Photos: Thai couples marry on elephants for Valentine's Day

Parade of pachyderms carrying 9 couples marched slowly through Nong Nooch Tropical Garden

Last updated: February 14, 2024 | 14:15

Compiled by Nathaniel Lacsina, Senior Web Editor and with inputs from Reuters

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Chonburi: Reflecting Thailand's long association with the majestic beasts, couples riding elephants wearing traditional dress chose this Valentine's Day to exchange their vows in a mass wedding featuring the pachyderms.

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The ceremony is sacred which makes everyone want to have a wedding atop of the elephants," said one of the brides, 36-year-old Narumon Komgpanoy.

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"Elephants are considered household and city companions, as well as a symbol of national prosperity" she said.

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Flowers are arranged in the shape of a heart on the head of an elephant.

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The parade of elephants carrying nine couples marched slowly through the Nong Nooch Tropical Garden in Chonburi province, about a two hour drive south of the capital Bangkok.

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With dancers in traditional costumes leading the procession, the couples rode their elephants up to a local district official, also sat on an elephant, who oversaw the signing of the marriage licenses.

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A couple receives their marriage license from an officer while riding elephants.

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An elephant throws a flower bouquet towards couples. The elephant is Thailand's national animal and for a time a white elephant, a symbol of good fortune, was featured on the Thai flag.

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