Experience the serene beauty of Chiangmai Mountain Sanctuary in Thailand. Nestled in the lush mountains, this sanctuary provides a haven for those seeking relaxation and connection with nature. Enjoy breathtaking views, rejuvenating activities, and the rich biodiversity of this tranquil environment.
Chiangmai Mountain Sanctuary is a hidden gem tucked away in the majestic mountains of Northern Thailand. This pristine retreat embodies the essence of tranquility and natural beauty, serving as an optimal destination for nature lovers and those looking to rejuvenate their spirits. Surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes, visitors can immerse themselves in the soothing atmosphere that the sanctuary radiates.
As soon as you arrive, the serene sounds of nature envelop you, creating a peaceful ambiance perfect for unwinding. The sanctuary is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, inviting wildlife enthusiasts and photographers to explore its vibrant ecosystems. Whether you enjoy hiking along scenic trails or simply wish to relax with a panoramic view, Chiangmai Mountain Sanctuary caters to all types of adventurers.
Engaging in wellness activities is an integral part of the sanctuary experience. Participate in yoga sessions or meditation practices designed to harmonize your body and mind with the surrounding nature. The sanctuary emphasizes sustainable practices, ensuring that your visit supports the preservation of the environment and local wildlife.
Additionally, Chiangmai Mountain Sanctuary serves as a cultural hub where guests can delve into the rich traditions of the region. Local guides offer insights into the indigenous cultures, providing an authentic connection to the area’s heritage. From traditional craftsmanship to culinary experiences, the sanctuary opens the door to the heart of Thailand’s rich culture.
A visit to Chiangmai Mountain Sanctuary is not merely a retreat; it is an opportunity to forge a deeper connection with nature and oneself. Embrace the chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing the tranquil mountains to rejuvenate your spirit and inspire your creativity. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Chiangmai Mountain Sanctuary is the ideal destination to experience the serene beauty of Thailand’s highlands.
Chiangmai Mountain Sanctuary (เมืองเชียงใหม่, ไทย) - รีวิว - ThailandAgoda.com
Attractions
6 miles
0.00 miles
0.04 miles
1.49 miles
1.80 miles
2.06 miles
2.06 miles
2.37 miles
2.46 miles
2.50 miles
2.50 miles
Chiangmai Mountain Sanctuary is perched on a picturesque hilltop overlooking Thailand
I visited this elephant “sanctuary” last week with my family, seeing elephants has always been on my bucket list! On arrival to Chiang Mai we were recommended the elephant mountain sanctuary by the staff in the airport, who told us we would get discount. After reading good reviews about the sanctuary I decided to let the airport staff book it for me and my family. I am very skeptical about anything involving wild animals and tourists so when I was told the elephants were rescued and didn’t get ridden, it sounded good to me. When we arrived at the mountain sanctuary I realised it was at the back of a local village where I saw long neck tribes and next door to elephant rides, both where not included in the information! This instantly made me angry as I chose the sanctuary because I didn’t want to see anybody riding them! And I didn’t want to put my money into the long neck tribes as they are forced by the Thai government to carry on the unhealthy tradition just to attract tourists. Despite this the elephants I met where absolutely, incredibly beautiful and I was so happy to finally be admiring them up close. However I soon realised these elephants were not free, and they were forced to do things they clearly didn’t want, just to make us happy. The good thing was that the elephants got fed a lot and didn’t get ridden (apparently) Although i couldn’t help but think the sanctuary and the elephant rides next door where the same business! As soon as an elephant refused to get in the water or walk up a hill to please us, they would get prodded with sticks, pulled at their ears and shouted at constantly which made my whole experience ruined. I was happy to just watch the elephants and feed them I didn’t want them to be forced. Overall the elephants were amazing ! But the workers spoilt the experience for me.
