Thailand, renowned for its stunning beaches and rich culture, has long been a popular destination for tourists seeking unique experiences. One such experience has been interacting with elephants, from riding them to sharing meals.However, in recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need for more ethical and sustainable tourism practices, particularly when it comes to animals.
To address these concerns, Thailand has been working to shift the focus of elephant tourism away from activities that can be harmful to the animals. Instead, the emphasis is now on creating more natural and enriching environments for elephants, allowing tourists to observe and learn about these majestic creatures in a respectful manner.
Opening on September 5th, the new elephant sanctuary in Surin, located in northeastern Thailand, represents a major milestone in these efforts. Surin has a long-standing tradition of elephant care, and the local population, the Kui people, are renowned for their elephant training skills. However, in recent decades, deforestation and habitat loss have threatened the survival of these magnificent animals.
The sanctuary is part of a larger government project called "World of Elephants," which aims to make Surin a global center for elephant conservation. The project includes not only the sanctuary but also a village for the Kui people, an elephant hospital, a temple, and a cemetery for both humans and elephants.
Visitors to the sanctuary will have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of elephants in Thailand, observe the animals in their natural habitat, and even participate in conservation efforts.
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