Surin Project

Surin, Thailand

Experience elephant care alongside the Suay people, Thailand's traditional elephant mahouts, in their ancestral village setting.

About this place

Unlike typical sanctuaries, this community-based project lets you live with mahout families and learn traditional elephant husbandry passed down through generations. The highlight is the annual Elephant Round-up festival preparation (October-November) when you can witness ancient training techniques. Stay in traditional Suay homestays, bring mosquito repellent for the rural setting, and learn basic Thai phrases as English is limited but the cultural immersion is unmatched.