Chiang Mai, Thailand - The Chiang Dao Elephant Training Center

The Chiang Dao Elephant Training Center is located at Ta Yaak Village, Chiang Dao District, about 56kms (35 miles) north of Chiang Mai City, on the road to Fang and Tha Ton. It is on the banks of the Mae Ping River (where the elphants bath before and after their lessons), and is surrounded by rocky hills. http://www.chiangdao.com/chiangdao/elephanttrainingcenter.htm

The Chiang Dao Elephant Training Center

Okay, this was "fun." Something they don't bother to mention. To get to the Elephant Training Camp, one must traverse this rather benign suspended foot bridge. It swings and oscillates, especially when a joker or two decide to make it dance while you're on it.

Gerry and Sherri Paul.

Cub Scouts at the Elephant Training Ground. All exceptionally well-behaved, polite and friendly.

Renee Mirsky feeding the elephants small bananas.

Arnie Kaston feeding the elephants.

Intermission. Let's all go to the lobby, let's all go to the lobby. Let's all go to the lobby... . Anyone remember that ditty?

Linda Kasoff feeding an elephant.

It's bath time.

Demonstration of elephants piling timber.