While in Thailand this past November, I traveled to Kanchanaburi, site of the historical Bridge over River Kwai, a famous battle site during WWII and gateway to Erawan National Park, one of Thailand’s most popular parks. A lady friend from Kanchanaburi province accompanied me for the hike up to the top of Erawan Falls, which consists of 7 tiers. While she stopped at the 6th tier, Ling Yai decided to continue to the very top. At the 7th tier, a nice surprise awaited me - I was greeted by a welcoming committee of common lings - a family of long tail macaques monkeys (lings) were resting in the lower levels of canopy, apparently waiting for to pay homage to their master. There was Papasan and Mamasan Ling along with at least 5 - 6 juvenile and baby lings.
Hanumann, ‘the boss of all the monkeys” was absolutely delighted to be welcomed by some of his charges. They gave ‘Ling Yai” a rousing reception; to commemorate the meeting, I took a number of pictures of ‘my followers” with my two digital cameras. Apparently, the camera’s built-in flash made Papasan Ling snap, as he hopped down from the trees and bared his teeth seemingly ready to attack Hanumann. Startled by his sudden insubordination, I tumbled over on the rocks with both cameras around my neck scraping my leg. Getting up quickly like a cat, I gave Papasan Ling a stern lecture. Staring at him eye to eye, I said- ’ You Ling, I Hanumann, Ling Yai, your master; you have disrespected me with your attack. You keep your distance from the great one”. Apparently, Papasan Ling understood, as he backed away nodding his head, saying Solly Sir, Solly Sir. As I started my hike down the falls, I nodded my head in return, telling Papasan ling that Hanumann accepted his apologies.