Animal Kingdom - Asia
Asia
Asia Overview
The landscape, culture, history, creatures and architecture of some of Asia’s most exotic and intriguing countries are found in Animal Kingdom’s newest land. Lush vegetation, crumbling ruins and mysterious temples were borrowed from countries such as Nepal, Mongolia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand and India, to form the cultural melting pot that is the mythical kingdom of Anandapur.Disney used many nations that were not culturally specific, as opposed to one actual country, in the birth of Anandapur, which means “place of all delights.” According to the “Disney history” of Anadapur, it was established in 1544 as a royal hunting reserve. A village evolved from this base and thrived, while the reserve has found itself in a state of ruin and decay. The “current” royal family converted the crumbling reserve into its current state as a conservation area.
As you explore this enchanting land, you can hear the clack
of the bamboo as the wind rattles through the forest. See the Tiger Tree, decorated with scarves, garlands
and bells as a tribute to the spirits for wishes and prayers
that have been granted. The cement walkways are imprinted with leaves and
palm fronds and are flanked by bicycles, rickshaws and other
interesting transportation options. With the two 50-foot monument pillars in the background,
bamboo scaffolding surrounds two structures as part of a
restoration project, and has become home to 2 families of
gibbons. The
Siamangs have strong family bonds and perform their playful
gymnastics to the delight of the entertained audience. The white-cheeked gibbons, whose hoots can be heard
throughout the land, inhabit the second pillar.
Bird lovers will be enchanted by the graceful, soaring birds
in the Feathered Friends in Flight! performances. Visitors to the Kali River Rapids will be enlightened
to the devastating effects that illegal logging operations
are having on the rainforest, as they travel the churning
waters of the rapids. Meander along the pathways of the Maharajah Jungle
Trek and see some of Asia’s most exotic creatures.
Hungry guests can snack on the chicken satay and roasted corn that are available from a roadside stand. The colorful Anandapur Ice Cream truck serves frozen treats in addition to smoothies and floats.On hot days, cold drinks are found at Drinkwallah.
At Mandala Gifts, you’ll find such Asian treasures as stuffed tigers, strings of melodious bells, jewelry, masks and tiger apparel.
The Thirsty River Bar and Trek Snacks is located near Expedition Everest. The storyline goes that this was the home for a popular Sherpa family at the base camp of Everest climbers, so the walls are covered with travelers' mementos. A stop at this bar is considered tradition for climbers returning from an expedition.
