Baskets with poo poo paper balls at Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park
Poo Poo Paper Park paper balls. Picture by Frans Betgem

Paper made of elephant dung

The Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park is unique

Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park is a unique attraction in Chiang Mai. In 2005 Canadian Michael Flancman and his Thai wife Tun created Poo Poo Paper, a line of recycled paper products made from, as the name suggests, poop. The company, based in Toronto, has been selling these products mainly to retailers and institutions such as museums and zoo. The Elephant Poo Poo Paper Park is in Mae Rim, almost next to the infamous Tiger Kingdom. Please note: there are no elephants at the park. During an excellent self-guided tour, you will see all the stages of the production of paper from dung (excrement of animals) and learn about the history of papermaking.

Paper making from animal dung

Dung contains fibre, and with this fibre, it is possible to make paper. For sale at the park are stationery, notepads, greeting cards and journals all produced from a pulp made with the dung of fibre-eating herbivores such as elephants, horses, cows and donkeys. You can even make your postcard or journal from manure for a small fee and take home. The park is pleasant and spacious, and it doesn’t smell of dung. The park has a coffee shop and a small restaurant. The souvenir shop sells excellent products, ideal for a small present. For an entrance fee of only 100 THB per person, this is a unique and inspiring stop if you are in the area. It is highly recommended.

You can easily visit the Poo Poo Paper Park on your way to Chiang Dao or to the Mae Sa Valley.