Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey

Monday, June 13, 2022

The Galata Tower is without a doubt one of the most recognisable landmarks in Istanbul. It also offers visitors spectacular views over the city and the beauty that surrounds it. In this article, we will be sharing an overview of what to expect when visiting the Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey!

History of Galata Tower

The precise time when the tower was erected is unfortunately not known. However, it is thought to have been around 527 AD, during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian. The Genoese called it the 'Christea Turris' or the Tower of Christ, while the Byzantines called it the 'Megalos Pyrgos' or the Great Tower. When a massive earthquake struck Istanbul in 1509, the tower was severely damaged. It was subsequently reconstructed by Hayreddin who was a prominent Ottoman architect. While the origin of the Galata Tower is still unknown, it is thought to have been erected by the Romans or the Genoese Colony.

Galata Tower is claimed to have been constructed during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian

The exact origin of the Galata Tower still remains a mystery today

Facts & what to expect

Standing at the height of 63 metres, Galata Tower is famously known as the eyes of Istanbul. With a balcony at the top, it offers a panoramic view of the city. Galata Tower is a must-see historical treasure of Turkey, located near the end of Istiklal Avenue - Istanbul's most frequented and busiest commercial area. Hundreds of tourists visit the tower every day, therefore you can expect a long queue during your visit.

Things to do at Galata Tower

There are a total of 11 levels and an elevator inside. It is recommended that you take the elevator up and then walk down to get a better view of the city. On the top floor, there is a viewing deck with a spectacular view of the city and the Bosporus, as well as a nightclub and café. In the evening, you may enjoy supper with Turkish folk dances and belly dance performances. Please keep in mind that you must make a reservation in advance and inquire about the performance schedule to avoid missing the show!

Breath-taking views from the top of the Galata Tower

For a full experience, it is recommended that you take the elevator up and then walk down.

Entrance fees

The admission fee to the Galata Tower is priced at 130 Turkish lira per person in 2022.

Nearby attractions to visit

The Galata Tower is located close to a variety of landmarks, museums, and public spaces, including the Istiklal Avenue, St. Antoine Church, Pera Museum, Galata Mevlevi House, and Crimean Memorial Church, all of which are located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Galata. There are also many restaurants and cafés for you to check out as well.

Many popular Istanbul attractions are within walking distance from the Galata Tower

How to get there to Galata Tower

Take the M2 metro line to the Şişhane Metro Station for the quickest access to the Galata Tower. Galata Tower can be seen from the Metro Station exit and is only a five-minute walk away. You may also use a bus, taxi or by renting a car as well to arrive at Taksim, which is a short walk away.

Contact information

Website | Facebook

Address: Bereketzade, Galata Kulesi, 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul, Turkey

Opening hours: 9am–10pm

Contact number: +90 212 245 41 41

With views of the Bosporus, Golden Horn, Uskudar, Asiatic hills, Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Sultan Ahmet Mosque, Galata Tower is undoubtedly one of the city's best vantage points. Not only do you get to see the eyes of Istanbul with your own eyes, but due to its strategic place, you can conveniently visit other nearby attractions too.

Don't forget to share your travel & dining moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Happy travelling!

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Lithuania Travel

Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

Friday, June 10, 2022

The Hill of Crosses is a powerful symbol of hope, faith, and liberty. It has now become one of the must-visit destinations for pilgrims in Lithuania. In this article, we will be sharing all the information that you should know about the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania and why you should visit this sacred place.

Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

History of Hill of Crosses

The tradition of planting crosses at this location started in 1850 or earlier. This purposeful gesture is a way to remember the victims of the Tsarist government's 1831 insurrection. After the second insurrection in 1863, the number of crosses increased. Shortly after, the Hill of Crosses gained a reputation as a sacred site, and pilgrims began to flock the area, notably during the Soviet era.

As the Soviets began to regard the hill as a symbol of resistance to their authority, the crosses were burned, destroyed, or used as scrap metal. Despite that, Lithuanians covertly continued to plant crosses as a show of solidarity until a total of about 500 crosses were erected on the hill by 1973. The Soviets demolished the crosses once again and immediately dispatched soldiers to the hill to prevent any additional peaceful protests. Undeterred by the presence of the soldiers, many courageous Lithuanians continued to visit the hill in the dead of the night, adding fresh crosses every day to show their defiance and resistance to oppression.

