Living Green Elephant Sanctuary, Bangkok- Visitor’s Guide

Get all the essential information before visiting Bangkok’s Living Green Elephant Sanctuary.

Learn about the ethical elephant encounters, ticket types, best visiting times, activities to enjoy, and what to expect from this unforgettable, educational experience with rescued elephants.

Top Tickets

# Elephant Sanctuary and Kanchanaburi Tour
# Elephant Sanctuary & Erawan Waterfall Tour
# Ethical Elephant Care and Buffet Lunch

Book your tour today for a chance to connect with rescued elephants, enjoy unique activities, and support ethical conservation efforts!

What is the Living Green Elephant Sanctuary?

What sets Living Green apart is its dedication to elephant welfare and sustainable tourism. 

The sanctuary takes in elephants rescued from harsh conditions, like those used for entertainment or work. Once here, they get to live out their days in a relaxed, natural habitat. 

Here, elephants roam freely, live without chains, and are free from the exploitative practices seen in many other places. National Geographic has even featured sanctuaries like this, highlighting their importance in elephant conservation and ethical tourism.

Visitors can feed the elephants, learn about their behavior, and even walk alongside them — all in a way that’s respectful of the elephants’ natural needs.

As BBC Travel notes, ethical elephant sanctuaries like this one play a crucial role in promoting responsible tourism and creating awareness about the importance of conservation.

Location: Living Green Elephant Sanctuary

The Living Green Elephant Sanctuary is located in Chonburi Province, about 1.5 hours southeast of Bangkok, Thailand.

• Address: 8 Rachadamnoen Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Amphoe Mueang Chiang Mai, Chang Wat Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
• Travel Time from Bangkok: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car or guided tour.

How to Book Your Elephant Sanctuary Tour Tickets

The best and easiest way to experience the elephant sanctuary is by booking your tour tickets online in advance. 

Booking ahead ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience, as many sanctuaries do not have official ticket counters, and walk-in options can sometimes be more expensive or confusing.

Most tours include

• Round-trip transportation from Bangkok or Pattaya
• Interaction with elephants (feeding, bathing, trekking)
• Local meals and refreshments
• A guided tour of the sanctuary
• Optional activities like souvenir creation or traditional clothing for the experience

Benefits of booking online tickets

• Convenient round-trip transport with hotel pick-up and drop-off
• No need to wait in line or deal with complex ticketing
• Ethical and responsible elephant encounters
• Instant booking confirmation delivered straight to your email
• Easy-to-show mobile ticket—no printing necessary!

Ticket & Tour Options to Living Green Elephant Sanctuary

From Bangkok: Elephant Sanctuary and Kanchanaburi Tour

Duration: 10 hours

Tour Highlights:

• Visit ElephantsWorld and interact with rescued elephants by feeding them and participating in bathing activities.
• Explore Kanchanaburi and visit historical landmarks like the Bridge on the River Kwai, learning about the region’s role in WWII.
• Full-day tour with round-trip transportation from Bangkok, providing a combination of animal care and historical exploration.

Tour available in: English

Pickup: Optional hotel pickup in Bangkok or meet at River City Bangkok.

Best for: Those seeking a mix of wildlife experience and historical sightseeing, with a chance to connect with elephants in a meaningful way.

Price: From ฿2,480 (approx. $76), varies by group size and pickup location

Bangkok: Elephant Sanctuary & Erawan Waterfall Tour

Duration: 12 hours

Tour Highlights:

• Visit the ElephantsWorld Sanctuary for a hands-on experience with elephants.
• Bathe, feed, and interact with the elephants, contributing to their well-being.
• Trek through Erawan National Park and relax at the stunning Erawan Waterfall.
• Eco-conscious tour with carbon offset credits and sustainable practices.

Tour available in: English

Pickup Included: Pickup from your hotel or registered accommodation in Bangkok (specific pickup details will be confirmed the evening before)

Best for: Nature lovers and ethical travelers seeking an immersive experience with elephants and a visit to Thailand’s scenic Erawan Waterfalls.

Price: From ฿5,678 (approx. $175), varies by group size and pickup location

Bangkok Highlights: Ethical Elephant Care and Buffet Lunch

Duration: 6 to 7 hours

• Visit the Bangkok Elephant Park and interact with elephants in a responsible and ethical setting.
• Prepare food for the elephants and watch them enjoy their treats.
• Gain insights into the conservation efforts protecting Thailand’s elephants.

What’s Included:

• Round-trip transportation (if option selected)
• Welcome drink upon arrival
• Live guide explaining the elephants’ history, care, and conservation efforts
• Uniform for elephant care activities
• Buffet lunch with authentic Thai dishes
• Day tour insurance

Important Information:

• Pickup locations only available within Bangkok City
• This is a fully ethical experience — no elephant riding, forced bathing, or performances.

