During the Thingyan holiday, Wanet Elephant Camp, located on the route to Yeywa Dam between Mandalay and PyinOoLwin saw around 300 visitors per day, marking a significant increase compared to the previous year, according to the official in charge.
Many visitors were drawn to see Nyein Chan Oo, a three-month-old calf born on Independence Day (4 January). The camp also features a playground for children.
The official added: “We've arranged bamboo mats and fans to offer a comfortable resting spot for visitors at our camp ahead of the holiday. Interestingly, this year, many visitors are making deliberate trips to our location and not just stopping by incidentally. Even on weekdays, we're seeing a steady flow of 50 to 100 visitors per day.”
Visitors particularly enjoy the shaded space offered by the camp.
The camp had been busy from the beginning of Thingyan, 13 April, to the second day of New Year, 18 April.
“The calf seemed delighted by the presence of visitors. Despite their desire to interact with him directly, we had to maintain him within a small enclosure for his safety.
Additionally, we observed at least four people per day arranging banquets for the elephants”.
The food stalls for both visitors and elephants reported higher revenue during the holiday. The camp charges K1,000 for admission and K3,000 for one short trip of elephant ride. — Maung Aye Chan/NT