The Hill of Crosses were swamped with crosses after Lithuania declared its independence. Today, you can see crosses in all shapes and types: big, small, metal, wooden, stone, and nearly every other material conceivable.

View of the Hill of Crosses from above

Discover crosses in all shapes and types: big, small, metal, wooden, stone, and nearly every other material conceivable.

After Lithuania declared its independence, the Hill of Crosses started to gain popularity.

What to see and expect

The Hill of Crosses is an eerily magnificent destination. The path through the maze of crosses is marked by little trails. The freezing Lithuanian wind whips across the exposed location, and the crosses jingle in the breeze, giving it a surreal appearance. It is understandable when people have a divided view of this place – some will say this place is unique and others might think it's spooky. However, keep in mind that these are just crosses that people plant – and it is not a burial ground. You can even bring your children to explore this place with you. As you discover the smaller, hidden trails, you are allowed to take pictures as well.

It is said that a figure of Jesus sitting under a roof is the most iconic statue at the location. The monument is claimed to represent Jesus worshipping in secret, and it dates back to a time when religion was illegal in Lithuania. When Pope John Paul II visited the site in 1993, he proclaimed it a place of hope, peace, love, and sacrifice, emphasising its religious significance. On the summit, he celebrated mass and dubbed Lithuania the "Country of Crosses."

This figure represents Jesus worshipping in secret during a time when religion was illegal in Lithuania.

Eerie or beautiful? You decide!

Every corner at the Hill of Crosses is a sight to behold

How many crosses are at Hill of Crosses

There are over 200,000 crosses that have been brought to this tiny, sacred hill. Visitors continue to leave crosses at the site to pay homage to their loved ones or to make a plea. Therefore, the number of crosses is constantly increasing until today.

There are over 200,000 crosses at the Hill of Crosses

The number of crosses continues to increase until today as visitors bring new ones from all around the world

Entrance fee

There is no admission fee to enter the Hill of Crosses as it is an open space.

How to get to Hill of Crosses

The Hill of Crosses is located approximately 12 kilometres outside of Šiauliai. Šiauliai is easily accessible from Vilnius by train and bus, or Riga and Kaunas by bus.

Contact Information

Address: Jurgaičiai 81439, Lithuania

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

Contact number: +370 41 370860

A visit to the Hill of Crosses is a must whenever you are in Lithuania. Here, you can experience the indescribably spooky yet magical feeling of being surrounded by thousands of crosses with thousands of stories that will definitely give you something to think about. This hill is a place of “hope, peace, love and sacrifice" - and it definitely lives up to its claims.

Don't forget to share your travel & dining moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Happy travelling!

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Malaysia Travel

Batu Caves at Gombak, Selangor

Malaysia's renowned Batu Caves is one of the most important Hindu holy sites outside of India. It is a must-see while you are in Kuala Lumpur. There are three primary attractions here, including the Temple Cave, Cave Villa, and Ramayana Cave. The Temple Cave, also known as the Cathedral Cave, is devoted to Lord Murugan - the Hindu God of War.

Batu Caves at Gombak, Selangor

History of Batu Caves Temple

Batu Caves is a limestone hill in Selangor featuring three large caves and several colourful cave temples. Experts estimated that the limestone that formed the caverns is approximately 400 million years old. In the past, the Orang Asli or the indigenous people used the caves as dwelling quarters and refuges.

When biologist William Temple Hornaday wrote about the caverns in 1878, they immediately became popular. K. Thamboosamy Pillai, an Indian trader, was captivated by the grandeur of the cave and built Batu Caves' first cave temple in 1890. This very temple is now one of the most prominent Tamil temples outside of India, hosting large-scale Thaipusam festivities on an annual basis.

K. Thamboosamy Pillai was an Indian trader who constructed the first temple cave in Batu Caves.

Batu Caves Murugan Statue

The first thing you see as you approach the caverns is a towering golden statue of Lord Murugan. Erected in 2006, it is the world's largest monument devoted to a deity which matches the height of the 272 steps leading to the cave openings. As you make your way up the flight of stairs, you will be greeted by a troop of fearless monkeys which are inhabitants of the area. Remember to keep an eye on your valuables to prevent the monkeys from snatching them. If you wish to catch your breath, there are resting spots along the way that provide beautiful views of the surrounding suburbs.

