Elephant Round-Up in Surin
Surin, which is located in North East Thailand, holds every year a colorful festival dedicated to elephants. The old festival started in 1960 and is held on the third weekend of November (Saturday – Sunday). The residents of Surin have an ancient tradition of raising and taming elephants as working animals.
In the last years, the economic value of the elephants as working animals decreased so their growth changed to entertainment requirements. On the first day of the festival, on Saturday, a magnificent parade, with the participation of more than 200 elephants takes place. The school pupils and teachers join the parade with dance, music and songs.
Due to the numerous visitors during the Elephant Round-Up days and the high demand for accommodations it is recommended to check hotel rates and book rooms well in advance.
At the ending point of the parade, in Elephant roundabout, on Prasat Way the elephants get breakfast. The elephants arrive to counters full of vegetables and fruits and eat all of it with good appetite. This is a unique tourists’ attraction. On Sunday, the second day of the festival, the elephants are gather in Surin Elephant Show Stadium to a central show that includes restoration of battles from the former decade performed by “warriors” riding on elephants.
Elephant Extravaganza
Should not be missed. A once in a lifetime experiencer,
Robert Australia.
Parade and breakfeast (buffet) for the elephants
don’t miss the parade and the buffet. It is always on Friday!!!! The parade starts early (about 7am) at the station, goes to the Surin Pakdi monument, ending in the Prasat Road with the buffet. You will also get opportunity to ride on elephants.