Julie Miller advises supporting elephant camps and sanctuaries that prioritize the welfare of their animals.

Elephants and Thailand are closely linked – these pachyderms have helped shape the Kingdom of Thailand, are part of its history and culture, and an important component of its tourism industry.

Following the ban on logging in Thailand in the late 1980s, most of Thailand's captive elephants [*NB – technically Asian elephants are wild animals, therefore any elephant living under human care is considered 'captive' rather than 'domesticated'] found new employment in the tourism industry, carrying people on organized jungle treks or performing in 'shows' where they demonstrated their incredible intelligence and trainability.

In recent years, however, animal welfare research has shown that many activities once considered acceptable in the name of entertainment are in reality degrading and cruel to the animals. An elephant calf dancing and performing tricks on command may be cute, but the reality is different: this little creature was separated from its mother at an early age, possibly trained using cruel methods, and performs unnatural actions – all for profit.

With tour operators like Intrepid Travel leading the way, the trend is now moving away from supporting elephant camps that offer trekking tours and animal shows; instead, tourists are increasingly given the opportunity to interact with the elephants on a more personal level, to participate in the daily care of the animal and to learn about the special relationship between the elephant and its mahout.

So, if you'd like to experience a meaningful, pleasant, and gentle encounter with an elephant on your next Thailand holiday, you should consider visiting one of these ethical sanctuaries:

1. Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, Chiang Rai: This camp at the Anantara Golden Triangle Resort provides a home and work environment for over 30 former street elephants, their mahouts, and their families. Resort guests can participate in daily elephant care, bathe the animals in the river, learn how to handle elephants like a real mahout, and take part in the "Walk with Giants"—a forest walk with elephants accompanied by a veterinarian or biologist. For more information, visit www.goldentriangle.anantara.com

2. Elephant Nature Park, Chiang Mai: This beautiful sanctuary on the outskirts of Chiang Mai is home to over 30 elephants, many of whom have been victims of mistreatment and abuse. Visitors can observe elephants exhibiting their natural behaviors, interacting within their herd, playing together, and bathing in the river. A daily program includes feeding and bathing times. The park also offers a fantastic volunteer program for those seeking a more immersive and personal experience and who aren't afraid of a bit of hard work! For more information, visit www.elephantnaturepark.org

3. Elephant Haven, Kanchanaburi: Under the direction of Lek Chailert of Elephant Nature Park, this brand-new facility in Sai Yok, 130 kilometers west of Bangkok, has freed six elephants from a local trekking camp. Plans are in place to rehabilitate another 49 elephants from the camp later. Visitors and volunteers are warmly welcomed at this new sanctuary. For more information, visit elephantnaturepark.org.

4. Elephant Hills, Khao Sok: This luxurious tented camp in the rainforest on the edge of Khao Sok National Park in southern Thailand offers an interactive experience with its herd of 12 Asian elephants. Guests can bathe and feed the animals. Two- and three-day jungle safaris are offered, including accommodation, meals, and elephant activities. For more information, visit elephanthills.com.

5. Phang Nga Elephant Park, Phang Nga: This newest elephant park in Phang Nga attracts tourists from Phuket and Khao Lak. The family-run business established its sanctuary to provide the best possible life for its small herd of domesticated elephants. Visitors are invited to interact directly with the animals. Half-day and full-day packages are available, which include caring for an elephant for a day and a Thai cooking class. For more information, visit www.phangngaelephantpark.com

*Photograph by Julie Miller.