Sauraha Hosts 18th Elephant Festival

Nestled in Sauraha, Chitwan, Nepal, the 18th Elephant and Tourism Festival is captivating both local and international visitors. Hosted at the Baghmara Intermediate Community Forest near the renowned Chitwan National Park, this five-day event aligns with New Year and Christmas celebrations. The festival concludes on December 30, serving as a vital driver for tourism in the region with its diverse and unique attractions.

Key Highlights

Location and Timing

• Held in Sauraha, Chitwan, near Chitwan National Park.
• Aligns with English New Year and Christmas celebrations.
• Runs for five days, concluding on December 30.

Major Attractions

Elephant Centric Events

• Elephant parades, beauty contests, and football competitions.
• Over 80 elephants participating, including private and government-owned.
• Notable elephants like Champakali, Basnatikali, and Ramkali featured in penalty shootouts.
• Elephant picnics allowing visitors to bond and feed elephants.

Cultural Activities

• Performances showcasing traditional costumes and music.
• Enriches visitors’ cultural understanding of Nepal.

Animal Welfare Initiatives

• Elephant polo removed to address animal rights concerns.
• Elephants enjoy frequent breaks, including 7-minute sugarcane snacks every 5 minutes of activity.
• Adheres to welfare guidelines from the Human Rights Commission.

Impact on Tourism

• Local hotels offering discounts on accommodation and dining.
• Hotel occupancy rates increased from 40% to 65% during the festival.

Memorable Experiences

• A blend of wildlife interaction and cultural festivities.
• Attracts tourists seeking unique and enriching travel experiences.