Chang!

 On the way back from Chiang Dao we stopped at the Elephant Nature Park, which is a rescue and rehabilitation park for elephants. It was bittersweet to visit the park because it was heartbreaking to hear about the stories of suffering the elephants have endured in their lives.  There were many injuries that could be clearly seen and it was unimaginable to hear the sorts of things that have happened to them.  However, to see the elephants walking freely in the park, with the herds they form themselves I was grateful that a park like this exists.  After spending the day at the park it was clear how much work and dedication goes into the care of the almost 35 elephants who live there.  The park is open to the public and volunteers are welcome to come and stay while helping in all of the daily activities.  While we were there we feed the elephants a few times and helped bathe them in the river that surrounds the park!!  That was good for both of us because the temperatures rise quite a bit mid day!

 I got the opportunity to get up close and personal to meet and feed the elephants.  They a tremendous amount of fruit each day. Very happy elephants! :)

 

Pillars to keep the elephants from rubbing against the trees.

Park surrounded by beautiful mountains!

Having a snack!

 I was so impressed by this organization for their commitment and compassion for these majestic creatures who have had painful experiences in their life.  Not only do they work hard to help rehabilitate the elephants, it takes a tremendous amount of work to prepare the food and feed the roughly 35 elephants.  They also pay to purchase elephants who need to be rescued as it is rare that an elephant is donated to the park.

Herd walking through the park.

Friends!

Baby elephant!

Although Asian Elephants are gigantic creatures, they are 1/3 the size of the African Elephant.

Had a wonderful experience at the park and will most likely go back before June!