Not officially confirmed: The data for this festival is less certain; check on the spot or with the organisers.
When and where
When: 13 March
Rule: Fixed date. 2026: Friday 13 March; 2027: Saturday 13 March.
Dates can change. Check the current date shortly before your trip with the local organisers or the tourist office.
About Thai Elephant Day
On 13 March Thailand celebrates the elephant, its national animal, with a day for conservation, history and culture. Elephant centres, including in Lampang, hold festive meals for elephants, parades and talks. The aim is attention for welfare and protection, including working elephants. Travellers can choose a centre focused on care and education rather than riding or shows. The day is not an official day off, but many elephant parks and rescue centres mark it with special activities.
Getting there
Lampang is about 600 km north of Bangkok; fly, or take the train/bus.
Highlights
- Elephant buffet Centres prepare fruit and vegetables in large quantities.
- Lampang The national elephant centre is a hub of research and care.
- Conservation Talks and workshops on protection and welfare.
Tips for Thai Elephant Day
- Choose centres focused on welfare and avoid riding or shows.
- Book ahead as it is a popular day.
- Bring sunscreen and water.
Thai Elephant Day on the map
Pinch to zoom; tap a point for more info. Open circles: approximate location.
Celebrated nationwide; the map shows the Thai Elephant Conservation Center near Lampang.
Frequently asked questions about Thai Elephant Day
When is Thai Elephant Day in 2026?
Thai Elephant Day falls in 2026 on 13 March and is celebrated nationwide; a well-known spot is Thai Elephant Conservation Center, Lampang. Rule: 13 March. This date comes from media or tourism sources and is not officially confirmed; check it shortly before you go.
When is Thai Elephant Day in 2027?
Thai Elephant Day falls in 2027 on 13 March and is celebrated nationwide; a well-known spot is Thai Elephant Conservation Center, Lampang. Rule: 13 March. This date comes from media or tourism sources and is not officially confirmed; check it shortly before you go.
Where is the best place to see Thai Elephant Day?
Watch it best at Thai Elephant Conservation Center, Lampang. Centres prepare fruit and vegetables in large quantities. Lampang is about 600 km north of Bangkok; fly, or take the train/bus. The national elephant centre is a hub of research and care. Highlight: Conservation – Talks and workshops on protection and welfare.
Festivals near Thai Elephant Conservation Center, Lampang
- Lamphun Longan Fair 35 km as the crow flies
- Bo Sang Umbrella Festival 50 km as the crow flies
- Chiang Mai Flower Festival 55 km as the crow flies
- Songkran (Thai New Year) 55 km as the crow flies
- Yi Peng (Chiang Mai lantern festival) 55 km as the crow flies
Also in March
- Koh Samui Buffalo Fighting
- Dok Lamduan Flower Festival (Si Sa Ket)
- Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya Puasa)
- Full Moon Party (Koh Phangan)
- Hae Pha Khun That (Nakhon Si Thammarat)
- Phuket Heroines' Festival