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ELEPHANT WELFARE IN ASIA

Posted 15/05/2018

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With immediate effect One Traveller are acting on concerns regarding the treatment of Elephants in Sri Lanka and Thailand.

In Sri Lanka we have in the past visited the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage on day four of our itinerary. For 2019 due to heightened concerns we had already planned to visit the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe run by the Born Free Foundation on day 11 instead of Pinnawela. After hearing some disturbing reports in the last few weeks as to the nature in which Pinnawela is run and the welfare of the elephants we have decided to bring forward this measure for all our holidays with immediate effect.

The Born Free Foundation undertake excellent work in rescuing and rehabilitating orphan elephants and returning them to the wild when they are ready, as an alternative to living permanently in captivity. From a safe distance our guests will observe the orphaned elephants, witness feeding, and learn of the great efforts of the home and foundation during this unique experience.

After similar reports in Thailand we had made changes to our 2019 itineraries whilst in Chiang Mai to stop elephant camp visits that had a somewhat ‘circus’ element to them and will now be switching visits to the more natural setting of the Elephant Nature Park also with immediate effect. Elephant Nature Park is a unique project set in Chiang Mai province, Northern Thailand. Established in the 1990’s their aim has always been to provide a sanctuary and rescue centre for elephants. The park is located some 60km from the city and has provided a sanctuary for dozens of distressed elephants from all over Thailand.

At One Traveller the preservation and care of these beautiful creatures is something that we take with high regard and also would like to thank our Tour Managers for their astute observations and relaying our guests concerns.

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