The golden and majestic Batu Caves Murugan statue

Inside Batu Caves Temple

Three major caves are located within the jagged limestone hills of Batu Caves.

Temple Cave is the largest and most popular, with a ceiling over 300 feet high. Inside the illuminated cave, you'll discover Hindu shrines and beautiful renditions of tales. Dark Cave is the wildest of the three, which entrance is located right under Temple Cave. The 6,500-foot subterranean section has stunning limestone formations and is home to several cave critters, including the endangered Trapdoor Spiders.

The Dark Cave can only be explored by pre-booking a spelunking tour. The trips need a reasonable degree of physical fitness because crawling is involved. Please be reminded to bring an extra set of clothes. Lastly, the Cave Villa features Hindu carvings and wall paintings depicting Lord Murugan and other Hindu deities.

Beautiful caves within the Batu Caves limestone hills

The colourful cave temple found inside Batu Caves

Kumbhakarna - a giant sleeping god statue in the Ramayana Cave

Depictions of Hindu deities found within Batu Caves

Inside the Batu Caves temple in Gombak, Selangor

How Many Steps in Batu Caves

At first glance, it looks almost impossible to make it to the top with the seemingly endless stair. You will be surprised to know that there is only a total of 272 steps.

There are a total of 272 steps in Batu Caves

Batu Caves Entrance Fee

Admission fee is free for the main temple which is the Temple Cave or also known as the Cathedral Cave. However, the entrance fees for Malaysians and non-Malaysians to the Cave Villa are priced at RM7 and RM15 respectively. For the Ramayana Cave – the admission fee is only RM5, regardless of nationality.

Tips for Visitors

Batu Caves is often teeming with a sea of tourists! Please keep in mind that although this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Malaysia, it is a religious site and place of worship. Please dress appropriately such as long pants to cover your legs. Additionally, pick clothes and footwear that are comfortable enough for you to climb the stairs.

Opening Hours

Batu Caves is open every day from 6.30am–8.30pm

Management Office Contact Number

You may contact them at +603-6189 6284

Address: Batu Caves 68100 Gombak, Selangor.

Batu Caves remains as Malaysia's top attraction for many years now. Most of the visitors are either Hindu devotees who come to pray and perform rituals, or curious tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of the sacred Hindu way of life. See with your own eyes the beauty of this temple and the surrounding caves at Batu Caves!

Don't forget to share your travel & dining moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Happy travelling!

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Malaysia Travel

Best Things to Do in Batu Niah, Sarawak

Tuesday, June 7, 2022

Batu Niah is a small town located about 3 kilometres from the world-famous Niah Cave with a population of under 1,900 people. It is a common stopover for visitors who are on the way to the Niah National Park in Sarawak, Malaysia. Listed below are the top attractions in Batu Niah to help you plan your journey.

Best Things to Do in Batu Niah, Sarawak

Visit the Niah National Park

Niah National Park allows visitors to roam freely within the caves and hiring a tour guide is not mandatory. There are two well-marked wooden walkways here, which are the Batu Kasut Trail and Madu Trail. The first optional stop at the Niah National Park is the Archaeological Museum that tells the history of the Niah Cave and its former inhabitants.

Visit the Niah National Park in Batu Niah, Sarawak

The beauty of Batu Niah is raw and pristine, making it an unforgettable destination for city dwellers.

Explore Gua Niah

The trail begins at the Traders Cave or ‘Gua Dagang’ where there are wooden structures resembling scaffolding. These are the actual remains of the temporary workplace of bird's nest collectors during the harvesting season.

Next, you will arrive at the Great Cave, which has an enormous entrance measuring 60 metres high and over 250 metres wide. At the back of the Great Cave, there is a passage leading to an area called ‘Padang’, which connects to another popular cave. Known as the Painted Cave, it showcases cave wall paintings estimated to be older than 1,200 years old formed during the Iron Age.

