Elephant Pu Pu Paper Garden

What are the most recommended things to do in Elephant Pu Pu Paper Garden?

  • Explore the lush gardens filled with unique elephant-shaped paper sculptures and art installations.
  • Participate in a hands-on paper-making workshop, where you can craft your own paper using traditional methods.
  • Take a guided tour of the garden to learn about the artistic history and cultural significance of the paper art.
  • Shop for elephant-themed souvenirs, including handmade paper products, local crafts, and paper artwork.
  • Relax and enjoy the serene environment surrounded by nature and art at the garden's various scenic spots.

Introducing Elephant Pu Pu Paper Park

In Chiang Mai's Mae Rin district, there's a place that processes elephant poop into paper. Elephant poop is no longer just fertilizer. Those craft paper you see on the market might actually be made from elephant poop. At this factory, you can not only buy elephant poop paper, but also observe the production process and even participate in the making yourself.

Elephant Poop Paper Park is an elephant poop paper park built to promote ecological harmony. The park's operation aims to convey the environmental protection concept of making good use of recycled or alternative resources, reducing deforestation and slowing global warming.

Here, visitors can follow a guide through eight papermaking zones, each dedicated to the eight steps of elephant poop papermaking. The park also offers a dedicated section where you can choose a type of elephant dung prepared by staff and follow the steps. While the papermaking process is lengthy and cannot be taken home, the park does offer souvenirs made from elephant dung.

Climate and best time to travel

Tropical monsoon climate; suitable for travel all year round.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 2-3 hours

Tickets

100 baht/person

Attraction opening hours

9:00-17:30


Most Popular FAQs for Elephant Pu Pu Paper Garden

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Elephant Pu Pu Paper Garden is a unique attraction in Thailand that showcases traditional paper-making techniques. The garden is renowned for its elephant-themed art installations, which celebrate the majestic elephant, a symbol of Thailand's cultural heritage. The garden serves as both an art space and a cultural center, promoting the preservation of traditional paper crafting methods and educating visitors on its importance in Thai history.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Elephant Pu Pu Paper Garden is located in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center, which is about a 30-minute drive away. There is no direct metro or bus service to the garden, but taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are the most convenient options. Walking from the city center is not recommended due to the distance.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Elephant Pu Pu Paper Garden is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the cooler months of November to February, as the weather is more pleasant. Visiting early in the morning or late afternoon allows you to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for the Elephant Pu Pu Paper Garden is typically around 100-150 THB per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and there are no online booking requirements. However, you may check the garden's website or local tour operators for any special offers or group discounts.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for individual visitors, but it is recommended for large groups or if you're planning to participate in a workshop. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient if you're visiting during peak tourist seasons (November to February).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visitors typically spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the garden. If you plan to participate in a paper-making workshop or take a guided tour, you may want to allow an additional hour for those activities.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • The stunning elephant-themed paper sculptures scattered throughout the garden.
  • The paper-making workshop where visitors can create their own unique paper items.
  • The tranquil garden setting, perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
  • The gift shop selling elephant-themed paper products and other local crafts.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and Thai. These tours provide insightful information about the history of the garden and the art of paper making. Audio guides may also be available in certain languages, depending on the time of year and the number of visitors.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • The large paper elephant sculptures offer great photo opportunities, particularly with the surrounding greenery as a backdrop.
  • Viewpoints near the central pond provide scenic views of the garden’s layout and paper art installations.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the entrance area with the large elephant sculptures, then move through the central garden, stopping at the paper-making workshop. Afterward, take a walk around the pond area, and end your visit by browsing the gift shop for souvenirs.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available at the Elephant Pu Pu Paper Garden. The garden is primarily a daytime attraction, and evening visits are not typically offered.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The garden can be busy during the peak tourist season (November to February). For a more peaceful experience, visit in the morning or late afternoon on weekdays, avoiding weekends and public holidays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are clean toilets available at the garden. A small café offers refreshments such as water and light snacks. The gift shop sells paper products and other local crafts. Rest areas are scattered throughout the garden for visitors to relax.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The garden is generally accessible for elderly and children, though some paths may be uneven due to the garden's natural landscaping. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes for walking. The attraction does not have specific provisions for disabled visitors, but most areas can be reached by walking paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for entry fees and purchases. Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted in the gift shop, but credit cards are not typically accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • The garden’s café offers light snacks and refreshments. For more options, local restaurants in Chiang Mai offer a wide variety of Thai and international cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available in the garden's café. Nearby restaurants in Chiang Mai offer a wider range of vegetarian, vegan, and halal options.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai is a luxury option near the garden.
  • For budget accommodations, there are numerous guesthouses and boutique hotels in the city center, about 30 minutes away by taxi.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • The Elephant Nature Park, a sanctuary for rescued elephants, is about 30 minutes away by taxi.
  • The famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a beautiful temple on Doi Suthep mountain, is another popular attraction nearby.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, the garden’s gift shop sells elephant-themed paper products, handmade crafts, and local textiles. These make great souvenirs to take home.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Taxi or ride-hailing services like Grab are convenient for traveling to other parts of Chiang Mai.
  • If you're heading to other nearby attractions like Doi Suthep, you can take a shared songthaew or hire a private car.