As our plane glided above the lush Cambodian terrain, we were welcomed by the sight of sprawling rice fields, meandering rivers, and ancient temples. Cambodia, a country rich in history and cultural heritage, was about to become our home for a week.
Upon touchdown at Siem Reap Airport, we were greeted by warm smiles and a hearty welcome from the sanctuary staff. As we made our way north of the world-renowned Angkor Wat temple complex, we were taken aback by the sanctuary’s vastness. Nestled on the edge of the Kulen Promtep Wildlife Sanctuary, the Elephant Sanctuary Cambodia sprawled across 32,000 acres of land that was once a verdant, wildlife-rich forest. The sanctuary’s mission was monumental – protecting and restoring a land heavily impacted by illegal logging and poaching.
Our arrival at the sanctuary was marked by the aroma of a delicious vegan Thai lunch, a savory introduction to the region’s culinary delights. Post-lunch, we were ushered to our accommodation – rustic huts that were the epitome of simplistic living. Bereft of luxuries like flushing toilets, hot water, air conditioning, and stable electricity or Wi-Fi, our huts were an invitation to reconnect with the earth and nature.
Day 1: In the Footsteps of Giants
Our first day at the sanctuary was spent shadowing the mighty elephants, the sanctuary’s primary inhabitants. Observing these creatures in their element, particularly the majestic Kaavan who was rescued from a zoo in Pakistan, was a humbling experience. The process of preparing food for the elephants and monkeys was our first hands-on encounter with the day-to-day operations of the sanctuary.
Day 2: Rolling Up Our Sleeves
Day two saw us getting our hands dirty, quite literally. We started the day by cleaning the elephant shelters. As we cut banana trees and grass to prepare more food for the elephants and monkeys, our admiration for the tireless efforts of the sanctuary staff grew. As dusk fell, we were blessed with a traditional Cambodian ritual, performed by a revered Khmer spiritual person. The spiritual blessing, with its powerful aura, bonded us even closer to Cambodia’s rich cultural ethos.
Day 3: A Walk on the Wild Side and a Lesson in Giving
Our third day began with a soulful journey through the Cambodian jungle, accompanied by our elephant friends. Walking alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat was a profound experience. The latter half of the day was spent at a local school, where we taught children English and numbers. The sparkle in their eyes as they grasped new concepts filled our hearts with joy. The day ended with a moving documentary about Kaavan’s journey from captivity in Pakistan to freedom in Cambodia, a poignant reminder of why sanctuaries like these are critical.
Day 4: Reflecting Among the Giants
On day four, as we cleaned the shelters, we took some time to reflect on our journey so far. Watching the elephants, like Di-Ploh and Sarai Mia, roam freely in the sanctuary, we felt a deep sense of satisfaction at being part of such a noble mission.
Day 5: A Day for Kaavan
Day five was dedicated to Kaavan. As we cleaned his enclosure and gathered grass for his meals, we were reminded of the enormous daily effort required to keep these magnificent animals healthy and content.
Day 6: A Promise for the Future
Our final working day at the sanctuary was full of activity and reflection. Another exhilarating walk in the jungle was followed by a seed-planting session. Each seed we sowed was a promise to the future, a hope for a greener, healthier sanctuary.
The Farewell
Saturday morning arrived all too soon, bringing with it the time to bid adieu to our temporary home. As we said our goodbyes to the elephants, the sanctuary, and the remarkable staff, our hearts were heavy, yet full of gratitude. As our flight ascended into the skies, we left behind a piece of our hearts in Cambodia, carrying with us indelible memories and lessons of humility, compassion, and resilience.
This was more than just a trip; it was an experience that transcended conventional tourism. It was a week where we discovered the profound joy of giving, the beauty in simplicity, and the magic of coexistence.
Travel Footprints 