About This Activity
Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary is 2 hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur. The sanctuary is managed by the Malaysian Department of Wildlife and National Parks. It offers visitors hands-on introduction to the largest mammal on earth. Being the only center in Malaysia, the team is dedicated to locating, subduing, and translucent problem elephants from areas where their habitats are constantly being encroached by plantations. This conservation method was initiated to preserve the species and care for the young before they’re released into the wild. Tourists can engage in several activities with elephants.
Your shared tour commences with hotel pickup by a driver-guide in Kuala Lumpur. As you board the air-conditioned vehicle, your guide will introduce herself and outline the itinerary for the day. You will then carry on to the first stop for the tour, Batu Caves. The ride to Batu Caves is around 30 minutes going through the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur. On the way, your guide will tell you interesting stories about the history and importance of Batu Caves. Upon arrival, you are greeted by the towering limestone hills and the magnificent 140-foot golden statue of Lord Murugan.
You begin your climb up the 272 steps to the main cave temple, a journey that is both physically invigorating and thrilling at the same time. As you climb, you’ll notice vivid murals of Hindu scripture that adorn the walls, each telling a story of devotion and mythology. The path is often lively, with the presence of macaques that live on the lush cliff face.
Reaching the top, you enter the vast cathedral-like cave, home to 2 main temples. The cool air and dim lighting create a mystical atmosphere, enhancing the sense of reverence and awe. Your guide leads you through the various shrines, explaining their significance and the rituals associated with them. The main temple cave, known as Temple Cave or Cathedral Cave, is particularly impressive with its high vaulted ceiling and intricate sculptures. You have ample time to explore, pray, and take in the serene beauty of this sacred place.
After descending from the cave, you embark on a two-hour scenic drive to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, managed by the Malaysian Department of Wildlife and National Parks. As you travel, your guide shares interesting facts about the sanctuary and the important work being done to conserve the endangered Asian elephant population.
Upon arrival at the sanctuary, you are given a short briefing about elephant conservation. The guide provides an overview of the sanctuary’s mission to locate, subdue, and relocate problem elephants from areas where their habitats are constantly being encroached upon by plantations. This conservation method aims to preserve the species and care for the young before they are released back into the wild. Your guide explains the various activities you will be participating in, ensuring you are well-prepared for an unforgettable experience.
The first activity at the sanctuary is feeding the elephants. You are provided with fresh fruits and vegetables, which you offer to these gentle giants. As you get up close and personal with the elephants, you can feel their rough skin and strong trunks as they delicately take the food from your hands. This intimate interaction allows you to appreciate the elephants’ intelligence and gentle nature, creating a profound connection with these magnificent creatures.
You can also watch an elephant show, where the elephants will perform tricks to showcase their remarkable ability and intelligence. It is a show built on entertaining as well as educational factors and shows how the elephants are trained with their trainers. Learn about the training methods that are used and how caring interactions with these animals are so important from your driver-guide. The show showcases the incredible strength, agility, and memory of elephants, making this an awe-inspiring experience.
After your adventures with the elephants have come to an end, your guide will then take you on a short drive to Deerland Park, home to several species of deer and other wildlife. While you walk through the park, eat and play with deer all over as your guide tells you about their habits. The backdrop of Deerland is scenic and is a place to unwind, relax in nature.
The final stop of the tour is Aborigines Village, where you gain insights into the traditional lifestyle and culture of Malaysia’s indigenous people. Your guide introduces you to the villagers, who warmly welcome you into their community. You have the opportunity to learn about their customs, traditional crafts, and way of life, gaining a deeper appreciation for Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage.
After a day filled with diverse and captivating experiences, you are comfortably driven back to your hotel in Kuala Lumpur, bidding farewell to your driver guide.
