FAQ
No. Trunk Heaven is an observation-based sanctuary — no riding, no performances, no bathing, no unnecessary touching, and no hand-feeding. Human contact is limited to situations necessary for the elephants' care, management, or veterinary treatment. In our enrichment activity, guests help place food for the elephants to find, then watch from a safe observation area — preparation happens separately from the elephants, and there is no direct hand-feeding.
We don't describe them that way, because it wouldn't be accurate — they still have their respective owners. Trunk Heaven cares for Mo Ngae Po, Mali, and Chicha under a three-year lease agreement with the family who has known them for generations. If their owners are ever willing to sell, we hope to purchase them for a permanent home; if not, we hope to keep renewing that agreement for as long as we're able to. Read the full story on Our Story.
Yes, overnight. Our elephants are chained at their sleeping place from 9:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. to keep them out of neighbouring farms, roads and homes, and we are planning a secure overnight enclosure so routine chaining can end. Bells help mahouts locate elephants by sound in dense vegetation. Read the full, honest explanation on Elephant Care.
We can't guarantee it, and we won't schedule or control their behaviour just to create a predictable experience. Your visit follows what Mo Ngae Po, Mali, Chicha, and Naw Keer choose to do that day — walking, foraging, resting, or simply doing nothing. That unpredictability is part of respecting their autonomy.
Three: the Full-Day Program (morning observation, afternoon enrichment, and a workshop or bamboo rafting), the Half-Day Morning Program (guided observation and lunch), and the Half-Day Afternoon Program (enrichment and observation, then a workshop or bamboo rafting). Hotel pick-up from our Chiang Mai City service area is part of each. See the full day plans on Programs.
An elephant-friendly cake made from fruits, rice and vegetables approved by our elephant care team, available in sizes S, M, L and XL. Make it with our team at the sanctuary, or let us prepare it and send you a video of the elephants enjoying it. Advance booking is required, and every cake is served by our team — no hand-feeding. Enquire about a cake.
No. Rafting depends on weather, river conditions and safety assessments, and the river crossing may be adjusted or cancelled for safety. A hands-on workshop is the alternative afternoon activity.
Prices, group sizes and availability are confirmed when you enquire. Send us your preferred program and date through the enquiry form and we'll reply by email. Nothing is booked or charged until we've confirmed with you.
The program includes uphill walking, uneven trails and a shallow river crossing, so it isn't suitable for every age or fitness level. Please tell us in advance about health conditions, mobility needs, allergies and the ages of any children, and contact us before booking if you're unsure. See the Visitor Guide for the details.
No. There is no electricity or mobile network coverage at the sanctuary, so charge your devices beforehand and let others know you'll be out of contact during your visit.
Trunk Heaven believes elephant welfare can't be separated from the wellbeing of the people who care for them. Chicha's longtime caretaker, Mr. Chura, is employed here as our Head Elephant Caretaker, and we plan to extend employment and education support to other caretaker families over time.