Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal
Engage with gentle giants at Ayutthaya Elephant Palace, offering rides, feeding, and photo ops amidst historical park views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Splash with elephants!
Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal
Best Time
Splash with elephants!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Engage with gentle giants at Ayutthaya Elephant Palace, offering rides, feeding, and photo ops amidst historical park views.
"A delightful activity for both people and elephants, with opportunities for photos and feeding. "
Confirm Ride Prices 💰
Elephant rides can be priced differently at the booth than advertised. Clarify before you commit.
Ethical Elephant Encounters :heart:
Observe elephant treatment; look for kindness and proper care. Avoid places with visible cruelty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Feed the Gentle Giants
Designated feeding areas
Purchase food to offer elephants a delightful snack. A rewarding experience for both you and the elephants.
Elephant Rides
Around Ayutthaya Historical Park
Experience a unique perspective of Ayutthaya's historical sites from atop an elephant.
Photo Opportunities
With elephants and baby elephants
Capture memorable moments with these magnificent creatures, including opportunities with baby elephants.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Elephant Welfare First
Ride Pricing & Duration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Confirm Ride Prices 💰
Elephant rides can be priced differently at the booth than advertised. Clarify before you commit.
Ethical Elephant Encounters :heart:
Observe elephant treatment; look for kindness and proper care. Avoid places with visible cruelty.
Feed the Elephants :banana:
Buying food for elephants is a delightful and rewarding activity for all.
Souvenir Shopping :gift:
Plenty of elephant-themed souvenirs are available for purchase.
Tips
from all over the internet
Confirm Ride Prices 💰
Elephant rides can be priced differently at the booth than advertised. Clarify before you commit.
Ethical Elephant Encounters :heart:
Observe elephant treatment; look for kindness and proper care. Avoid places with visible cruelty.
Feed the Elephants :banana:
Buying food for elephants is a delightful and rewarding activity for all.
Souvenir Shopping :gift:
Plenty of elephant-themed souvenirs are available for purchase.
Songkran Fun :water_wave:
Join the Songkran celebrations for a unique water fight with elephants!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace to be a well-maintained spot for interacting with elephants, particularly enjoying feeding them and taking photos. While the ethical treatment of elephants is noted positively by many, concerns arise regarding the pricing and transparency of elephant rides, which some perceive as a tourist trap. The proximity to other cultural sites adds to the overall appeal.
"We passed by this place on our way from the ruin to our hotel Classico. (Our tour arranged a visit to an elephant farm, but it didn't include riding, which I didn't mind.) The place looks clean and well-maintained—many elephants with passengers are roaming around the nearby street."
Irene Eng
"I can see they care for the elephants and that's important to me. They keep them hydrated and fed and handle them kindly."
Christel
"Elephant rides at 300 to 500 THB. 10 to 15 minutes. You can take photos with the elephant, also even feed them. Lots of elephant souvenirs."
Ceejay Abenoja
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Elephant Palace is located near Ayutthaya Historical Park. You can reach it by taxi, tuk-tuk, or by renting a bicycle from your accommodation. Many tours also include a stop here.
Yes, tuk-tuks and taxis are usually available in the vicinity. You can also arrange for a return trip with your initial driver.
Depending on which part of the park you are coming from, it can be a walkable distance, or a short tuk-tuk ride away.
If you are arriving by private car or motorbike, there are usually parking areas available near the attraction.
While the grounds are generally flat, navigating around elephants and potential crowds might be challenging. It's best to inquire directly about specific accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't typically an entrance fee to visit the grounds, but activities like elephant rides and feeding come with separate charges.
Elephant rides are usually priced around 300-500 THB for a 10-15 minute ride, though prices can vary. Be sure to confirm the exact cost.
Feeding the elephants typically costs around 200 THB for a cart of food.
Sometimes tour operators offer packages that include elephant interactions. It's worth checking with local tour providers.
The Elephant Palace is generally open during daylight hours, but specific times for activities like rides and feeding may vary. It's best to visit during the day.
📸 📸 Photography & Experiences
Yes, photo opportunities with elephants, including baby elephants, are available for an additional fee.
This is a debated topic. While some visitors enjoy the experience, it's crucial to choose reputable places that prioritize elephant welfare and avoid any signs of mistreatment.
Besides rides and feeding, you can observe the elephants, purchase souvenirs, and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
The Elephant Palace sometimes hosts special events, like the Songkran water festival with elephants.
Feeding them is a highly recommended and enjoyable way to interact. Observing their gentle nature is also rewarding.
🎫 🐘 Elephant Welfare
Look for elephants that are not chained, are well-hydrated, and are handled with kindness. Avoid places that force elephants into unnatural behaviors.
Many visitors report that the elephants at Ayutthaya Elephant Palace appear to be well-cared for, hydrated, and handled kindly.
Be wary of elephants with visible injuries, those forced to perform tricks, or those that seem distressed or overly submissive due to harsh training.
While elephants are strong, prolonged or heavy rides can be taxing. The presence of a sheltered carriage suggests an effort to distribute weight, but it's still a consideration.
Research organizations dedicated to elephant welfare in Thailand and look for sanctuaries that focus on rehabilitation and natural behaviors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While elephant rides are available, consider the age and comfort level of your children. The nearby temple and swings can also provide a calmer, enjoyable experience for younger ones who might need a break from the excitement.
🐘 Elephant Enthusiasts
While elephant rides are an option, consider researching ethical elephant sanctuaries in Thailand for a more conservation-focused experience. However, if you choose to ride, be mindful of the pricing and duration, and ensure the elephants appear healthy and content.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Be prepared for potentially crowded conditions, especially during peak times or special events like Songkran, which can add a dynamic element to your photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Elephant Welfare at Ayutthaya Elephant Palace
However, it's important to remember that these are still captive animals. While the palace seems to make efforts to ensure their comfort, such as using sheltered carriages for rides, the ethics of elephant riding itself remain a subject of discussion. Visitors are encouraged to observe the elephants' demeanor and the overall environment to make informed decisions about their participation.
For those who wish to interact ethically, feeding the elephants is a highly recommended activity. It provides a direct, positive engagement that benefits both the visitor and the animal, allowing for a more natural and less intrusive experience.
Navigating Elephant Ride Pricing and Experiences
The duration of the rides is typically around 10 to 15 minutes. It's advisable to confirm the exact price and what it includes before committing to a ride. Some reviews suggest that the pricing structure can be confusing, with different rates quoted for individuals versus groups.
Beyond the potential pricing issues, the experience itself is generally described as enjoyable by those who partake. The elephants are equipped with sheltered carriages, which aim to distribute the rider's weight. While elephants are powerful animals, it's always good to be mindful of the impact of such activities.
Beyond the Elephants: Nearby Attractions
Adjacent to the temple, you might find charming swings that offer moments of quiet joy and relaxation. These spots are perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to soak in the peaceful atmosphere of Ayutthaya. They provide a lovely contrast to the more active elephant encounters.
These nearby attractions offer a well-rounded experience, allowing you to appreciate the historical and cultural richness of Ayutthaya beyond just the elephant interactions. They are easily accessible and add to the overall charm of the area.
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