We had an exciting stay here. Bungalows were super cute. The restaurant over looking the river had good vibes. Many activities with the elephants available. We did the elephant wake up call which we loved and the bamboo rafting, it really makes you impressed by how hardworking all the bamboo rafter drivers are (it’s not easy to do their job!!). Overall we are satisfied, maybe next time we could try the feed and walk with elephants :)

I know it’s the elephant’s home and we’re just guests but maybe the staff could be more attentive to clean elephant’s poop, especially on the pathway leading to the bungalows :’) We arrived and the next day was still there :// I hadn’t the most positive feelings about how they treat the elephants to be honest. They had a stick to guide them and shouted at them to give them directions (but please not that since i don’t understand thai it may come off as rude but maybe it’s not, please not this!!!!).

Great resort with kind and helpful staff, and comfortable accommodations. Good restaurant.

I did a lot of research into Thai elephant experiences before booking here, because it’s important me that these animals are living as freely as possible within the many complexities and history of thai elephants and people living/working together. So when I booked here, I read their information and reviews and thought that I had chosen a sanctuary. It was incredible to be on the property with them and we loved interacting with the elephants. But, we realized that the animals were kept in chains all night and confined slot of the time when they weren’t interacting with tourists. Again, it’s a complex situation to house and feed elephants in a space that isn’t big enough for them to risk while keeping people safe. However, it was heartbreaking to see them chained.

Exceptional Review for Tawan Riverside Elephant Resort Our stay at the Tawan Riverside Elephant Resort from December 24 to December 25 was nothing short of magical! From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the serene riverside setting and the warm hospitality of the staff. The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the experience with the elephants. On Christmas Eve, we had the incredible opportunity to bathe and feed these gentle giants. The interaction was both humbling and exhilarating, and it was clear how well these elephants are cared for. Waking up on Christmas morning to feed them was an unforgettable moment—there’s something truly special about starting the day surrounded by such majestic creatures. The food at the resort was equally amazing. Every meal was a delight, featuring fresh, flavorful dishes that perfectly complemented the natural beauty of the setting. The care and attention to detail in every aspect of our stay made it a truly exceptional experience. If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable getaway, the Tawan Riverside Elephant Resort is the place to go. We’ll cherish these memories forever and can’t wait to return!

Amazing experience meeting elephants up close and getting to feed and interact with them. Beautiful location with a nice restaurant. I stayed in the bungalow with fan and it was very nice!

Most of the elephants were very well looked after, unfortunately they were still mostly left in chains, for safety reasons. There were two, supposedly, aggressive male elephants isolated the back of camp, they were chained to a tree with no where to go. They were very skinny and looked like they were in distress, swaying and tugging at their chains. I was only there one day, but they hadn't moved the whole time, didn't look they were fed or given any water during my stay. It was incredibly hard to see. As I said the rest of the elephants were well looked after, but two of then looked very neglected. I hope they can be given more attention in future

lovely resort outside Chiang Mai city. the place is quite simple but includes everything you"ll need. the rooms are clean and air-conditioned. the bed is comfortable. the restaurant is great and not pricy. amazing experience especially with children - elephants wondering free in the public areas and you can pet and feed them. don't miss the full day elephant experience and the elephant wake up. it is not cheap but it's wonderful and if you book you get the transportation from and to Chiang Mai city free.

noting

Lovely Elephant sanctuary just out of Chiang Mai. We did the elephant care, bamboo ride and then spent the night at the resort. Dinner at the little cafe was beautiful and whilst there wasn’t much choice for breakfast it was just enough. The room itself, with 2 double beds, was nice and clean and also had a beautiful view of the river. Sitting around in the peace and quiet of the hills and seeing elephants walking by your room was magical. Also, sitting having a few drinks and being able to watch the elephants was awesome. Thank you for a wonderful stay.

If you love elephants this is the place to stay. You can walk with the elephants, feed them breakfast, bathe with them in the river, or just watch them interact. Stay in room 10. It is small and basic, but its the last one in the row and just outside the window there is a water pipe and hose that the mahouts use to cool the elephants regularly. You get a private viewing from your room. I had a constant smile on my face. It is truly a magical place

Leaving

We liked the layout of the resort, with cabins spaced quite far apart. Especially enjoyed sitting out in the wrap around porch in the early evening and early morning. Where our cabin was situated, we can see the elephants enjoying their down time at dusk and early morning. Magical. And during the day, the elephant activities tend to stop right outside our cabin and therefore we can stand outside our cabin and watch these beautiful animals interact with the guests. At different times during the day/evening, one can watch the elephants go bathing in the river … that was a special treat for us as well. Breakfast was good. Restaurant just beside the river, so a very nice view while enjoying a leisurely breakfast.

Since the resort is in a relatively remote area which was to be expected, there was not much choice of activities outside those of elephant related activities. Not much choice for dinner as well, other than the resort’s restaurant. There were a few stalls along the road close by, but they were mostly closed. Maybe they open at night, but we did not venture out as soon as it got dark.

The staff was super friendly as rest of the Thai population. We had an amazing time with the elephants. The dinner was super delicious. We loved how they took care of the elephants too. They had a good place to walk around, were well fed and loved by their care takers.

Not much to complain. Room was a little small and maybe few more protein options for breakfast would be nice 😊

The whole place is superb with close interaction with the elephants, from feeding them to walking and bathing them. The staff tremendous. They offer Plenty of other options to do from day trips in the mountains to bamboo rafting down the river. The room was great with your own balcony and viewing space where, at a cost, the elephants will come and have breakfast with you, needed strong seats at the table for them though. The restaurant was superb for lunch and evening meals, right on the riverside and the food was beautiful. Breakfast was a little basic though. Walk up onto the road and a few local bars and eating places.

Breakfast could maybe be a little more choice but overall nothing not to like.