New CMU Elephant Hospital

September 26

CMU Opens “Elephant Hospital” at the Elephant and Wildlife Health Center, Strengthening Elephant Healthcare in Northern Thailand
September 26, 2026 — Ms. Kanchana Silpa-archa presided over the opening ceremony of the Elephant Hospital Building, Elephant and Wildlife Health Center (Kanchana Silpa-archa Building), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University (CMU), in Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai Province.
The ceremony was attended by Phra Kru Sangharak Weerawiwat Weerawattano (Phra Kru Aod), Prof. Dr. Pongrak Sribunditmongkol, President of Chiang Mai University, executives of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, project supporters, and partner organizations.
The opening of the Elephant Hospital marks another significant milestone for the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, in advancing elephant healthcare in Northern Thailand. CMU has continuously provided elephant healthcare services for more than 20 years, including through its Mobile Elephant Clinic, which has traveled to provide examinations and treatment for elephants across several provinces.
However, providing treatment in remote areas often requires considerable travel time, creating limitations for elephants requiring intensive or continuous medical care. The establishment of a dedicated elephant hospital in Mae Taeng District—an area with a significant population of domesticated elephants—will help improve access to timely and appropriate veterinary care for elephants throughout the northern region.
The Elephant Hospital Building was developed with 49.25 million baht in financial support from Ms. Kanchana Silpa-archa, covering construction and the development of facilities equipped to provide comprehensive elephant healthcare services.
The hospital is capable of accommodating at least six critically ill or seriously injured elephants at the same time. In addition to serving as a treatment facility, it will function as a learning and practical training center for veterinary students and veterinarians, as well as a hub for research and the development of knowledge related to elephant health and welfare. These efforts are expected to contribute to the long-term advancement of standards for elephant healthcare in Thailand.
The opening of the Elephant Hospital reflects a collaborative effort among Chiang Mai University, government agencies, the private sector, elephant camp operators, mahout communities, and supporters from various sectors. Together, they are working to establish a systematic approach to elephant healthcare and welfare.
The Elephant and Wildlife Health Center in Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai, will serve as a regional hub for elephant treatment, education, practical training, research, and knowledge development, further strengthening the network for elephant healthcare and welfare in Northern Thailand.