17 Reasons to Skip Bangkok and Visit This Northern Thailand City Instead

Elephant abuse is a devastating reality both in Thailand and all over the world — and it's often done in the name of tourism. Elephants are broken, trained brutally, physically harmed, and overworked just so that people can watch them do tricks or ride them.

The Elephant Nature Park north of Chiang Mai city is on a mission to rescue elephants (and cats and dogs!) in order to rehabilitate and protect them. There's no riding the animals here; instead visitors are able to help feed and bathe the elephants, walk with them throughout the sanctuary, and observe their natural daily routines.