The Kingdom of a Million Elephants

Blog > Natural Heritage > The Kingdom of a Million Elephants

The present-day Lao People’s Democratic Republic traces its historic and cultural identity to one of Southeast Asia’s largest kingdoms – Lan Xang Hom Khao, also known as the Land of a Million Elephants and the White Parasol. A century ago Laos was a sanctuary for some 40 000 wild elephants, but their numbers have been drastically reduced to 1,000 due to deforestation, poachers seeking ivory, and tourism. Today in Laos a dozen of elephant sanctuaries are committed towards elephant preservation.

 

Ho Chi Minh trail

The Elephant Conservation Center, supported by the NGO Elefant Asia, was established in Sayaboury as Laos’ first elephant veterinary facility, taking care of animals that have been injured in logging accidents or affected by disease. Visit the center and meet its veterinarians to understand how they are protecting and preserving this mystical giant with clay feet that is on its way to extinction. Engage with the magnificent mammals by feeding them or helping with their daily bath. Visit the nursery, where elephant calves are learning how to sustain themselves under the close watch of their mothers

 

© Auu Chotiga

 

Natural Heritage