Experience a meaningful encounter with Malaysia’s gentle giants at the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, a conservation center dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of endangered Asian elephants. Nestled in the lush rainforests of Pahang, the sanctuary offers visitors a chance to observe these majestic animals up close, learn about their rescue stories, and understand the critical role they play in the ecosystem. From educational briefings to feeding sessions and river bathing (subject to availability), the sanctuary provides an unforgettable blend of wildlife education and responsible tourism.
The Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary is a dedicated conservation and relocation center located about two hours from Kuala Lumpur, aimed at protecting Malaysia’s endangered Asian elephants. Managed by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, the sanctuary rescues displaced elephants and helps relocate them to safer forest reserves across the country. Visitors to the sanctuary can enjoy an educational experience that includes watching documentary videos, observing the elephants during feeding and bathing sessions, and learning about conservation efforts from trained guides. Set amidst a tranquil natural environment, the sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to witness the gentle nature of these magnificent animals while supporting a noble cause.
8:00 AM – Pick-Up from Hotel in Kuala Lumpur
Begin your journey with a hotel pick-up in Kuala Lumpur. Enjoy a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive through lush countryside and traditional Malay villages en route to the sanctuary in Pahang.
10:00 AM – Arrival & Registration at Kuala Gandah
Upon arrival, register at the visitor center. You’ll have time to explore exhibits about elephant conservation, browse souvenir stalls, or freshen up before the activities begin.
11:00 AM – Elephant Viewing Session
Observe the elephants in their naturalistic enclosures. Learn about their behavior, feeding habits, and the stories of how they were rescued. Sanctuary guides provide insightful commentary on their rehabilitation process.
12:00 PM – Educational Video Presentation
Watch a short documentary that outlines the sanctuary’s mission, its efforts in relocating displaced elephants, and the importance of conserving Malaysia’s forest ecosystem.
1:00 PM – Lunch Break
Enjoy lunch at a local eatery near the sanctuary or at the on-site café. You can relax and recharge before the afternoon session begins.
2:00 PM – Interactive Elephant Activities
Join in on the interactive experience with the elephants. Depending on weather and availability, you may be able to feed the elephants and watch or participate in a bathing session in the river (seasonal and subject to health regulations). Learn about each elephant’s individual care plan.
3:00 PM – Free Time for Exploration
Stroll around the sanctuary grounds, visit the mini museum, take photos, or speak with the guides to ask more questions. You may also choose to make a small donation or purchase locally made items that support conservation efforts.
3:30 PM – Depart for Kuala Lumpur
Say farewell to the elephants and begin your return trip to Kuala Lumpur. Reflect on your experience during the relaxing drive back.
5:30 PM – Drop-Off at Hotel
Arrive back in Kuala Lumpur by early evening, marking the end of your meaningful and memorable visit to the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary.
Tour Ends
ENTRANCE FEE
LUNCH
FULL CHARGES APPLIES FOR NO SHOW OR LAST MINUTE CANCELLATION.
TIMING AND ITINERARY SUBJECT TO CHANGES (WEATHER, TRAFFIC CONDITIONS AND UNFORSEEN CIRCUMSTANCES).
TOURS ARE ALL CONDUCTED IN ENGLISH AND VEHICLE SHARING BASIS (SIC) **unless differently specified**
SIC itinerary is arranged according to the number of participants on the day (car/van/minibus).
Pick up time and contact details will be send 1 day before visit date by email in the evening time before 8pm.
If the vehicle does not arrive in more than 10 minutes, please contact the emergency contact us, we will coordinate for you immediately.
Please make sure traveler mobile phone number is active and able to contacted during the travel period.
Guest to be patient in cases of unforeseen delays along the pick-up route.
Driver On Duty is subjected to change with/without notice, please advice guest be punctual and standby before pick up time.
During major festivals, there will be road closures and traffic jams. The return journey can only be sent to the drop-off point closest to the hotel according to the road conditions that day. The specific location will be determined by the driver at that time.
No eating or drinking is allowed inside the car/van/buses. Food can easily become messy, or someone might bump into you, having you spill your drink or squash your food, letting it fall to the floor.