I’ll start with the good, as there was some…. the booking process for the Chiang Mai Mountain Sanctuary – Full day program was quick and smooth with good communication unfortunately everything from that point forward was average to very bad. (Note the problem may be the tour booked and not PM Tours, however, they were the company we booked through)Told we had to be ready for 8:30-9:00, so dutifully waiting outside the hotel. At 9:00 the hotel phoned to ask why we had not been picked up – told it was due to traffic and we were the last pickup, will be there in 15 mins. At 9:20 told 10 more mins. At 10am eventually picked up.Arrived at the elephant ‘sanctuary” at 11am (forgot to stop at the elephant poo paper factory, where my daughter was looking forward to getting some paper) and things were underway already. Feed the elephants some bananas and then moved to an area to make medicine, however, they had “lost’ the bucket/dish that they use and spend 15-20 mins looking for it – no communication or switching to something else, just left waiting and waiting until they were asked if were just going to be waiting all day. Eventually they said let’s eat. The food was basic but edible – not spicy and vegetarian so OK for most people. After food, shown how to cut sugarcane and by this time they had found the bucket/dish to make the medicine. Made the medicine and then went to rub mud on the elephant however, the elephant did not want to go in the mud willingly, so was shouted at and pushed until it did – at this point it was obvious that it was not about free choice for the elephant so I refused to get in the mud.The weather then changed and it rained quite heavy – this must be a very rare occurrence (sarcastic) as they didn’t have any backup plan other than just get under cover. After a further 20-30 mins with no explanation of what we were going to do or background information on the sanctuary/ elephants etc, they were asked and forced to come up with a suggestion – ‘we could walk them around our land’, so off we set – bear in mind that the site is on a hill and the earth is without cover, heavy rain (get the picture) – numerous people slipped over in the mud and not a single concern over safety was given or check if the guest were OK. While trekking around the very small plot, we walked through the “long neck” village, which was next door and past a elephant riding location (so close to the “sanctuary” that it was hard to believe the insistence that they were a different company. At the end of the “trek’, it rained again, so back under cover – the last elephant wanted to join the herd, but was shouted at and ordered to remain with us, again, not free choiceI know that rain cannot be helped and is not under the control of the “sanctuary”, however, what they do when it does rain is wholly under there control and there was no backup planWe were back at the hotel for 3:40 not 5:30, though given the rain and what they had us doing (waiting under cover with no explaining going on) it was by far the better answerSorry to say it, but avoid
The experience has been amazing❤❤!! We got picked up at the hotel by Nina Ket, our guide who was super warm and kind. After 1 hour driving we got to the beautiful Sanctuary. Surrounded by nature and Tallinn tribes actually living in the montains, this tour is a must if you are travelling to Chiang Mai. As soon as we arrived to the small village they welcome us with a fresh thai menu and fruit and gave us clothes to get changed before starting the adventure. Once ready, we started to feed the Elephants (Changs) with bananas and the local people (Tallinn long neck) showed us how to prepare the sugar cane to continue with the changs menu… After everyone was full and happy, we went for a mud bath and we covered the changs and ourselves (dirty fun). Straight after that we did a short walk to the river where we all had a swim and chill before coming back to real life… Definately worthy experience!! We will recommend to everyone!! ❤❤🐘🐘🐘❤❤
I really enjoyed visiting this sanctuary , was picked up at hotel on time and it was a plesent drive , there was a meal ready for us which was yummy, we fed and bathed the elephants then swam with them in a river, the elephants seemed to be free(ish) always had keepers around them and were in certain meeting place, and happy at all times , certainly a world away from other elephant activities I have heard about , I do think things are chainging for the better.
We went to the Chang Mai mountains Sanctuary after an agency suggested it to us. This was our first visit at an Elephant “sanctuary”. Reviews online where mainly positive so we were hopeful. We read online that ethical sanctuaries wouldn’t let you ride on elephants, wouldn’t force animals to performe for tourists and would not force animals to behave unnaturally.While on the way to the sanctuary our tour guide explained us all the tricks to stay safe, not even a word about rescuing and caring for elephants. It was all about us.First thing we saw few meters before arriving was a man riding on an elephant. The man was probably part of the tribe that should be in charge of taking care of the elephants. The premises were not good at all.Once we arrived they made the elephants come out and greet us. The elephants seemed to be kept in a pretty small area, not free to move around much. They hit them with sticks and pulled them from the ears.We felt extremely sorry for the creatures and very frustrated for choosing this place.PLEASE, DO NOT PICK THIS ONE. READ AND GET AS MANY INFO AS POSSIBLE WHEN CHOOSING A SANCTUARY. DON’T MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE WE MADE.Peace and love 🙂
