Animal Kingdom
The Indian custom of turning palaces and temples back over
to nature for the good of Earth’s creatures is symbolized
in the Maharajah Jungle Trek. In this walking tour, the hunting lodge and palace
ruins serve as homes to the majestic tigers that have become
the royal family of this habitat now.The rainforest-like surroundings are reminiscent
of those found in Nepal, India, Thailand and Indonesia,
and are home to other fascinating creatures.
As your journey through the Royal Forest begins,
be sure to stop at one of the stands near the entrance
and pick up a brochure that describes the wildlife
found here and some viewing tips as well. Amidst the rocky pit area with a rushing
waterfall, you can spot the world’s largest lizard,
the Komodo Dragon.
Three separate areas are provided for your viewing
pleasure. Further
along the path, the large black and white creature
you’ll see that is a relative to both the horse
and rhinoceros, is the Malayan Tapir.The brightly painted hut that resembles an
Indonesian community hall serves as the viewing
and educational resource hut of the Bat Cliffs. Here, you’ll find 32 bats of the Rodrigues
Fruit and Malayan Flying Fox species. Guests may be surprised to find that some
of the viewing areas are without glass panes or
wire coverings.There is nothing to fear however, as some
of these bats have a 6-foot wingspan and would not
be able to enter the 14-inch window frame.Magnificent Asian Tigers can be seen from
three separate viewing areas.
TIP:Don’t just stop at the first viewing platform.If it is crowded, move onto the second or
third areas, the view may be better.
Visitors will marvel at the quiet strength of these
stealthy creatures.Their playful nature can be seen as they
play with the large ball in the water.
TIP:The tigers are most active early in the mornings
In the grazing area behind the tigers, you’ll find
Blackbuck and Elds Deer.The inner walls of the viewing areas serve
as murals that pay homage to the animals within.As you saunter further down the path, you’ll
pass through a domed Mughal-style mausoleum known
as the “Red Pavilion”. Amidst the great hall ruins on the other
side, you’ll find exotic birds of Asian descent,
some of who are tree dwellers, while others may
be ground or mud dwellers. Relax on the marble benches and see Palawan
peacock pheasants, white-rumped shamas, fruit doves,
Indian rollers, masked plovers and large King Parrots,
a few of the 50 species found here.
The wildlife may be the main attraction here, but
be sure to take the time to appreciate the wondrous
surroundings. As
you stroll the paths through the crumbling ruins,
enjoy the magnificent murals that grace the walls.These murals, some trimmed in gold, depict
the legends of past royal hunts.While these are made to look old, look closely
at the hunter with the turban.His earring is actually a Hidden Mickey! Pass through the formal herb garden, where
the warm scents of jasmine and honeysuckle assail
your senses.See the bright flashes of cloth as the hanging
pennants flap in the breeze.These represent the religious cultures of
northern Asia and each may be symbolic of prayers
to the gods.The half-mile long path is lined with costumed
Cast Members at the wildlife viewing areas to answer
any questions you may have.
The Maharajah Jungle Trek pathways are wheelchair
accessible.
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