Surin is a rarely visited province in the northeast. But once a year, on the third weekend of November, the spotlight is very much directed at the province as the venue for one of the most exciting spectacles of the year-the annual Elephant Round-Up.

Surin has long been associated with elephants. The folks here are well recognized for their skill in capturing and rounding up wild elephants as well as training and taming them. Surin is often known as the 'province of elephants'.

Many of Surin's elephants and their mahouts travel to places like Bangkok to earn money for much of the year. But in November, they all head back to their native province for the big occasion.

Every year, more than 100 elephants take part in this event. The Elephant Round-up displays the amazing grace, strength and intelligence of this huge creature in games of soccer, log carrying, and the tug-of-war against human teams. The talent and playfulness of the pachyderms never fail to draw cheers from the spectators.

The highlight of the show is the mock battle, which best shows the talent and strength of this lovable animal. In times past, elephants played a key role in wars against invading armies.

Previously, the elephant round-up was a state ceremony presided over only by the King. Prayers and citations were devised for the ceremony and for the taming of the captured elephants afterwards.

The annual Elephant Round-up is by far and away the most popular festival of Surin and perhaps the whole of the northeastern region. Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness the incredible skill and intelligence of the elephant - Thailand's national symbol.

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