Feel Good Friday - Elephant Nature Park

I’m feeling good this Friday because I'll soon be visiting Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand, an organization known for their compassionate approach to elephant rescue and rehabilitation.

Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Mae Taeng District near Chiang Mai, the mission of Elephant Nature Park (ENP) is to provide sanctuary for rescued elephants while promoting ethical, observation-based tourism. The park is home to more than 75 elephants who have been saved from torturous situations in the logging and tourism industries, along with hundreds of rescued dogs, cats, and water buffalo.

Founded by renowned conservationist Sangduen "Lek" Chailert, ENP is recognized as the first ethical elephant sanctuary of its kind in Asia. The park operates with a strict no-riding, no-performing policy. There are no bull hooks, no tricks, and no exploitation. Instead, elephants roam freely across 101 hectares, interacting with their herds, playing in rivers and mud pits, and living with dignity and respect. Watch the documentary Love & Bananas: An Elephant Story to learn more. 

Many of the elephants at ENP have heartbreaking stories. Some are blind or crippled from years of abuse. Others are orphans who lost their mothers far too young. At the sanctuary, these gentle giants receive the care they need and deserve. That means medical attention from four on-site veterinarians, nutritious food through the Elephant Food Bank, and the freedom to simply be elephants.

Beyond direct rescue, ENP has expanded its impact through several innovative programs. The Saddle Off program provides elephants with the opportunity to roam, socialize, and forage in natural habitats, while allowing visitors to have an authentic and intimate interaction with these gentle giants. The Jumbo Express mobile clinic brings veterinary care to elephants that cannot reach the sanctuary while the Farm to Herd initiative supports sustainable food sourcing.

The best, and most fun, way to support Elephant Nature Park is by booking a visit to the sanctuary in Chiang Mai. You can also amplify their message on social media. Follow ENP on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube and share their stories of rescue and rehabilitation with your network.