Located in the heart of Thailand, 2.5 hours’ drive north-east of Bangkok, Khao Yai is a captivating destination for travellers seeking a perfect blend of natural beauty, local culture, wildlife, adventure and much more. The UNESCO World Heritage Site offers lush landscapes, diverse ecosystems and a plethora of activities that promise an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Khao Yai National Park is one of the country’s oldest and most majestic national parks. Spanning over 2,000 square kilometers, the park is a haven for nature lovers. Home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, Khao Yai offers unique opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts where visitors can see exotic species such as wild elephants, gibbons and a diverse arrange of birdlife.
The Elephant is the national symbol of Thailand and represents strength, loyalty, endurance and intelligence. The Thai Elephant Research and Conservation Fund (TERF) was a natural choice in seeking a Corporate Social Responsibility partnership for InterContinental Khao Yai Resort to give back to the local community and promote awareness of the important work that TERF does to protect these magnificent animals.
Dr Alongkot Chukaew is the Director of TERF and is an elephant researcher and advocate. He works tirelessly to educate people to protect elephants in their natural habitat and conducts workshops and camps for local school children and residents, teaching them about animal welfare and environmental issues affecting the elephants. TERF’s mission is to promote public participation in elephant conservation through education and raising awareness, working with colleagues in the field both in Thailand and around the world.
In launching its new CSR partnership, InterContinental Khao Yai Resort now opens up this opportunity to its international guests as well, with the opportunity to visit the Centre which is located in 7.9 acres, and home to 3 rescued elephants. The Centre is a one-hour drive from the Resort. Guests can visit the Centre between 9.00 am to 5.00pm and enjoy the elephant experience. There is no entrance charge.
Alternatively, guests can book through the resort to attend one of 3 educational courses during which they learn about various types of elephants and their evolution, biology, ecology and behaviour, as well as elephant care and management. The course is suitable for all ages and allows participation in activities such as feeding and bathing the elephants. Two of the courses run from 9.00am to 11.00am and the longer course finishes at 12.00 noon. The courses are Baht 650 (approx. USD 18.00), Baht 850 (approx. USD 24.00) and Baht 1,000 (approx. USD 30.00) per person respectively depending on which one the guest prefers. Prearrangement of one days’ notice is required in order to book the courses.
“We are delighted to be launching our first CSR partnership with TERF and to help raise global awareness and funds for the critical work Dr Alongkot and his team do to help these magnificent animals” said Sandy Liw, General Manager of the InterContinental Khao Yai Resort.
Donations can be made directly to TERF while visiting the facility, or through the hotel who will then pass them onto Dr Alongkot and his team for which receipts will be issued.
Designed by acclaimed architect and designer Bill Bensley, InterContinental Khao Yai Resort comprises 45 luxurious rooms and 19 Heritage Railcar Suites and Villas), located in 19 hectares of lush tropical landscape with over 30,000 trees and five lakes. The Suites and Villas, Back on Track Spa (with 4 treatment suites), Tea Carriage and popular Planet Trekkers Kids Club are housed in previously abandoned heritage train carriages from the 19th century that have been meticulously and exquisitely restored.
Combined with renowned Thai hospitality and intuitive service, the resort offers the finest accommodation in Khao Yai with signature restaurants that raise the bar for dining and culinary experiences.
Rates at InterContinental Khao Yai Resort start from USD 290 per night for twin or double occupancy and include breakfast. Rates are subject to applicable service charge and government taxes.
