A Retirement Park for Elephants in Phuket
Founded by Montri Todtane, who closed his former elephant riding camp and opened Phuket’s first ethical elephant sanctuary park in 2016, we provide a safe and loving home for elephants rescued from the logging and tourism industries. Inspired by the renowned Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, we invite you to be part of this positive change. By visiting, you’ll not only learn about ethical elephant care but also directly contribute to their well-being, creating unforgettable memories while supporting a more humane future for these Asian elephants in Thailand.
MONTRI TODTANE
FOUNDER PHUKET ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
Montri grew up in a rural village without electricity, not far from where the sanctuary is located today. He fondly recalls visiting his grandfather’s rubber plantation, earning just 40 cents a day tapping trees. After studying Sales & Marketing in Bangkok, Montri returned to Phuket in 2002 following the 1999 economic collapse, eventually working in a snake show. In 2010, he entered elephant tourism and bought Madee, followed by Kannika, Tubtim, and Dawrerng.
Dawrerng, aged 45 when Montri bought her, was later sold to another camp where she sadly passed away. Reflecting on her fate, Montri vowed to never let such a tragedy happen again. When Tubtim developed a hind leg injury, despite a year of veterinary care, her condition didn’t improve. Montri decided to sell her but insisted she find a home in a sanctuary.
This decision led him to meet Lek Chailert, who ensured Tubtim would never work again. Tubtim’s rescue deeply moved Montri and inspired him to create Phuket Elephant Sanctuary, committed to providing a true final home for elephants.
SANGDUEN LEK CHAILERT
FOUNDER ELEPHANT NATURE PARK & SAVE ELEPHANT FOUNDATION
Born in a small hill tribe village in Northern Thailand, Lek grew up surrounded by animals, often watching her grandfather, a traditional healer, care for both people and injured animals brought by the villagers. These early experiences taught her that all animals deserve to live well, inspiring her lifelong dedication to saving them.
She later founded Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai.
Changing the way domestic and wild Asian elephants are treated was no easy task, given the deep-rooted traditions and lack of awareness around animal welfare. However, Lek’s unwavering commitment paid off, earning her international recognition, including the Ford Foundation’s “Hero of the Planet” award in 2001.
Her passion continues to inspire others in Thailand and beyond, making her a driving force in the global movement for elephant welfare and conservation.
It was Lek’s work that deeply influenced Montri and helped shape the vision for Phuket Elephant Sanctuary.
A Brief History Of PES
2015
Montri Meets Lek Chailert, Sparking the Vision for Ethical Elephant Tourism in Phuket. This pivotal meeting marked the beginning of Montri’s journey to create Phuket’s first ethical elephant sanctuary, guided by Lek’s expertise in compassionate care.
2016
Phuket Elephant Sanctuary Opens, Welcoming Kannika and Madee
Our sanctuary’s doors opened, and the first two elephants, Kannika and Madee, went on a final ride toward freedom and a peaceful retirement.
2020
Thailand’s Longest Canopy Walkway is Completed
This unique walkway allows visitors to observe elephants from above, offering a completely ethical, non-intrusive experience while they roam freely below.
2025
Phuket’s First Elephant Hospital Opens Its Doors
A game-changer for elephant welfare, our on-site hospital now provides specialized care for our resident elephants and others in need throughout Phuket.