Another main highlight at the Niah Cave is the remnants of “death ships” or boat-shaped coffins which were Palaeolithic and Neolithic burial chambers. As with most caving activities, you will also get to marvel at the various limestone outcrops, boulders, stalactites, stalagmites and its living creatures such as spiders, bats and gecko lizards.

For lucky visitors leaving the Niah Cave around sunset, you may experience an event known as the “changing of the guards”. There will be two huge black clouds intermingling at the cave ceilings as hundreds of thousands of swiftlets return to their nests while equal numbers of hundreds of thousands of bats exit the cave. And as the night approaches, several luminous fungi will start to shed their lights. It will take approximately 5 hours to complete your tour here.

Explore the historical Gua Niah in Batu Niah, Sarawak

Book a Homestay

Affordable but basic accommodation options such as chalets and hostels are available. Those who are looking to understand the local culture better can opt for a dedicated homestay program at the Iban Longhouse Village of Rumah Patrick Libau. It is only a short 15-minute walk away from the magnificent Niah Caves.

Book a homestay at the Iban Longhouse Village in Batu Niah, Sarawak

Drink Bird's Nest Soup

Batu Niah town greets its visitors with unique and rare offerings such as bird's nest soup. Depending on the grades, bird's nest soup can be very expensive. The market price for this exotic dish ranges between RM3,500 to RM5,000 per kilogram. These soups are prepared in multiple ways and either be served warm and fresh, or chilled and bottled! Other interesting local products from Batu Niah are rattan handicrafts and also organic fertilisers made from bat poops known as “guano”.

Drink the local bird's nest soup when visiting Batu Niah, Sarawak

Try the Exotic Ikan Betutu

Apart from bird's nest soup, another expensive dish in Batu Niah is the Ikan Betutu or Marble Goby fish. The local Chinese community of Cantonese origins call this the Soon Hock fish. This type of fish is seasonal and is loved for its decadent and juicy white flesh. It is also said to have healing properties when consumed. The fish is rather rugged and has almost no bones. The most common way to prepare this fish in Batu Niah is by steaming it with garlic paste and eaten with white rice.

Try the exotic Ikan Betutu at Batu Niah, Sarawak

You can also try other kinds of exotic fishes in Batu Niah, such as hammerhead sharks.

Pray at Tua Pek Kong Temple

Tua Pek Kong is known as the God of Prosperity among the Chinese community around the world. Surprisingly, there is a temple dedicated to this deity in almost every town in the state of Sarawak. While traveling through Batu Niah, you will definitely come across this vibrant and beautiful temple located just a stone's throw away from the river.

Visit the Tua Pek Kong Temple at Batu Niah, Sarawak

Taste the Local Sarawakian Dishes

Most of the dishes found across Batu Niah is influenced by Chinese-style cooking. There are many must-try dishes here, including freshwater prawns which are delicious when served in the local Big Head Prawn Laksa. This dish is similar to Sarawak Laksa, but with gigantic freshwater prawns replacing the typical boiled shrimps. Another famous prawn dish in Batu Niah is the Coconut Tom Yum Prawn. This tom yum dish is cooked with fresh prawns and coconut water in a coconut shell.

Other simple and enjoyable comfort food loved by the locals is the Kampua Mee. Unlike Kolok Mee, the noodles used are straighter and less springy. This dry-style noodle dish is served with soy sauce, slices of meat and wanton. Fun fact: In Sarawak, Kampua Mee is served on plates while Kolok Mee is usually served in bowls.

These huge freshwater prawns are a hit in Batu Niah

Traditional Kampua Mee in Batu Niah, Sarawak

Don't forget to share your travel & dining moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Happy travelling!

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Malaysia Muslim-Friendly Travel

5 Best Local Markets in Miri, Sarawak

Friday, June 3, 2022

The most authentic way to learn about a new culture is by visiting the local markets. It is a wholesome and eye-opening experience especially when it is your first time travelling to that particular region. When travelling to Miri, which is a coastal city in Sarawak located near the border of Brunei Darussalam, there are 5 popular local markets that you must drop by!

5 Best Local Markets in Miri, Sarawak

Pasar Malam Saberkas

You can easily spot the lively Saberkas Night Market from Taman Bulatan Miri and Boulevard Commercial Centre in Pujut. Besides shopping for beautiful handmade handicrafts, clothing, and the freshest produce, you can also discover an incredible range of local delicacies unique to this region only, such as Nasi Lemak, grilled chicken wings, tender and juicy satay, and colourful layer cakes.

