Chiang Mai’s Tame Tiger ‘Nong Eva’ Becomes New Star Attraction.

Chiang Mai: Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health, extended an invitation for tourists to visit Chiang Mai, highlighting the opportunity to meet 'Nong Eva', a tame golden tiger, and her trainer, Ms. Patchara Pipatwongchai, affectionately known as 'Nong Bow'. This invitation follows his recent visit to the 'Magic of Chiang Mai, City of Beautiful Flowers' event, which showcases a variety of flowers during the winter festival at the 82nd Anniversary Chalermprakiat Park. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Somsak expressed his admiration for the new generation's ability to tame wild animals, specifically pointing out Nong Eva's unique and friendly demeanor, which contrasts with the typical perception of tigers as fierce carnivores. The event at Chiang Mai Night Safari allows tourists to view and feed animals, with Nong Eva emerging as a new favorite among visitors. Her trainer, Ms. Patchara, has been praised for her skills in transforming the tiger into a friendly and approachable animal, breaking trad itional stereotypes associated with jungle predators. Mr. Somsak also highlighted the upcoming long holiday as an ideal time to visit Chiang Mai, not only to enjoy the flower festival and meet Nong Eva but also to experience the region's culinary delights and warm hospitality. Additionally, the Lanna Health Tourism Fair, which Mr. Somsak opened, offers a range of wellness services for tourists. He assured that a trip to Chiang Mai would be an enjoyable experience, combining natural beauty, unique attractions, and leisure opportunities.