
Elephant Shrine Hat Yai Park
Experience elephant encounters, rides, and shows at Chang Puak Elephant Camp in Hat Yai. A popular, albeit commercialized, stop for families.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures

Elephant Shrine Hat Yai Park
Best Time
Cooler temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience elephant encounters, rides, and shows at Chang Puak Elephant Camp in Hat Yai. A popular, albeit commercialized, stop for families.
"It's fair to go and visit the elephants but only if you are willing to spend your money."

Bring Plenty of Cash
:moneybag: Most activities are cash-only. Exchange rates for foreign currency may not be favorable.
Consider Elephant Welfare
:raised_hands: If animal welfare is a concern, opt for feeding elephants instead of rides.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
3.9 · 4,209 reviews
Type
Tourist Attraction
Website
changpuakcamp.comHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant Encounters
Chang Puak Elephant Camp
Get up close with elephants, feed them bananas, and witness their gentle nature. A memorable experience for many visitors.

Elephant Rides
Chang Puak Elephant Camp
Experience a short, scenic ride on an elephant's back through the park. A popular activity for families.

Animal Shows
Chang Puak Elephant Camp
Enjoy entertaining shows featuring elephants and crocodiles. A fun diversion for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King Here
Consider Animal Welfare
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Plenty of Cash
:moneybag: Most activities are cash-only. Exchange rates for foreign currency may not be favorable.
Consider Elephant Welfare
:raised_hands: If animal welfare is a concern, opt for feeding elephants instead of rides.
Book Activities in Advance
📅 Popular rides and shows can fill up, especially during peak times.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be doing some walking around the park.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Plenty of Cash
:moneybag: Most activities are cash-only. Exchange rates for foreign currency may not be favorable.
Consider Elephant Welfare
:raised_hands: If animal welfare is a concern, opt for feeding elephants instead of rides.
Book Activities in Advance
📅 Popular rides and shows can fill up, especially during peak times.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
:athletic_shoe: You'll be doing some walking around the park.
Stay Hydrated
:water_buffalo: It can get hot and humid, so carry water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Elephant Shrine Hat Yai Park offers a commercialized animal encounter experience, with elephant rides and shows being popular draws. While many enjoy feeding the elephants and the novelty of the park, some visitors express concerns about animal welfare and safety during rides. It's a place that requires cash and careful consideration of its commercial nature.
"Came in Nov 2025. You can clearly see the animal abuse. Elephants are in distress (they sway side to side) and are chained. I came here to educate my children about elephants but the elephant ride was the absolute worst. I REPEAT- DO NOT RIDE AS THERE ARE NO SAFETY PROCEDURES especially for young children or elderly. The ride takes you to a deep reservoir and the steel guard bar is the only that protects the rider. I have seen it coming off and tourists handing by the bar or otherwise they would fall into the water. Also the handlers will attempt to sell bracelets made from the elephants ivory!"
Zara Zailan
"It’s free entrance camp and only need to pay if u wish to do activities like elephant ride which will cost around 700 baht. Otherwise nothing much to see only two baby elephants on display. Can feed the elephant banana quite friendly one. The camp closed a bit early by 5 pm. Otherwise it is a bit too far from city centre required 30 mins of driving. Just next to Songkhla Flower Farm"
Zahara Zulkifley
"One of the must visit place in Hatyai turns out to be an overrated place. It’s fair to go and visit the elephants but only if you are willing to spend your money. Else, it’s nothing much to see. After all, it’s your decision on how much to spend cuz they will never scam you as some said."
Faizul Irfan Ijoy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Elephant Shrine Hat Yai Park, also known as Chang Puak Elephant Camp, is located about 30 minutes' drive from Hat Yai city center. Taxis or ride-sharing services are the most convenient options. Renting a car or scooter is also possible if you're comfortable navigating local roads.
It's a moderate distance, approximately 30 minutes by car from the main Hat Yai area. Consider this travel time when planning your visit.
Public transport options are limited. It's generally recommended to use a taxi or arrange private transport for easier access.
Taxis are usually available, but it's advisable to confirm availability or have your driver's contact information for the return journey, especially if visiting during off-peak hours.
Yes, it's located next to the Songkhla Flower Farm, making it convenient to combine visits.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance to the camp itself is often free. However, you'll need to pay for specific activities like elephant rides, shows, or feeding.
Elephant rides typically cost around 700 Baht per person for a 20-30 minute duration. Prices can vary, so it's best to check on arrival.
While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to secure your preferred time slot.
Yes, there are often different packages (e.g., Package A and B) that include various activities. These are typically cash-only.
The camp usually closes around 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photo opportunities with the elephants are available, often for an additional fee. Be aware that some handlers may try to sell bracelets made from elephant ivory.
Generally, photography is allowed during shows, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash if it might disturb the animals.
The areas where you can feed the elephants and the performance arena offer great opportunities for memorable photos.
This depends on your budget and priorities. While you can take your own photos, professional packages might offer higher quality shots.
Drone usage is typically not permitted in such parks to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals and visitors. Always check park regulations.
🎫 🐘 Onsite Experience
Activities include elephant rides, elephant shows, crocodile shows, feeding the elephants, and photo opportunities with animals. ATV rides are also sometimes offered.
Some visitors have raised concerns about safety procedures during elephant rides, particularly regarding the guard bars and proximity to water. It's advisable to be cautious, especially with children or elderly individuals.
Yes, you can feed the elephants, often with bananas, which is a friendly interaction.
The shows typically involve elephants performing tricks and routines. Some visitors find these performances uncomfortable if they have concerns about animal welfare.
There are usually baby elephants on display, and you can observe the general camp environment. However, the main attractions involve paid activities.
🎫 💰 Budgeting & Costs
The park can be considered commercialized, with costs adding up if you wish to participate in multiple activities like rides and shows. Entrance might be free, but activities are priced.
An elephant ride typically costs around 700 Baht per person for about 20-30 minutes.
They may accept MYR notes, but the exchange rate might not be favorable. It's best to use Thai Baht.
ATMs might not be readily available near the park, so it's crucial to bring sufficient cash with you.
Be aware of potential costs for photos, souvenirs, and additional activities beyond the main attractions.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit