SURIN — A journey of lasting connection between humans and elephants, from the past to the present, is showcased at the “Surin Elephant Museum” in Ban Ta Klang, Krapho Subdistrict, Tha Tum District, Surin Province, under the management of the Surin Provincial Administrative Organization.
Built with ancient red bricks, the museum is located within the “Elephant World” project at the Elephant Study Center. Designed by Assistant Professor Boonserm Premthada from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Architecture, the museum’s structure is a testament to both form and function.
Over 45 million baht ($1.35 million) for the renovation, this complex features flexible curved walls that harmonise with the surrounding landscape, creating an open and inviting space for elephants and visitors, as a learning center about the way of life between humans and elephants.
The project was completed and officially opened on September 5, 2023. The Dr. Thiam Chokwatana Foundation, led by Boonkiet Chokwatana, Chairman of S & J International Enterprises PCL, and Boonchai Chokwatana, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Saha Pathanapibul PCL, presided over the opening ceremony. Pornchai Mungcharoenporn, president of the Surin Provincial Administrative Organization, and over 10 corporate partners contributed to the event.
The museum is packed with educational exhibits, such as models depicting the long-standing relationship between humans and elephants, the traditional life of elephant doctors and the “Kru Ba Yai” (elder elephant masters) who captured wild elephants in the forest in ancient times, as well as the customs and traditions of elephant herders, known locally as “Chao Kui, who are known for their skill in capturing wild elephants.
In addition, the museum imparts knowledge about elephants from all over the world and tells the story of the different elephant species with both still images and animated displays. Visitors can travel back in time and see prehistoric elephants, including the rare elephant with four tusks. There are also large, movable elephant models that can make noises. The museum is divided into four air-conditioned areas to ensure visitors have a comfortable visit.
According to Worapoj Saendee, Assistant Tourism Development Officer of the Elephant Study Center, the museum is divided into five sections:
Zone 1: This section deals with wild elephants, royal elephants and domesticated elephants. It includes the history of the founding of Surin Province, the customs and traditions of Kui elephant keepers and the way of life between humans and elephants. Visitors can see a simulation of the elephant herd and elephant capture, and there are photo spots.
In this area you will also find a replica of the old elephant village, the ceremonial “Pra Kam” altar and offerings for the “San Don Ta” ceremony, a traditional custom of Surin province. Some historical photos of Surin are also on display.
Zone 2: In this area, you will find information about elephants around the world, including African savannah elephants, Sumatran elephants, Bornean elephants and Asian elephants. The story of each species is told through animated and still images, and children can play games on a large screen.
Zone 3: This area is dedicated to prehistoric elephants and presents nine different species. Visitors can travel back in time to learn more about these ancient creatures, including the four-tusked elephant. There is a large model imported from abroad that can move and make sounds, and a large projection screen for more information. A tour guide is available for those who want more information.
Zone 4: This section tells the story of the project founder and how older elephants were rescued from hard labor and chains and brought to Saha Pathanapibul Co. This heartwarming story highlights the help given to these elephants not only from Surin but also from other areas, including the provision of food and medical care.
In the Elephant Gallery, beautiful elephant-themed artworks are displayed in two areas. Gallery A features artworks by Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn as well as works by famous artists, businessmen and local artists from Surin and Northeast Thailand.
Gallery B is a rotating exhibition space for the display of artworks and for various events. The highlight is the large elephant models specially designed for the Surin Elephant Museum, reflecting the modern lifestyle of the world’s largest elephant-keeping village. The exit leads to a souvenir store.
The Elephant Museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. The morning session is from 9:00 to 12:00 and the afternoon session is from 13:00 to 16:00. The entrance fee for Thai tourists is 30 baht for children under 10 years old, 40 baht for children 10 years and older and 50 baht for adults. For foreign tourists, the price is 100 baht for children and 200 baht for adults.
For group visits, a letter must be submitted in advance to the chairman of the provincial administration organization. Groups of 20 or more people receive a reduced entrance fee. Separate fees are payable for entry to the “Elephant World” project. For more information, please contact the Surin Provincial Tourism Promotion Department at 065-4678488.
Pornthanet Boonpaeng, a visitor from Nakhon Ratchasima, mentioned that he had been following the work of the architect who designed the Surin Elephant Museum on Facebook and when the opportunity arose, he brought his family to visit. He was not disappointed as he was able to admire the construction and learn about the relationship between humans and elephants, the customs of Surin residents and the Kuay elephant keepers that have been passed down through generations.
Currently, the Surin Elephant Museum attracts 200-300 visitors per day. It is located 62 kilometers from Surin town and can be reached by car via convenient roads on the same day. In addition to the museum, visitors can enjoy elephant shows and elephant rides as part of the “Elephant World” project.
For those who want to visit the museum at a special time, the annual elephant show in Surin will be held on November 16-17, 2024.
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