Elephant Haven
In 1992, 50 acres of land in the Mae Taeng Valley was donated to Lek Chailert and she began the Elephant Haven project. This original parcel of land has now expanded to approximately 150 acres and is the home of Elephant Nature Park. As an extension to the Park, Elephant Haven has relocated up the mountain, located about 90 minutes away by foot, amidst 2000 acres of leased land.
The weekly program treats the elephants, volunteers and mahouts to an overnight journey through 100 acres of lush vegetation, far from the touch of humans and farms. Accompanied by a guide, volunteers and mahouts spend the night camping while the elephants are allowed to roam free in the jungle. In the morning, the team rounds up the elephants from the nearby jungle and walks back down to the Park, stopping along the way to support the Forest Restoration project by tying blessed Monks' cloths around trees.
Unlike other trekking outfits that offer rides, this trek is different and special. Volunteers at the Elephant Nature Park are able to see these elephants interact and be social, and witness the special bonds the herd has created. Free from chains, free from hooks, free from harnesses or wooden chairs, this trekking experience is as much of a treat for visitors as it is for the animals (many of which were former trekking elephants).
Today, Elephant Haven not only provides a fun experience for visitors, but also helps provide sustainable tourism. The land, which is owned by the government, serves as a breeding ground for trees and plants that are natural herbal medicines. These are collected by the guide and mahout, with the help of volunteers, are used to treat any ailments the herd has. Thus, not only is the land put to use, it also places an economic value on the elephant habitat.
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