Address: Saberkas Commercial Centre, 98000 Miri, Sarawak.

Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 4pm–9.30pm. Closed on Mondays.

Contact number: +6012-845 4115

Local delicacies such as Kek Lapis Sarawak can be found at Pasar Malam Saberkas

Tamu Khas

At Tamu Khas, you will be able to gain a glimpse into the authentic way of life of the local communities in Miri. This colourful native and specialty market sells mostly local ethnic products, where you can discover many exotic fruits and vegetables which are grown in the dense Bornean jungles. Tamu Khas is located exactly behind the Tamu Muhibbah main market.

Address: Tamu Muhibbah, Jalan Padang, 98000 Miri, Sarawak.

Opening hours: 8am–7pm

Tamu Khas sells unique native products including these beautiful and traditional handwoven baskets.

Tamu Kedayan

This local farmer's market can be found within the vicinity of the expansive Tamu Muhibbah. Tamu Kedayan is a wet market where you can find fresh produce, local fruits and vegetables. Additionally, you can also buy unique region-defining products such as the highly-valued Bario rice, which is harvested by the natives in the remote highlands of northeast Sarawak.

Address: Tamu Muhibbah, Jalan Padang, 98000 Miri, Sarawak.

Opening hours: 6am–6pm

At Tamu Muhibbah, you can buy Bario rice which is cultivated by hand by the Kelabit tribe without the use of pesticides or herbicides

Tamu Muhibbah

You will be surprised by what you can find at Tamu Muhibbah. Some of the rare and well-beloved items that you can bring home as souvenirs include Bario rice, raw hill salt, fermented shrimp paste also known as belacan, fermented small shrimps also known as cencaluk, sago, and gula apong. There are also wild edible ferns such as paku and midin, edible soft shoots such as umbut and bamboo shoots, tapioca shoots (pucuk ubi), and other distinctive wild plants.

Fun fact: You can also order freshly cooked food from Tamu Muhibbah through the Foodpanda app!

Address: Tamu Muhibbah, Jalan Padang, 98000 Miri, Sarawak.

Opening hours: 6am–6pm

Tamu Muhibbah sells exotic and distinctive produce harvested from the jungles of Borneo

Pasar Besar Krokop

Pasar Besar Krokop is undoubtedly the locals’ favourite wet market in Miri. You can literally find almost everything under one roof. Discover the freshest wild-caught seafood, fresh flowers, wide varieties of vegetables, and all sorts of meats such as chicken, beef, and pork. It is also said that the prices are reasonable and affordable. We must advise you to come as early as 5 in the morning if you wish to get the freshest produce from this market!

Address: Jalan Krokop Utama, 98000 Miri, Sarawak.

Opening hours: 6.00am – 6.30pm

Contact number: +6017-274 1804

Pasar Besar Krokop in Miri, Sarawak

It is certainly worth visiting these local markets especially if you are interested to get a taste of the local way of life. At these lively tamus, you’ll get to see how the communities start their day by shopping for the freshest produce early in the morning while catching up with old friends. Be prepared to be astonished by what these amazing yet humble destinations can offer you!

Don't forget to share your travel & dining moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Happy travelling!

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Brunei Mosques Muslim-Friendly

Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Brunei

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

Brunei Darussalam regained complete independence on January 1, 1984, with the Sultan taking office as the Prime Minister, Finance Minister, and Home Affairs Minister. In other words, his word is law. The sultanate has a rich cultural past and is famous for its magnificent rainforest filled with colourful flora and wildlife. Here, you can also find several of the world's most incredible mosques.

Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Brunei

Islam in Brunei

Brunei is an Islamic country with majority of the population being Sunnis of Malay origin. In 1959, with the adoption of the constitution, Islam became the country’s official religion. As for the implementation of the Syariah Law, Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah declared that the first phase of the Syariah Penal Code Law will be enforced in the country beginning May 1st in 2014.

Islam has long played an important part in Brunei's socio-political environment. It provides legitimacy and authority to the country's absolute monarch and helps to sustain allegiance to both the governing system and the hierarchical structure of the Bruneian society.

