Imagine strolling through a 1.44 km stretch of lush Thai forest, surrounded by the gentle rumble of elephants roaming free. 🐘✨
At Elephant Forest Phitsanulok in Thailand, a game-changing approach is unfolding: no more rides, no more shows—just five magnificent female elephants exploring their natural habitat. This isn’t your typical tourist attraction; it’s a living sanctuary where respect and care come first.
Meet Si-bua, a 50-year-old elephant once marked by the scars of the logging industry. She spent years in silence, but now she’s the sanctuary’s “wild teacher,” guiding visitors through authentic elephant behaviors—everything from quiet strolls to playful water splashes.
With support from World Animal Protection, the sanctuary tailors care plans for each elephant and transforms mahouts from controllers into caregivers. The result? Strong bonds built on trust, happier elephants, and a sustainable income for local communities.
What started as a single site has inspired over 13 camps across Thailand to adopt this ethical tourism model. It’s proof that animal welfare and economic stability can thrive hand in hand. 🌱🎉 And with World Animal Day on October 4 just around the corner, it’s the perfect reminder that compassion for animals is a journey worth celebrating.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
