Surin Elephant Round Up

Photo by flickr user Nagyman

Not a round up in the usual sense, the Surin Elephant Round Up is a show of elephant training, skills and prowess. Elephants and riders perform shows, demonstrate traditional elephant hunts, play football games and compete in tug of war competitions.

The day starts with an elephant procession of around 300 carrying local dignitaries and people in traditional dress. The parade ends with an ‘Elephant Breakfast’, a vast layout of fruit for the parading elephants to share. Local schools and performing arts troupes entertain the crowds of around 40,000 with music and dancing between elephant events.

As well as being an unusual cultural event this is an amazing opportunity to appreciate the intelligence and agility of one of the world’s most impressive creatures.

In recent years the event has become more popular and tour companies have improved access to Surin.

Written by  World Reviewer Staff.

Comments, reviews and questions by other travellers

As WRS said, it's usually third weekend of November, although it can vary and they don't like officially announcing it till late.

If you want to visit Surin, it can be quite difficult to do so, it's hard to organise unless on the ground in Bangkok and there it will be a day trip from Bangkok - Surin is a good 5 hours away on a good day and there will be a lot of traffic on the roads.

 Dee from Tell Tale Travel - posted 12th January 2010

When exactly does the Elephant round up take place?

The Surin Elephant Round Up sounds fantastic, but from reading your review I have no idea what time of year it occurs. A little assistance please.

 Rachel - posted 7th November 2009

1 Reply

It's usually held the third weekend of November.

 World Reviewer Staff - posted 7th November 2009