Tour available in: English

Pickup Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off available within Bangkok City.

Best for: Animal lovers, families, and eco-conscious travelers seeking a responsible and authentic elephant experience.

Price: From ฿2,400 (approx. $74), varies by group size and pickup location

From Bangkok: Living Green Elephant Sanctuary Day Trip

Duration: 3 to 7.5 hours

Tour Highlights:

• Choice of two sessions: Morning (7 am to 2:30 pm) or Afternoon (11 am to 6:30 pm).
• Ethical interactions with elephants — no riding, no chains, and no performances.
• Hand-feed and interact with the elephants in their natural habitat.
• Trek through the jungle with elephants, observing their natural behaviors.
• Bathed with the elephants in their favorite mud and water baths.
• Local meal included with a traditional Ancient Pad Thai made from local ingredients.

What’s Included:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (depending on selected package)
• Traditional Mo Hom clothing provided for the elephant interaction
• All necessary equipment for trekking and elephant care activities

Important Information:

• Meeting points may vary depending on the selected package: Hotel pick-up or Ekkamai Bus Station.
• The exact pickup time and driver details will be sent to your email after booking confirmation. Please check your email for the final details.
• If the weather is too cold and the elephants do not want to bathe, this activity will be skipped to ensure the well-being of the animals.
• Additional charges: An extra ฿ 200 per large or medium-sized suitcase for luggage.

Note: Smoking, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.

Tour available in: English

Pickup Included: Hotel pickup available from Bangkok. For those without hotel pickup, you can meet at the Ekkamai Bus Station.

Best for: Elephant lovers and travelers seeking an ethical and memorable elephant experience.

Price: From ฿1,500 (approx. $45), varies by group size and package.

From Pattaya: Living Green Elephant Sanctuary Day Trip

Duration: 3–7.5 hours

Tour Highlights:

• Choice of two sessions: Morning (7 am to 2:30 pm) or Afternoon (11 am to 6:30 pm).
• Ethical interactions with elephants: No riding, no chains, no performances.
• Hand-feed elephants and observe their natural behaviors.
• Trek through the jungle alongside the elephants.
• Bath with the elephants in their natural environment.
• Local meals featuring traditional Thai dishes like Ancient Pad Thai made with local ingredients.

What’s Included:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off (depending on selected package)
• Traditional clothing for activities
• All necessary equipment for trekking and elephant care activities

Note: Personal expenses, tips, gratuities, and any additional food or drinks not specified in the itinerary are not included.

Important Information:

• Meeting points: Hotel pick-up from Pattaya or meet at the Living Green Elephant Sanctuary (no transfer option).
• If the weather is too cold and the elephants do not want to bathe, this activity will be skipped to ensure the well-being of the animals.
• Additional charges: An extra ฿ 100 for hotels in Jomtien and 200 Baht for Nong Nooch Garden area.
• Luggage fee: ฿ 200 per medium or large suitcase.

Tour available in: English

Pickup Included: Hotel pickup available from Pattaya and nearby areas.

Best for: Animal lovers and eco-conscious travelers seeking an ethical elephant encounter.

Price: From ฿2,003 (approx. $62), varies by group size and package.

Booking Tips:

• Advance Reservations: It’s recommended to book at least 24 hours in advance to ensure availability.
• Weather Considerations: While the sanctuary remains open during mild weather conditions, some activities, like elephant bathing, may be adjusted based on the elephants’ comfort and weather conditions.

Opening Hours of the Living Green Elephant Sanctuary

• Open Daily: 7 am to 11 pm 

Best Time to Visit:

• Ideal Visiting Months: November to March (These months offer cooler and drier weather, making outdoor activities more comfortable).

Optimal Times for Tours:

• Morning Program: Starts around 7 am to 7:30 am, concluding by 2 pm to 2:30 pm.
• Afternoon Program: Begins at 11 am, wrapping up by 6:30 pm.

Customized Tour Itinerary for Living Green Elephant Sanctuary

• Session Time: Morning 7 am to 2:30 pm (or) Afternoon 11 am to 6:30 pm
• Duration: 6 to 7 hours

Why It’s Different from Elephant Riding

Unlike traditional elephant riding, which can cause physical harm and stress to the animals, the sanctuary emphasizes natural, stress-free interactions where elephants are treated with the utmost care and respect.

