The Kerala Department of Tourism has now received a Golden Elephant Protection Award from PETA India for launching a mechanical elephant safari. This initiative eliminates the need to use live animals for tourist rides at the Thumboormozhi Butterfly Park. Here’s how you can take a ride on this adorable mechanical elephant!
Mechanical Elephant Safari In Kerala Recognised By PETA
The Thumboormozhi Butterfly Park is a popular destination located in the Thrissur district of Kerala. Instead of using live animals for safari, the park uses a mechanical elephant named ‘Thumboormozhi Ganapathi’ for tourist activities. According to a report by Onmanorama, this initiative has won the Kerala Department of Tourism a PETA Golden Elephant Protection Award. How cool is that?
This mechanical elephant is eight feet tall and can flap its ears and raise its trunk. The elephant ride was introduced around a month ago and is already a hit with tourists. Riders can climb onto the elephant using a ladder. The ride also has a driver and another staff member who help tourists get on it.
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Safe, Cruelty-Free & A Unique Experience
According to Onmanorama, the safari ride on this mechanical elephant involves taking two rounds of the Thumboormozhi garden. However, the duration can be extended as per the rider’s choice. The best part? This mechanical elephant can also produce elephant sounds through speakers fixed on the ride. This makes the whole experience feel real. For many tourists, the ride is appealing because it is safe and does not involve any cruelty towards animals.
If you are visiting Kerala anytime soon, you can book the safari ride from the park’s ticket counter between 9 am and 5 pm. One ride lasts around 10 minutes. Visitors can enjoy views of the beautiful park while sitting on this adorable mechanical elephant. At one time, around four to five people were allowed on it. According to Onmanorama, the ticket price for children is ₹120 and for adults it is ₹150.
The Thumboormozhi Butterfly Park is located around 12 km from the Athirappilly Waterfalls in Kerala’s Thrissur district. So, if you are planning a trip to Kerala, we definitely suggest you do not miss this PETA-approved elephant safari.
Congratulations to Kerala for receiving a PETA award for this amazing initiative!
Cover Image Courtesy: PETA India/ Website and Kerala Tourism/ Website
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Where is Thumboormozhi Butterfly Park?
Thumboormozhi Butterfly Park is located in the Thrissur district of Kerala.
Why did Kerala receive a PETA award?
Kerala recently received a PETA award for launching a mechanical elephant safari instead of using real elephants in its Thumboormozhi Butterfly Park.
Which is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is during the months of October to March, when the weather is pleasant, cool, and perfect for sightseeing, visiting the beach, and more.