"Ban Pu Ter" Elephant Sanctuary in Mae Sot, Thailand Offers Sabai Sabai Lifestyle

        The elephant is considered to be a highly revered animal in Thai culture and is commonly associated with the prestige of The Great King of Thailand’s historical tale.  His Majesty King Naresuan’s epic battle while on top of his war elephant is famous for having protected the Kingdom and Thai people, so much so that Thai elephants received the highest honour for bravery on the battlefield; “Chao Phraya,” the highest widely conferred rank of Thai nobility.

        Every year, March 13th is marked as “Elephant Day,” in which every Thai person should reflect on their love of elephants and contribute to help conserve the status of elephants to ensure their survival so that they may remain throughout the following generations forever.

        “Ban Pu Ter” is a small village in Mae Sot District, Tak Province.  It is a place for tourists and elephant lovers who are searching for new experiences and the chance to befriend elephants.  The vibe there will cause visitors to get in touch with the way of life of the “mahouts,” the caretakers of elephants who have passed their skills onto numerous generations for hundreds of years.  Visitors can partake in activities with elephants that go beyond just feeding and taking selfies with the majestic creatures.

        The area itself is regarded as an elephant sanctuary which places the well-being of the animals as a top priority.  There is no service set up to ride the elephants because this is considered to be a form of maltreatment which causes them to experience stress.  However, there are tours in which visitors can travel alongside with elephants to feed or shower them and experience the life and rhythm of an elephant’s daily life.

        Other activities include getting a massage, visiting the spa, and giving the elephants a mud bath or shower.

        Visitors can feed freshly cut bananas for the elephants to munch on.

        Also, visitors can practice making a traditional herb formula to give to the elephants when they need help with their gastrointestinal tracts.  The schedule even includes naps because every activity is based on the lifestyle selected by the elephants, not the mahout.  This aspect emphasizes the happiness of the elephants and keeps them content.

        When joining a tour, visitors choose an elephant of their liking.  The rope is linked to their newfound “buddy” so that they can walk along the path together.  Everyone must wait though for the mahout so that they can feed, shower, or look after the elephant together with the elephant’s caretaker.  This is important because the mahout’s role is key to enjoying your experience safely.

        “Ban Pu Ter” might not initially be at the top of every tourist’s travel list, but once they experience the connection felt while being in the presence of such noble creatures, then they will immediately be forever transformed.

        For any inquiries, call 094-605-8492, 082-162-8127 or LINE ID: retro0932864291 and Facebook: Retro Elephant Camp Puter