Here’s what makes this experience unique:

• No Riding: Elephant riding often involves discomfort for the elephants, as they are forced to carry heavy loads or wear uncomfortable saddles. At the sanctuary, the elephants are free to roam and engage with visitors on their own terms, without any physical strain.
• Ethical Care: The sanctuary is dedicated to elephant welfare and rehabilitation. Elephants are rescued from exploitative situations and provided with a safe and natural environment to heal.
• Hands-On, Educational Interaction: Instead of riding, you’ll have the chance to feed, bathe, and walk with the elephants, allowing for a more intimate and rewarding experience. You’ll learn about the elephants’ behaviors, personalities, and how they’ve been rehabilitated, while supporting ethical tourism.
• Respectful Observation: Instead of exploiting the elephants for entertainment, the sanctuary allows you to observe and interact respectfully, ensuring that the elephants’ well-being comes first.

Activities at Living Green Elephant Sanctuary

At Living Green Elephant Sanctuary, every moment is an opportunity to connect with elephants in a meaningful and ethical way. Here’s what you can look forward to during your visit:

• Meet & Greet the Elephants:
  Get to know the elephants in their natural habitat, learning about their unique stories and rehabilitation.
• Feed the Elephants:
  Participate in feeding the elephants and bond with these gentle giants by offering them their favorite treats.
• Walk with the Elephants:
  Take a stroll with the elephants through the sanctuary grounds, witnessing their natural behaviors in a serene setting.
• Elephant Bathing:
  Join the elephants during their bath time in the river, where you’ll help clean and refresh them.
• Create Herbal Medicine Balls:
  Learn how to prepare herbal medicine balls, a traditional remedy for aiding the elephants’ digestion.
• Plant Seedlings:
  Help plant seedlings, which will later grow into essential food sources for the elephants.

Best Way to Reach

• Guided Tour (most convenient)
  • Guided tours are the most popular and efficient way to experience the sanctuary, ensuring both comfort and educational value, with a complete itinerary and an expert guide.
• Private Taxi/Car (via Route 7)
  • Cost: Around ฿ 600 to ฿ 750.
  • Time: About 1.5 hours.
  • Convenience: Fastest and most flexible.
• Minivan from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai)
  • Cost: Around ฿ 100 to  ฿ 150.
  • Time: 2 hours.
  • Convenience: Budget-friendly, though less direct than a guided tour.
• Private Transfer (For more flexibility)
  • Cost: Varies based on your preference and provider.
  • Time: Flexible, usually about 1.5 hours.
  • Convenience: Personalized and premium way.

Tip: Leave early in the morning (around 7 am) for the best experience, especially if you want to avoid midday heat and large crowds.

Important Tips to Know Before Visiting the Elephant Sanctuary

Dress Code

• Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting a little muddy or wet, especially for activities like elephant bathing or walking through the sanctuary grounds.
• Opt for closed-toed shoes or sneakers that can handle a little mud or water.
• A wide-brimmed hat provides extra sun protection, especially if you’re doing outdoor activities.

What to Carry

• Apply sunscreen before you leave and bring a travel-sized bottle for reapplication.
• Choose an insect repellent with DEET for the best protection.
• Carry small bills (in Thai Baht) for easy transactions.
• If you have any medical needs, it’s always best to carry your medications, especially if you’re allergic to insect bites or have special requirements.
• Some of the facilities at the sanctuary may be basic, and it’s always helpful to have tissues or wet wipes for quick cleaning.

Ethical Rules at Living Green Elephant Sanctuary

• Respect the elephants’ space and approach them calmly.
• No riding the elephants; enjoy the experience through feeding, bathing, and observing.
• Avoid flash photography, as it can startle the elephants.
• Be gentle and calm around the elephants to avoid stressing them.
• Follow the guide’s instructions for a safe experience.
• Only feed approved food to the elephants.
• Support conservation efforts by learning and donating if possible.
• Stay on designated paths to ensure safety for both you and the elephants.
• Minimize noise and distractions to maintain a peaceful environment.
• Avoid touching the elephants’ faces or trunks to respect their sensitivity.
• Respect the environment by leaving no trace and keeping the sanctuary clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Living Green Elephant Sanctuary:

Key Takeaways

• Living Green Elephant Sanctuary is an ethical sanctuary located about 1.5 to 2 hours from Bangkok in Chonburi Province.
• No elephant riding or performances—only respectful activities like feeding, bathing, and jungle trekking.
• The best time to visit is between November and March during cooler, drier months.
• Choose from half-day and full-day tours, many with hotel pickup, meals, and English-speaking guides.
• Morning (7 am to 2:30 pm) and Afternoon (11 am to 6:30 pm) sessions are available.
• Activities include making herbal medicine balls, planting seedlings, and interacting closely with rescued elephants.
• Prices start from ฿1,500 ($45), depending on package and pickup location.
• Dress in clothes suitable for mud and water; wear closed shoes and bring sun and insect protection.
• Ideal for families, animal lovers, and eco-conscious travelers seeking a meaningful and ethical experience.

Booking online in advance is recommended for a hassle-free experience.