Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre

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Malaysia boasts an impressive biodiversity and the Asian elephant is one of the country’s most beloved animals. However, shrinking habitats drive wildlife to compete for space and resources with humans. Until 1972, rogue elephants were shot on sight, but thanks to the Elephant Capture and Translocation Program established by the Malaysian Department of Wildlife and National Parks, they are now captured and relocated in Taman Negara National Park with the help of working elephants.

The unit’s headquarters, Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre, shelters a herd of resident elephants, looks after orphaned elephants, supports research activities and provides a rare opportunity to get up close to these gentle giants. In addition to educational displays and movie showings, seven elephants participate in visitor activities. Hand feeding and riding are particularly popular with families, but river bathing was the highlight of my visit: giving a wet rub to a two-year-old hanging on to my hand with his trunk remains my favourite memory of Malaysia.

Kuala Gandah is located a two-hour drive from the capital Kuala Lumpur and can be visited by appointment with individual transportation or on day trips organized by local tour operators.

Where

In Lanchang near the town of Temerloh in the state of Pahang in Central Peninsular Malaysia.

When

Avoid weekends and public holidays if you can.

Written by  Francoise Ohayon.

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