OUR STORY
New Elephant Home is one of the most unique and dynamic elephant sanctuary projects in Chiang Mai, Thailand currently led by Chatchai “New” Srisiriwilai and their team, who represent the new generation of management. With the support of Lek Chailert, founder of Elephant Nature Park, and Save Elephant Foundation, they have been and are working tirelessly to give their 16 elephants a dignified life.
Chatchai “New” Srisiriwilai
New Elephant Home is led by 25-year-old Chatchai “New” Srisiriwilai and his family, who are from the Kayan and Lahu ethnic minority groups. Together, they represent a new generation working to give elephants the dignity and freedom they deserve.
The story began in 2003, when New’s father, Chokchai, used his wife’s savings to buy land and start an elephant camp with five elephants. Over the years, the camp grew into a busy tourist attraction with rides and shows. Despite appeals from conservationist Lek Chailert to change, Chokchai hesitated, fearing he would lose customers.
Before the Covid-19 Pandemic
When the Covid-19 pandemic devastated tourism, the camp struggled to survive. It was during this time that Chokchai finally began moving toward a sanctuary model — but sadly, he passed away before completing the transformation.
After the Covid-19 Pandemic
In 2020, New stepped in to carry forward this vision. With the support of his mother, “Maprang”, who continues to help manage the sanctuary, and guidance from Lek Chailert and Save Elephant Foundation, he transformed the camp into an ethical home for elephants. Today, 16 elephants roam and live as naturally as they can, healing from their past.
The name New Elephant Home carries a double meaning: it honors New himself, and it marks a new beginning — a break from the old ways, and a future built on compassion, respect, and hope for elephants in Chiang Mai.