At a farm in Thailand, a young elephant named Nampuu has become a favorite among tourists, and he is known for his affectionate and playful nature.
Visitors to Patara Elephant Farm in Chiang Mai are often delighted when the little calf eagerly wraps his trunk around them, happily falling into their arms for a hug.
Nampuu, whose name means “fountain” in Thai, lives under the care of the farm’s staff and his mother, Ploy.
Tourists participating in the farm’s “Elephant Owner for the Day” tour have the unique opportunity to interact with Nampuu while learning about elephant care, including health, feeding, communication, and temperament.
As part of this experience, they also receive guidance from trainers, who ensure visitors and elephants are safe during interactions.
Images shared by the farm show excited tourists laughing as the cheeky calf climbs over them, wraps his trunk around their heads, and cuddles up close. Throughout these playful encounters, his mother Ploy, watches over her young calf.
The staff notes that she makes a distinctive rumbling sound to call him over when it’s time for him to feed.
Patara Elephant Farm is particularly proud of Nampuu’s growth. Born unusually small at only 148 pounds—much lighter than the typical 220-pound weight for newborn elephants—the team was initially concerned for his health.
They even built a small step to help him reach his mother for feeding. Today, Nampuu’s lively personality has made him the farm’s cuddly star, charming every visitor lucky to meet him.
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