A wild elephant amused tourists when it showed up for lunch at a restaurant in Thailand

The male jumbo named 'Plai Leaw' emerged from the forest and walked toward the property in Nakhon Ratchasima province on July 3.

He stood among the trees but was close enough to tables and chairs, sparking excitement among the visitors of Khao Yai National Park.

Footage shows the elephant walking outside the restaurants as some amused customers gather to marvel at the creature closely.

Tourist Ampongpat Heaven said: ‘I heard people chatting about the elephant but I did not bother. When I looked up I saw it standing so close to the restaurant. It showed up right on time for lunch.'

The jumbo lingered for almost half an hour before park rangers led it back to the woods.

There are an estimated 4,000 elephants in Thailand. About half of these live in captivity in animal camps, zoos, and sanctuaries, while the remainder is found roaming national wildlife parks.