The majestic Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Brunei Darussalam

History of Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

Given that Brunei is an Islamic country, it is not shocking to see a beautiful mosque established for the purpose of worship and performing good deeds. Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah is a mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. It is one of two state mosques in Brunei Darussalam, with the other being Masjid Omar Ali Saifuddien. The construction of this majestic structure began in 1988 and was completed in 1994.

Brunei's Largest Mosque

The Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is the largest mosque in Brunei. It has the capacity to accommodate 5,000 worshipers at one time. There are 29 golden domes as well as four 58-meter-tall or 190-foot minarets. It costed around USD 8 million to build this expansive and beautifully architected mosque.

There are 29 golden domes built at Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

Four majestic 58-meter-tall minarets elevate the mosque's structure

The Sultan's very own personal escalator and private entrance to the mosque

Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah interior

The lavish interior of Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

The interior is a combination of middle eastern influences, modern aesthetic and local accents

Fountain of Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

This beautifully designed water fountain can be found in front of the entrance that is provided exclusively for his Royal Highness, ministers, and VIPs in Brunei Darussalam. It makes an ideal spot for photography.

Fountain of Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

The mosque is designed with gardens and beautiful fountains

Visitor's Guide & Tips

If you are in Brunei Darussalam and wish to visit this holy place, you are most welcome to do so. There’s no need to worry as there is no entrance fee that you need to pay to enter the mosque. However, there are a few rules that you must oblige before you step inside the mosque such as their visiting hours, visitors must report to security if you wish to tour inside the building, visitors are not allowed to enter the female prayer hall, visitors must take off their shoes, visitors must switch off their phone or make sure it is on silent, and lastly, visitors must wear a special robe before you go inside the mosque. As for the robe, it is provided for free!

It is allowed to take photos outside the building but once you enter the mosque, it is prohibited to take photos or videos hence why there are very limited images of the inside of this magnificent mosque you can find online.

How to Get to Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

The mosque is relatively easy to get to as it is located in the heart of Bandar Seri Begawan city at Kampong Kiarong. If you are going by public transportation, the closest stop to the Jame'Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque is the Kiulap Commercial station in Gadong.

Contact Information

Address: Simpang 127, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.

Contact number: +6732238741/2

Opening hours: 8am–12pm and 2pm–3pm (Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday), 10:30am–12pm and 2pm–3pm (Sunday). Closed on Thursday and Friday.

Don't forget to share your travel & dining moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Happy travelling!

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Malaysia Travel

Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre, Pahang

Monday, May 23, 2022

Do you know that elephants are extremely intelligent creatures with complex emotions, sentiments, compassion, and self-awareness? Elephants are an important species in the ecosystems. Their large footprints gather water when it rains to serve as waterholes for smaller animals. When elephants eat, they also break up grass and shrubs so new plants can develop, while dispersing seeds through their faeces as they walk. We couldn’t imagine how the ecosystem would be without these amazing beings!

In Malaysia, you don’t have to travel to another country to get up close with these beautiful gentle creatures. Here in Kuala Gandah, you can explore the National Elephant Conservation Centre. Listed below are several fun activities that you should look forward to when you are there!

Visiting the Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre, Pahang

Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre, Pahang

Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary Activities

It is important to note that elephant rides are not available here. Visitors are advised to understand the purpose of this sanctuary, which is to educate and not to entertain. Therefore, rides are prohibited as a way to protect the elephants.

There are a few things that you should keep in mind before planning a trip to Kuala Gandah. Firstly, make sure to wear a cap and bring along a bottle of water with you as the mid-afternoon sun can get hot and unforgiving. Bring along extra clothes and a towel if you plan to participate in the elephant bathing activity. We also suggest that you bring your own snacks and water. There is a small stall selling refreshments but the choices are limited so do pack some in advance!

You can get up close and personal with the elephants at the Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Centre

Hand-feed the Elephants

Enjoy the experience of feeding the elephants at this large sanctuary. You can feed them directly through the mouth or by letting the elephants playfully curl their trunks around the sugarcane. There is a stall selling these treats by the bundle for only RM3. This is definitely going to be a fun activity to do with your family!

