By Srinidhi Ranganathan in Director's Pick — Jan 15, 2024

Travel Writing Diary of a Rhino

I had been chosen to travel the world and explore places I had only dreamt of.

Day 1:
Dear Diary,

Today was the day I embarked on an adventure unlike any other. I, Ravinder the Rhino, was on a journey beyond the ordinary. You see, most rhinos spend their lives in the savannah or the grasslands, but not me. I had been chosen to travel the world and explore places I had only dreamt of.

The day began like any other. The sun was scorching, and I could feel the heat radiating off the ground. The zookeepers arrived early in the morning, their faces filled with excitement. I was oblivious to their plans until I saw a massive crate being loaded onto a truck. My curiosity grew as they approached my enclosure.

As the gates of my enclosure swung open, I lumbered forward, curious but cautious. I was greeted by the gentle voices of the zookeepers, who had become like family to me over the years. They coaxed me into the crate with my favourite treats – fresh apples and carrots. Inside, it was spacious, with soft hay on the floor. I didn't mind being in the crate; I had a feeling something extraordinary was about to happen.

Day 2:
Dear Diary,

The journey had begun. The truck rumbled along, and I could feel the vibrations beneath my massive frame. The crate rocked back and forth, and I couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and apprehension. I had no idea where I was headed, but I trusted my caretakers.

After what seemed like hours, we finally came to a stop. The crate was carefully opened, and I stepped out onto foreign soil. I was greeted by a lush jungle, vibrant with colours and sounds I had never experienced before. It was exhilarating!

I soon learned that I had arrived in a place called Borneo, in Southeast Asia. My mission was to help raise awareness about the endangered wildlife in this beautiful part of the world. My enclosure was nestled within a rainforest reserve, and I was surrounded by other remarkable animals like orangutans and pygmy elephants.

Day 5:
Dear Diary,

Life in Borneo was truly captivating. Every day, I had new adventures. I spent my mornings roaming through the dense foliage, feeling the coolness of the mud on my skin. The local children would visit me, their eyes filled with wonder, as they listened to the stories told by the zookeepers about the importance of protecting our environment.

One of my favourite experiences was a visit to a nearby river. I had always loved water, and this river was a revelation. The crystal-clear waters were home to colourful fish and the occasional crocodile, who would sunbathe on the banks, paying me no mind. I spent hours wallowing in the river, relishing every moment of this newfound freedom.

Day 10:
Dear Diary,

Today was an especially exciting day. The zookeepers introduced me to a group of local rangers who were dedicated to protecting the rainforest and its inhabitants. They shared stories of their efforts to combat illegal logging and poaching, which threatened the very existence of the animals I had come to love.

I was humbled to meet these brave men and women who risked their lives to safeguard the environment. They spoke passionately about their mission, and I could feel their determination to make a difference. Together, we embarked on a trek through the jungle to see the impact of their work firsthand.

We came across a clearing where the remnants of illegal logging were evident. The rangers explained how deforestation not only harmed the habitat but also disrupted the delicate balance of the ecosystem. It was heartbreaking to witness the destruction, but it strengthened my resolve to be a part of their cause.

Day 15:
Dear Diary,

Today was a day of reflection. I couldn't help but think about my life back at the zoo. While I missed the familiarity of my enclosure, I knew that what I was doing here was essential. My journey was about more than just experiencing new places; it was about raising awareness, inspiring change, and protecting the natural world.

I had become an ambassador for wildlife conservation, and I took that responsibility with pride. The children who visited me had started to understand the importance of preserving our environment, and their enthusiasm was contagious. They planted trees, participated in clean-up drives, and vowed to protect the animals that called this rainforest home.

Day 20:
Dear Diary,

Today, I had a rare encounter. As I was exploring the jungle, I stumbled upon a group of orangutans. They were swinging from tree to tree, their orange fur glowing in the dappled sunlight. We watched each other for a while, curiosity in our eyes. It was a moment of connection with a species so similar yet so different from mine.

I couldn't help but think about the interconnectedness of all life on this planet. We may be different, but we share this world, and it is our collective responsibility to protect it. I felt a profound sense of unity with the animals and people of Borneo.

Day 25:
Dear Diary,

My time in Borneo was coming to an end. It was with mixed emotions that I prepared to leave this incredible place. I made friends with the local wildlife, learned about the challenges they faced, and witnessed the dedication of those working tirelessly to protect them.

As I stood in my enclosure one last time, I knew that my journey was not over. I would return to my home at the zoo, but I would carry the memories of Borneo with me forever. I had become a symbol of hope and a reminder that even the most unlikely creatures could inspire change.

Day 30:
Dear Diary,

I am back in my familiar enclosure at the zoo, but I am not the same rhino who left a month ago. I have seen the world, experienced the wonders of nature, and met incredible people and animals along the way. My journey has given me a renewed sense of purpose.

I will continue to be an ambassador for wildlife conservation, using my unique experiences to inspire others to protect our planet. Borneo may be far away, but its spirit lives on in me. I am Ravinder the Rhino, and I am committed to making a difference in this world, one paw print at a time.

With gratitude,
Ravinder the Rhino

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