Elephant Shrine Hat Yai Park
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Elephant Shrine Hat Yai Park

3.9
·4k reviews·Tambon Nam Noi, Thailand

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Cooler temperatures

CrowdMedium
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Elephant Shrine Hat Yai Park

Elephant Shrine Hat Yai Park

Best Time

Morning

Cooler temperatures

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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.

3.9
(4k reviews)

"It's fair to go and visit the elephants but only if you are willing to spend your money."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

3.9 · 4,209 reviews

Type

Tourist Attraction

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Elephant Encounters

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.

Reddit
Elephant Rides

Elephant Rides

Chang Puak Elephant Camp

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

Reddit
Animal Shows

Animal Shows

Chang Puak Elephant Camp

Enjoy entertaining shows featuring elephants and crocodiles. A fun diversion for all ages.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Cash is King Here

Most activities and purchases at Elephant Shrine Hat Yai Park are cash-only. Bring plenty of Thai Baht, as exchange rates for foreign currency might not be favorable. ATMs might be scarce nearby, so plan ahead to avoid missing out on rides or feeding opportunities. Reddit

Consider Animal Welfare

While a popular spot for elephant encounters, some visitors express concerns about animal welfare due to chaining and performances. If this is a concern, you might opt for feeding the elephants instead of rides or shows. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Cooler temperatures
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoon
Why
Less crowded
Crowd
Low

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. Reddit

Consider Elephant Welfare

:raised_hands: If animal welfare is a concern, opt for feeding elephants instead of rides. Reddit

Book Activities in Advance

📅 Popular rides and shows can fill up, especially during peak times. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

:athletic_shoe: You'll be doing some walking around the park. Reddit

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. Reddit

Consider Elephant Welfare

:raised_hands: If animal welfare is a concern, opt for feeding elephants instead of rides. Reddit

Book Activities in Advance

📅 Popular rides and shows can fill up, especially during peak times. Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

:athletic_shoe: You'll be doing some walking around the park. Reddit

Stay Hydrated

:water_buffalo: It can get hot and humid, so carry water. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.9
(4k reviews)

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

Feeding the elephants
Animal shows
Unique encounters

What People Dislike

Animal welfare concerns
Safety during rides
Commercialized atmosphere

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. Reddit

It's a moderate distance, approximately 30 minutes by car from the main Hat Yai area. Consider this travel time when planning your visit. Reddit

Public transport options are limited. It's generally recommended to use a taxi or arrange private transport for easier access. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, it's located next to the Songkhla Flower Farm, making it convenient to combine visits. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to secure your preferred time slot. Reddit

Yes, there are often different packages (e.g., Package A and B) that include various activities. These are typically cash-only. Reddit

The camp usually closes around 5 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

The areas where you can feed the elephants and the performance arena offer great opportunities for memorable photos. Reddit

This depends on your budget and priorities. While you can take your own photos, professional packages might offer higher quality shots. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🐘 Onsite Experience

Activities include elephant rides, elephant shows, crocodile shows, feeding the elephants, and photo opportunities with animals. ATV rides are also sometimes offered. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, you can feed the elephants, often with bananas, which is a friendly interaction. Reddit

The shows typically involve elephants performing tricks and routines. Some visitors find these performances uncomfortable if they have concerns about animal welfare. Reddit

There are usually baby elephants on display, and you can observe the general camp environment. However, the main attractions involve paid activities. Reddit

🎫 💰 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. Reddit

An elephant ride typically costs around 700 Baht per person for about 20-30 minutes. Reddit

They may accept MYR notes, but the exchange rate might not be favorable. It's best to use Thai Baht. Reddit

ATMs might not be readily available near the park, so it's crucial to bring sufficient cash with you. Reddit

Be aware of potential costs for photos, souvenirs, and additional activities beyond the main attractions. Reddit

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