AYUTTHAYA — 7 June 2026, Thailand’s mixed-sex twin elephants, widely regarded as the world’s first mixed-sex elephant twins, celebrated their second birthday on Sunday at a ceremony in Ayutthaya attended by fans, mahouts and supporters.
The celebration was held at the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province for the twins, Plai Sapphalak Sophon and Phang Sakollak Sophit, who were born on 7 June 2024.
The event began at 09:00 with a birthday ceremony organised by elephant handlers and supporters of the twins. A large birthday cake decorated with images of the two elephants was unveiled as visitors gathered to mark the occasion in a festive atmosphere.
The twins have attracted widespread attention since birth because mixed-sex elephant twins are exceptionally rare. Fans who have followed the twins since their birth travelled from across Thailand and abroad to join the celebration.
Organisers said both elephants are in good health and continue to delight visitors with their playful behaviour.
The birthday activities also included a traditional merit-making ceremony. Laithongrian Meepan, owner of the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal, chairman of the Elephant Keepers Club and chairman of the Twin Elephants of the Kingdom Group, led participants in paying respects at the Pakam Shrine, a sacred site revered by elephant handlers.
A merit-making offering was later presented to Phra Khru Kasem Chanthawimon, widely known as Phra Ajarn Daeng, abbot of Wat Pom Ramanya, who gave blessings for the twins’ continued health and wellbeing.
The highlight of the event came when guests sang “Happy Birthday” and gathered around the cake. Among those attending were former boxing champion Khaosai Galaxy, singer Tu Direk Amatayakul and performer Kao Krung Kao, who joined in offering birthday wishes to the elephants.
Riangthongbat Meepan, director of the Ayutthaya Elephant Palace and Royal Kraal and president of the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Tourism Business Association, said the celebration reflected the strong bond that has developed between the twin elephants and their supporters over the past two years.
He added that the venue would continue promoting tourism in Ayutthaya and showcasing the province’s cultural attractions to both Thai and international visitors.
