JOY-006-Elephant Observation & Authentic Thai Cooking Class (Full Day)

Elephant Observation & Golden Sunrise at Suthep Temple
(Full Day)

Chiang Mai

Tour Type: Eco Tour / Local Tour

Duration: Approx. 10 – 11 hours

Transfer: Round-trip from Chiang Mai (approx. 1.30 hrs each way)

What to Expect

Join a delightful day that blends Thai culture, cuisine, and care for elephants. Begin your journey at a local fresh market to hand-pick ingredients before joining an interactive cooking class led by an experienced Thai chef. Prepare seven authentic dishes—from spring rolls to curry and mango sticky rice—and enjoy your creations with refreshing Thai tea.

In the afternoon, continue to Joy Elephant Sanctuary to experience ethical elephant observation. Dress in traditional Karen clothing, learn about elephant behavior, prepare their food, feed them respectfully, and observe them roaming freely in their natural environment. Relax with herbal tea, enjoy a refreshing waterfall visit, and craft a Thai handmade souvenir before returning to Chiang Mai.

Tour Highlights

Get up close and personal with rescued elephants in a safe, natural space
Feed and observe elephants as they roam freely in the forest
Learn about the history, biology, and behavior of Asian elephants
Take beautiful photos and create memories that will last a lifetime
Authentic Thai Cooking Class

🕘 Itinerary

08:00 – 08:30 | Hotel Pick-Up
Pick up from your accommodation in Chiang Mai and head to the local market.

09:00 | Local Market Visit
Explore a traditional Thai market, learn about local ingredients, and select the freshest produce for your cooking session.

09:30 | Authentic Thai Cooking Class
Meet your friendly instructor (over 10 years of experience) who will guide you through preparing 7 authentic Thai dishes:

Appetizer: Spring Rolls with Butterfly Pea Lime Tea
Main Courses: Choose your favorites from curry pastes & curries, Thai soups, spicy salads, and stir-fries
Dessert: Mango Sticky Rice served with Thai Tea

Enjoy the meal you’ve created in a cozy garden kitchen setting.

12:30 | Depart for Joy Elephant Sanctuary
Drive approximately 1½ hours through rural Chiang Mai.

14:00 | Arrival at Sanctuary
Warm welcome from the Karen Hill Tribe hosts.
Change into traditional Karen clothing and receive an introduction about the elephants.
Prepare and feed food & snacks to the elephants while learning about their behavior.
Sip herbal tea as you observe their calm, natural routines.

16:00 | Cultural Activities & Waterfall Break
Take a refreshing stop at the waterfall (no elephant bathing).
Create your own handmade Thai souvenir to bring home.

17:00 | Local Meal & Farewell
Enjoy a simple Thai meal at the sanctuary before returning to the city.

17:30 | Return to Chiang Mai
Relax on the 1½-hour drive back.

19:00 | Arrival at Hotel
End of your Elephant Observation & Authentic Thai Cooking Class experience.

(Itinerary and timings are approximate and may vary depending on weather, road conditions, or elephant activity.)