As the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, confining many of us to our homes, I discovered a silver lining during my virtual travels on YouTube live streams. It was here that I first met the residents of Banrai Baibun, an elephant sanctuary born out of love and necessity during these unprecedented times.
Thailand’s tourism industry was one of the many casualties of the pandemic. Kee, an elephant keeper, faced the heart-wrenching decision to sell his beloved elephant, Plai Mam, at a reduced price. It was a moment of desperation until the incredible happened: Plai Mam, along with Kun Chang, the older elephant, broke free and seemingly pleaded with Kee to reconsider. Moved by their actions, Kee rescinded his decision. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a heartwarming journey that would lead to the birth of elephant girl Baibun on November 2, 2020, and later, the establishment of the Banrai Baibun farm—a sanctuary that would become a haven for these gentle giants.
My engagement with the farm was through the interactive charm of a live YouTube chat, connecting me with Kee and his elephants. The farm's channel shared not just enchanting images but also stories that bound us to their cause. I contact the elephant farm via live YouTube chat. The following links are the farms I have visited. Many of the farms have their YouTube channel. I was able to communicate with people who speak English and Thai in the YouTube live chat there.
https://www.youtube.com/@PlaiMan_Youtube
The journey to visit the elephant village in September 2023 was filled with anticipation. After a short flight from Don Mueang Airport to Buriram, I was welcomed by Kee's warm hospitality. The drive to the village was an hour of traveling through changing landscapes until we reached "the largest elephant village in the world," a signpost that marked the gateway to a different realm where humans and elephants have shared a sacred bond for centuries.
With nine elephants to boast, including the young Baibun and the five-month-old Jombun, the farm was a testament to the coexistence of tradition and animals. We fed them bananas, their favorite treat, and were embraced by the community through rituals that tied us together—literally, with cords around our wrists—and figuratively, with the gift of hand-woven silk and traditional Isaan cuisine.
We stayed at a hotel called Baanchang Resort for 500 baht per night. There is a shower with air conditioner, hot water and a flush toilet. Coffee service is available from 8:00 a.m. in the morning. There is an Isaan hot pot restaurant called Chimuchumu near the hotel.
https://www.facebook.com/BaanchangResort/
The next day, we visited the ElephantNongcream channel's farm, where we were introduced to Cream and the newborn Jomkwan. Our walk through the lush scenery became a journey through the elephants' routine and a lesson in their herbal diets.
https://www.youtube.com/@nongcreamfamily
Visiting the Elephant Museum enriched our understanding of the village's history, and despite the draw of the elephant show, I was struck by the contrasting philosophies of elephant owners like Kee and Gen, who chose not to include their animals in these performances.
At Wat Paarjeng, the elephant temple, we encountered a reverence for elephants that transcended mere symbolism, with the world's only elephant tomb serving as a poignant reminder of this deep bond.
As I left the village, I carried with me the profound words of the elephant keepers. Their rejection of city life in favor of a symbiotic existence with these noble creatures was not just a lifestyle choice but a continuation of an age-old legacy. It is this relationship, built on trust and affection, that they hoped to pass down through generations.
My experience in Thailand’s elephant village was more than just an encounter; it was an immersive cultural revelation. It served as a powerful testament to the harmony that can exist between humanity and nature—a lesson I hope remains undisturbed in the tides of change.