Lampung has long been known as the Land of Elephants, and Way Kambas as the best known elephant training center. But don't imagine that getting there is easy these days. Getting to the National Park takes at least two hours from the center of town, on a road in terrible condition. This trip is only for the truly adventurous, or tourists with a lot of time on their hands.But not to worry - now there's Taman Wisata Bumi Kedaton (Bumi Kedaton Tourism Park), located in the Batu Putuk area, only 20 minutes from the center of Bandar Lampung. This park was created especially to make it easy for tourists, and the local people of Lampung, to enjoy a family holiday with Sumatra's favorite beasts.
Built on an area of 9 hectares, Bumi Kedaton is like a miniature zoo, with various animal attractions: bears, porcupines, many types of birds, and monkeys. The park is only 75% complete at the moment, but soon it will also feature a crocodile park. Visitors can also see pythons and king cobras, horses performing martial arts, and of course the perennial favorite, the elephants.
The afternoon I was there, the elephant show was just starting. Five elephants were ready by the side of the arena, while one little one had been left behind, having too much fun playing in the river. Once the formation was complete, the attraction started with an elephant parade led by Karmangun, a big 25-year-old male, circling the arena, then all bowing to respectfully welcome the audience.
The various elephants then each had their turns to display their special skills. One raised a flag, another stood up on two legs; they counted, danced, played the harmonica, and so on. Would you allow one of these huge creatures to walk over you? You can volunteer to lie down in the arena for just that purpose. But don't panic; of course they are properly trained not to crush you. You can also ride an elephant while trekking up the river.
So next time you visit Lampung, take the time to have an adventure with the elephants. The park also offers accommodation in 3-bedroom bungalows in traditional Lampung style.
For further information, contact Taman Wisata Bumi Kedaton, Jl. Dr. Setia Budi Batu Putuk, Bandar Lampung Tel +62 (721) 7465450,251617.
(Source : article and photo by Garuda-Indonesia.Com magazine)
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