You can buy sugarcane to feed the elephants at the sanctuary

Let the elephants playfully curl their trunks around the fruits as you feed them

Bathing with Elephants

You will get a chance to bathe the elephants under the careful supervision of the caregivers. There is a schedule for bathing activities, which are available from Monday to Thursday only. It is advisable for you to bring extra clothes and a towel if you’re planning to jump into the river to give the baby and adult elephants a long, good scrub!

Elephant bathing at the Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Centre

Follow the sign to find your way to the elephant bathing area by the river.

Visit the Elephant Museum

At the Kuala Gandah National Elephant Conservation Centre, you can find a small museum which allows you to learn more about this endangered animal and their history in the country. There are also replicas of elephant bones and skulls being displayed in the museum.

After visiting the museum, make your way to the baby elephant paddock to say hi to this cutie!

Watch the Video Show

If it’s too hot outside, you can make yourself comfortable in the air-conditioned room while watching a documentary on elephants. The video sheds light on their dwindling habitats and the involvement of the Trans-location Team in safeguarding the survival of this threatened species. The showing duration is around 25 minutes.

Visitor's Timetable

Please note that all river activities are subject to the water level for safety purposes.

Time	Location	Activities
10.30am-11.00am	River (Wooden bridge)	Bathing adult elephants in the river
10.30am-4.00pm	Exercise yard	Observe elephants in grazing area
10.30am-4.45pm	Activities area	Observe and hand-feed baby elephants
11.00am-11.30am	River (Activities area)	Bathing baby elephants in the river
11.30am-12.00pm (Except Friday-Sunday and Public Holiday)	River (Wooden bridge)	Bathing adult elephants in the river
2.15pm-2.45pm / 3.00pm-3.30pm (Friday)	River (Activities area)	Bathing adult elephants in the river

Ticket Prices & Packages

As for the entrance fee, it is only RM10 for adults and RM5 for children. As for the activities inside the sanctuary, no fees will be charged – you may enjoy the fun as much as you want!

kuala gandah elephant sanctuary packages

You will be required to sign this indemnity letter before entering the conservation centre

How to Get to Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre

You can arrive at Kuala Gandah, Lanchang in the state of Pahang from Kuala Lumpur by car, which will take approximately 2 hours using the East Coast Expressway or Lebuh Raya Pantai Timur.

Contact Information

Address: National Elephant Conservation Centre, Kuala Gandah, 28500, Lanchang, Pahang.

Opening hours: 10.30am - 4.15pm (Monday to Sunday)

Contact number: +6012-322 3934

There are so many fun activities for everyone at the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary. Which one is your favourite? Comment below and let us know!

Don't forget to share your travel & dining moments with us on Instagram by tagging @rollinggrace or #RollingGrace. Happy travelling!

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Galata Tower in Istanbul, Turkey

History of Galata Tower

Facts & what to expect

Things to do at Galata Tower

Entrance fees

Nearby attractions to visit

How to get there to Galata Tower

Contact information

Hill of Crosses in Lithuania

History of Hill of Crosses

What to see and expect

How many crosses are at Hill of Crosses

Entrance fee

How to get to Hill of Crosses

Contact Information

Batu Caves at Gombak, Selangor

History of Batu Caves Temple

Batu Caves Murugan Statue

Inside Batu Caves Temple

How Many Steps in Batu Caves

Batu Caves Entrance Fee

Tips for Visitors

Opening Hours

Management Office Contact Number

Best Things to Do in Batu Niah, Sarawak

Visit the Niah National Park

Explore Gua Niah

Book a Homestay

Drink Bird's Nest Soup

Try the Exotic Ikan Betutu

Pray at Tua Pek Kong Temple

Taste the Local Sarawakian Dishes

5 Best Local Markets in Miri, Sarawak

Pasar Malam Saberkas

Tamu Khas

Tamu Kedayan

Tamu Muhibbah

Pasar Besar Krokop

Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, Brunei

Islam in Brunei

History of Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

Brunei's Largest Mosque

Fountain of Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

Visitor's Guide & Tips

How to Get to Masjid Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah

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Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre, Pahang

Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary Activities

Hand-feed the Elephants

Bathing with Elephants

Visit the Elephant Museum

Watch the Video Show

Visitor's Timetable

Ticket Prices & Packages

How to Get to Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre

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