Elephant Kraal Pavilion: A Historical Landmark in Ayutthaya
Heading 2: The Historical Significance of the Pavilion
The Pavilion, also known as the Elephant Kraal Pavilion or Phaniat, holds great historical significance in the city of Ayutthaya. Situated north of the city island, it served as the royal seat to witness the elephant round-up, a traditional ceremony to select elephants for official use in both peace and war. In the past, wild elephants were trained here to become war or transport animals. It is believed that during the Ayutthaya period, the stockade was located inside the city wall. However, the current Pavilion was built later and remained in use until the Bangkok period.
Heading 2: Location and Accessibility
The Elephant Kraal Pavilion is located in Suan Phrik sub-district, approximately four kilometers away from the city. Visitors can easily reach the Pavilion by following Highway 347 at km 42-43. It is on the same route as Wat Phu Khao Thong, but a right turn is required to reach the Phaniat Palace. The Pavilion itself is quite spacious, as it was designed to accommodate the king and his entourage during the elephant round-up ceremonies.
Heading 3: Historical Background of the Elephant Round-Up
The Elephant Round-up has been a long-standing tradition in thailand, dating back to the Ayutthaya period and continuing until the reign of King Rama V. The ceremony not only involved the selection of elephants for official use but also served as a form of entertainment for state guests. The Phaniat played a crucial role in this ceremony, as it served as the venue for catching and training wild elephants.
Heading 3: Architecture and Renovations
The current Phaniat is a kraal surrounded by a fence made of entire logs and crow’s wings that spread out on both sides. The surrounding area is fortified with an earth wall made of bricks, reaching a height equal to that of the logs. The pavilion at the back of the Phaniat, which was renovated in 1957, offers a comfortable viewing area for the king and his guests during the elephant round-up.
Over the years, the Phaniat has undergone several renovations to preserve its historical significance. In 1988, the Tourism Authority of Thailand provided funds to the Fine Arts Department for the renovation of the Phaniat. These efforts aimed to ensure the longevity of this historical landmark and maintain its cultural value for future generations.
Heading 2: Ayutthaya Elephant Nursing Center
Approximately 200 kilometers away from the Phaniat is the Ayutthaya Elephant Nursing Center, also known as the Elephant Village. This center serves as a resting area for elephants after their work and provides care for elephant calves. Visitors to the center are welcome to take photos with the young elephants and learn more about their conservation efforts.
Heading 3: Elephant Care and Conservation
The Ayutthaya Elephant Nursing Center plays a crucial role in the care and conservation of elephants in Thailand. After a long day of work, elephants are brought to the center to rest and rejuvenate. The center’s dedicated staff ensures that the elephants receive proper nutrition, medical care, and ample space to roam and socialize.
One of the main attractions at the center is the bathing of elephants. Visitors can witness this daily routine by arriving before 10.30 am or after 4.30 pm. Watching elephants bathe is not only an educational experience but also a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close.
Heading 3: Community Involvement and Homestays
The Ayutthaya Elephant Nursing Center actively involves the local community in its conservation efforts. Local residents are encouraged to participate in activities that promote the well-being of elephants and their natural habitat. This collaborative approach ensures that the conservation efforts are sustainable and benefit both the elephants and the local community.
For visitors looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the daily life of elephant caretakers, homestays are available at the center. This allows tourists to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by elephant caretakers and the importance of conservation in preserving Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.
Heading 2: Conclusion
The Elephant Kraal Pavilion and the Ayutthaya Elephant Nursing Center are two significant landmarks in Ayutthaya that highlight the historical and cultural importance of elephants in Thailand. The Pavilion’s role in the elephant round-up ceremonies reflects the close bond between elephants and the Thai monarchy, while the Elephant Nursing Center showcases the ongoing efforts to protect and conserve these majestic creatures.
Visiting these sites not only offers a glimpse into Thailand’s rich history but also provides an opportunity to support the conservation initiatives dedicated to preserving the future of elephants in the country. Whether it’s witnessing the elephant round-up at the Pavilion or learning about elephant care at the Nursing Center, these experiences allow visitors to appreciate the cultural significance and ecological importance of elephants in Thailand.
Address And Location:
74/1 Moo 3, Highway 3060 Suan Phrik Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000