You can’t helped but be charmed by those giant beasts roaming the plains and jungles of Thailand. Elephants may be large and imposing, but they have a gentle heart and many people are captivated by them. What if we say you can actually live amongst them? And not just that, learn how to train these gentle beasts, just like the mahouts do. In fact, you will be an elephant trainer and learn about the complex relationship and bond between man and Thailand’s most revered animal.

Your elephant enlightenment journey starts and ends at the National Elephant Institute (NEI) in Lampang, an organization that promotes elephant conservation through sustainable tourism practices. Notice these giants taking a bath and following instructions at the command of their mahout. You’ll be doing pretty much the same thing. But before you do, win their affection. How? By feeding them their favorite treats; bananas and sugarcane.

Afterwards, the elephant trainer will give you a basic set of commands and actions, of which you will finally be able to control one of earth’s largest animals. Learn to mount an elephant like a professional mahout and enjoy the thrill of riding on this magnificent beast. Join your elephant during its favorite shower time and receive immense fun from scrubbing its thick hide.

But there’s more than just the elephants. Just as important is the mahout, and to be one, you might as well live like one and with one. Spend the night and partake in various communal activities. If there ever are questions about elephants, these guys are your sources of information. They have been training these animals since they were very young, and the bonds they share last a lifetime. So, they are more than happy to tell delightful tales of these gentle giants and their distinct personalities.

You will demonstrate what you learned the day after. Receive your certificate of achievement and say goodbye to your mahout and elephant friends. It’s always tough to say goodbye, but you know they will always be in your heart and that they will always remember you (after all, elephants have excellent memories).

Fun, engaging and memorable, this Lampang Mahout Training tour package is suitable for anyone with a love for animals and a great family experience. After a night here, continue on with your Thailand exploration. The northern mountains are a beauty. Not too far is the frontier area of Isaan. Down south are the world class oceans, islands and beaches

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