by National Geographic and World Animal Protection, is a leader in ethical elephant tourism on the island. Visitors can enjoy a distinctive experience on its six-meter-tall canopy walkway, offering a unique vantage point for observing and interacting with the elephants safely and respectfully.

Each location provides special opportunities to engage with and contribute to elephant conservation efforts in Thailand. On August 12, World Elephant Day is also celebrated in Thailand since 2012. It is also a good occasion to visit one of the conservation centers.