Elephantstay

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About Elephantstay

Elephantstay is a unique program nestled in the heart of the Royal Elephant Kraal village in Ayutthaya. This not-for-profit program under the Phra Kochabaan Foundation offers an unparalleled opportunity to live, work, and play with elephants. It's an experience that has been enjoyed by people of all ages, from grandparents to young children. The dedication of the staff to the well-being of the elephants and the visitors is commendable. The program is designed to be immersive, allowing visitors to form a bond with the elephants they care for.

However, not all experiences at Elephantstay have been positive. Some visitors have expressed concern about the welfare of the elephants, noting that they are often kept in cages and made to perform tricks. The sight of these majestic creatures appearing sad and confined has left some visitors feeling disappointed and upset.

Others have noted that while the program is presented as a working village, the elephants seem to lack freedom of movement. The sight of elephants kept on short chains, some swaying in a manner that suggests boredom or distress, has been disheartening for some. There have also been instances of mahouts being heavy-handed, which has raised concerns about the treatment of the elephants.

The daily routine at Elephantstay has been described as repetitive, with the same tasks and routes followed each day. The village is situated in a semi-urban flat land area, lacking the lush greenery or forest-like setting that some might expect. The program is hands-on, involving tasks such as cleaning up after the elephants and feeding them, but some have found the routine tiring and monotonous over time.

Customer service has also been a point of contention for some visitors. Requests for basic services, such as cleaning the accommodation, have sometimes been ignored. The educational aspect of the program has also been criticized, with visitors being handed a printed booklet instead of receiving interactive educational talks or stories about the elephants.

The condition of the village has been described as untidy, with rubbish and unused equipment scattered around. Some visitors have also expressed concern about the welfare of stray dogs roaming the area. The elephants are often kept on short chains, and some mahouts have been seen feeding them watermelons still in their plastic wrappings.

Despite these concerns, there are those who have had a positive experience at Elephantstay. They describe it as a place where elephants are loved and cared for, with staff who are dedicated to their well-being. They argue that the program provides a safe haven for elephants that might otherwise be starved or killed. They point out that the elephants are fed, watered, walked, and swum multiple times a day, and that the elephants seem happy and content.

In conclusion, Elephantstay offers a unique opportunity to interact with elephants in a hands-on manner. However, the experience may not be for everyone, with concerns raised about the welfare of the elephants, the repetitive nature of the program, and the level of customer service. It's a place that has brought joy to some and disappointment to others, and potential visitors should consider all aspects before deciding to visit.