Elephant Observation & Golden Sunrise at Suthep Temple
About This Activity
Experience a beautiful sunrise from the renowned Doi Suthep temple, followed by a serene alms-giving ceremony steeped in 2,000 years of Buddhist history.
After a delectable Thai breakfast, uncover the hidden gem of Wat Doi Supphanyu decorated with captivating Thai mythological paintings. Ascend the Chedi for breathtaking views of green plantations.
At Joy Elephant Sanctuary, change into traditional Karen clothing and engage in heartwarming activities, including feeding the gentle giants. Savor herbal tea while observing the elephants in their habitat, then refresh at a serene waterfall. Craft a Thai cultural souvenir before enjoying a flavorful local meal, bidding farewell to the elephants before returning to the city.
Experience a beautiful sunrise from the renowned Doi Suthep temple, atop one of Chiang Mai’s highest peaks. Learn about the 2,000-year history of Buddhism and get involved in a serene alms-giving ceremony early in the morning.
Enjoy a delicious thai breakfast before visiting a hidden non-touristic temple Wat Doi Supphanyu. Here you can admire the beautiful paintings of Thai mythology and ascend the Chedi for stunning views of the surrounding plantations.
Then move on to Joy Elephant Sanctuary where you’ll receive a warm welcome and have the opportunity to change into traditional Karen clothing. Our knowledgeable tour guides will provide an interesting briefing about the sanctuary and its beloved elephants.
Involve yourself in the sanctuary’s activities as you participate in preparing food and snacks for the elephants, engaging in feeding the elephants while maintaining a safe distance. Learn about their history and behavior and develop a connection with these magnificent creatures.
Sip harvested herbal tea from the village, all while observing the elephants in their natural habitat. Witness their daily routines, from foraging for food in the jungle to playful mud baths and tender bonding moments within the herd.
Take a refreshing break at the waterfall, which is situated in serene surroundings. Then Craft your own Thai cultural handmade souvenir to take back home.
Conclude your journey with a delicious local meal, say goodbye to the elephants in Joy Elephant Sanctuary and depart back to the city.
Itinerary
Duration 10-11 hours
04.30 – 05.00
- Pick up from your hotel or accommodation in Chiang Mai
05.30
- Drive to Doi Suthep temple & witness the breathtaking sunrise from one of Chiang Mai’s highest points
- Learn about the profound 2,000-year history of Buddhism and the importance of Wat Phra That Doi Suthep.
- Participate in an alms-giving ceremony in the early morning and explore the well-known temple without daytime crowds.
07.30
- Enjoy a delicious Thai Breakfast
08.00
- Visit Wat Doi Supphanyu which is a hidden non-touristic, culturally rich temple
- Leave Doi Sapphanyu and go to Joy Elephant Sanctuary
10.00
- Upon arrival at the sanctuary, you will be greeted and welcomed
- Change into traditional Karen clothing and receive a briefing about the sanctuary and the Elephants by our knowledgeable tour guides
- Participate in preparing food and snacks for the elephants, a hands-on experience
- Enjoy feeding the elephants while maintaining a safe distance, as you learn about their history and understand their behavior
12.30
- Enjoy a delicious local meal
13.00
- Watch the elephants’ daily routine, which might involve observing them as they look for food in the jungle, bathe with the mahouts, or relax in the mud as they bond within the herd (subject to the natural behavior and preferences of the elephants on the day of the visit)
- Drink freshly harvested herbal tea from the village while observing the elephants in their natural habitat
- Take a refreshing break at the Water Fall ( No Elephant Bathing )
- Craft your own Thai cultural handmade souvenir to take back home
14.00
- Leave Joy Elephant Sanctuary and ride approximately 1½ hours back to Chiang Mai
15.30
- Arrive at your accommodation after enjoying your Elephant Observation & Golden Sunrise at Suthep Temple
***The timings are only approximate with the exception of designated pick-up times
Pick-Up Time
04.30 – 05.00
Include
TRANSFER
Round-Trip Transfer to/from your Accommodation in Chiang Mai
TOUR GUIDE
English – Thai
MEAL
Complimentary Local Meal
DRINKING WATER
Free refill drinking water
ELEPHANT’S FOOD & SNACK
INSURANCE
Accident insurance
TOWEL
TICKET
For Doi Suthep Temple
ALMS OFFERING SET
Free Service
PHOTOGRAPHY
An additional photography service at no extra charge.
Need to know
WHAT TO BRING?
- Extra Clothes
- Swimming Suit
- Sandals
- Insect Spray
- Sunblock lotion
- Customer own allergy medication
NOTE
- A free transfer service to/from all places of accommodation within a 5 k.m. radius of Chiang Mai’s Old City.
- Transport from locations outside this area will incur a surcharge.
- Customers will travel in a 12-seater, air-conditioned van, switching to a roofed 4×4 truck for the last 10 minutes to reach the sanctuary.
- Respectful attire is necessary for temple visits in Thailand. Shoulders should be covered, and clothing should extend to at least the calf.
Have A Question ?
Need more details? Our expert team is just a message away.
PRICE
ADULT
2,700 THB
CHILD (4-9)
INFANT (0-3)
FREE
Honoring Your Contribution
With every payment, you’re making a positive impact on the lives of our elephants and local community. We’re deeply grateful for your contribution and for being a vital part of their journey!
