KUALA GANDAH ELEPHANT CONSERVATION CENTRE
Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre (NECC) is the headquarters for the National Elephant Conservation Unit in Malaysia. Established in 1989 by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN), the centre is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and translocation of displaced wild elephants throughout Peninsular Malaysia.CONSERVATION & TRANSLOCATION
The centre plays a critical role in mitigating human-elephant conflict. As forests become fragmented, wild elephants often venture into plantations. The highly trained unit at Kuala Gandah specializes in the difficult task of capturing and translocating these "problem" elephants to safer, sustainable habitats like Taman Negara.- The Translocation Team: A 24-member unit of specialized rangers manages the rescue operations.
- Trained Elephants: The sanctuary houses resident elephants that are specifically trained to assist in the translocation process, acting as calm "guides" for wild captures.
VISITOR EXPERIENCES & ETHICAL INTERACTION
The centre serves as an important educational platform to raise awareness about the plight of the Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus).- Educational Briefings: Visitors can watch documentaries and attend talks regarding the sanctuary's rescue missions and the biology of Asian elephants.
- Observation: Witness the resident elephants during their daily routines and feeding sessions.
- Interactive Sessions: Limited opportunities to assist with feeding (using provided natural fodder like banana stems).
GETTING THERE
Kuala Gandah is located in Lanchang, Pahang, approximately 120 km (2 hours) from Kuala Lumpur.- Route: Via the Karak Highway heading towards Lanchang. Follow the clear signposts leading to the sanctuary within the southern reaches of the Krau Wildlife Reserve.
- Operating Hours: Typically open daily from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Registration at the visitor centre is mandatory.
Professional Insight: Kuala Gandah is best visited as an educational day trip from Kuala Lumpur. JungleWalla encourages visitors to view this as a conservation facility rather than a traditional zoo.