3Pok wake with elephants

The riverside was so peaceful, and our room was comfortable and nice. Breakfast was great too. The staff were helpful and hospitable throughout. Getting to feed the elephants their breakfast right from our room in the morning was amazing. I also booked the half-day elephant tour, which was a really good experience. I’d stay at this resort again to spend more time with the elephants.

The best part is having the elephants come visit your cabin at 8 am. You do have to pay for it, but I thought it was worth it. It’s a little out of the way, though the setting is lively. We spent two nights and loved how peaceful it was. Think luxury glamping: the cabin was small but clean and comfortable, with good hot water and a great shower. Dinner on site was tasty, and breakfast is set.

I paid 200 USD for two nights, and it was the worst deal I’ve ever made. There’s little to do unless you buy their tours. Reception and food service are in an ugly, blue-lit space that isn’t cozy or comfortable. Loud party music carries late into the night, along with noise from guests sleeping right beside you, separated only by plywood. These cabins don’t feel like a resort. There’s no mountain view, and the windows face straight into the courtyard, so you have to keep the curtains shut for privacy. The cabins are ugly plywood, with no bedside lamp, leaving you with either the full light or no light. They don’t provide water, so you have to buy all of it there. I also don’t consider it a sanctuary. The elephants are chained to a tree in the forest across the river for 20 hours a day. They have no shelter and can’t touch each other. I saw one rocking back and forth as if it were going insane, looking very sad. It seemed like the elephants didn’t want to return after meeting tourists. Please stay elsewhere and visit a real sanctuary where elephants have land to roam.

The rooms were clean and comfortable, and the property was well kept. Everyone on staff was warm and accommodating. Myo and Lin, two young staff members from Myanmar, seemed to handle almost everything, from check-ins to meals. They were incredibly kind and efficient, always there if we needed extra pillows at night or help with food. They’re clearly working very hard and seemed understaffed. Maria was lovely too. She helped us feel at home and was open to suggestions, including the idea of healthier juices made with local fruits. I’d love to see more fresh seasonal choices in the future. Thanks, Myo, Lin, and Maria!