After travelling through South Africa and seeing what a REAL sanctuary for Elephants is (hundreds of kilometers to roam freely, no forced human interaction, etc.), we heavily debated visiting one of these around Chiang Mai to see Asian elephants.WE COMPLETELY REGRETTED GOING.First of all, Elephants are roaming animals, and this “Sanctuary” looked to be the size of someone’s backyard (anyone who said it was “big enough” has no clue about Elephant habits.)Worst of all, the Elephants are clearly kept in pens at night, which we could clearly see (why else would they have pens?).Now, take a look at all the great pictures online – see how much fun everyone is having? That’s because the guide does nothing but get you to pose and takes a ton of pictures, with the sole intention of posting them online to trap other tourists. See how many people are “hugging” the trunks? That’s because the tour guide was INCESSANTLY telling people to do this. Do you think everyone thought about this on their own? Think the elephants like this? OF COURSE NOT…but it sure makes a good instagram picture. Ugh.The half day “tour” consisted of being in a car most of the day (they lie about actual driving time, and you WILL be stuck in traffic coming back) with an hour or so to “play” with these elephants. They are marched into the mud, the river and fed by the tourists. The ONLY point is to get those instagram worthy pictures, but it’s all fake people! You are basically taking your turn for your photo with the poor Elephants who never smiled while we were there. (yes, elephants can smile! but only happy ones!!)In the mud pit, the guide smeared mud (full of elephant urine and feces) on us, despite me saying repeatedly not to do so. He thought it was funny, and then took out his camera. (again, all for the darn pictures!!). He told us we could bathe in the river after so no big deal – but any knowledgeable traveler knows this is NOT a good idea, just ask your doctor, but being unwillingly covered in Elephant feces and urine, I had no choice, did I? We were told we could shower later, which turned out to be a bucket of water in a shared outdoor bathroom.Lastly, they kept repeating how much fun the Elephants were having being splashed, while the handlers were slickly stopped them from leaving via a cane in front of their feet.(elephants can’t see far in front of them.)No, they don’t get whipped or piked, but pay attention and they are absolutely being controlled.Lastly, the driver lied to guests while being late to pick them up, he called them and told them there was traffic, when really we were in the van and there was no traffic, they were late because other guests were late for pickup. Why lie?! (Ive noted this in other reviews as excuses for being late too)I feel sick to my stomach having gone to this so called “sanctuary” and giving them money. It’s clear my hotel which recommended this “ethical” sanctuary was getting kickbacks… Other reviews seem to be from people who don’t realize how much space an elephant actually needs.As someone said “Ethical, or daily tourist interactions – pick one.” Please, please reconsider giving money to these companies that only want money and don’t truly care for the Elephants. Do your research carefully!
It was really an amazing experience and the elephants was great and gave me soooo much love! My only problem is that they operate like a sausage machine. They book WAAAAAY to much tourists at the same time. This then lead to a bunch of people that is just to much for their setup to handle. There was so many people that I struggled to get proper pictures, because people will either push you out of the way to get to the elephants or they will stand in front of my camera or they will just blatantly start feeding the same elephant i am busy feeding. My suggestion to this place is to arrange more timings throughout the morning. Like make it that there is a 8h00, 9h30, 11h00, 12h30 etc etc trips throughout the day. In this way you feed the elephants literally the whole day and there is never so many people that it is to crowded! But otherwise i was happy and I can see that the elephants are well taken care off. Also the elephants can do whatever they want to!
I went this sanctuary the tour guide, Goryar, communicate her best to explain thingThe experience was very lais back, no pressures unlike the other group tours I’ve booked before. The lunch is also superb and the tour guide, Goryar, communicate her best to explain things in English which is very nice. Worth the price so far
Had a great half day here, our guide Lee was very knowledgable, lovely friendly girl. It was so nice to be so close to the elephant, who seemed very happy. Both the guide and the sanctuary took plenty of photos, which were put onto the facebook page so there was no pushing for you to buy from them.I don’t understand some of the reviews that say there were too many people, not set times. We had a small group that were there all afternoon, we fed 5 elephants, then mud bath and river with just 3 elephants, so that they can give the others a rest. Lunch wasn’t too bad, but I didn’t go for food!!The highlight of my holiday.
Worst sanctuary I ever saw. They give DRUGS to the elephants to make them more calm. Witch is unethical and I talked to the boss for a refound because for sure I didn’t know that was a scam and didn’t want them to have my money when I see the environment that they are in. She was laughing to me saying that she doesn’t care about us and not even the elephant. Just for money I suppose 😒Was the worst and heartbreaking moment for us, we stopped the tour and waited to leave 💔I do not recommend this fake sanctuary it’s an attrap tourist with no values for the elephants. If I could put zero star for sure I would do it .