F a c t s & B e l i e.f s

U n d e r s t a n d i n g b e f o r e j u d g e m e n t

S e p a r a t i n g p e r c e p t i o n f r o m r e a l i t y

For centuries, elephants have been part of life in Thailand — not only in forests, but also in history, culture, warfare, transportation, and the daily lives of people.

Much like horses in many Western societies, elephants in Southeast Asia became deeply connected to human civilization through geography, climate, environment, and generations of accumulated knowledge.

Different regions of the world developed different relationships with animals. In colder climates, horses became companions in travel, farming, and war.

In tropical forests like Thailand, elephants became part of the rhythm of life in an entirely different way.

To understand elephants in Thailand today, one must first understand the history, beliefs, traditions, and people who have lived beside them for centuries.