Tourism Info Nepal

18th Elephant and Tourism Festival Kicks Off in Sauraha, Chitwan

18th Elephant and Tourism Festival Kicks Off in Sauraha, Chitwan

Sauraha, Chitwan, has come alive with the 18th Elephant and Tourism Festival, which commenced today. Organized by the Sauraha Regional Hotel Association, the festival celebrates the English New Year and Christmas, aiming to boost tourism in the region.

The five-day event, running until December 30, is being held at the Baghmara Intermediate Community Forest grounds. This annual celebration seeks to attract both domestic and international visitors to Sauraha, with local hotels anticipating a significant rise in occupancy rates from the current 40% to a projected 60-65% during the festival. Participating hotels have also announced a 10% discount on food and lodging to encourage more travelers.

While last year’s festival was hosted near the Chitrasari Bridge, this year’s venue at the Baghmara grounds promises an exciting lineup of activities. Key attractions include elephant grooming competitions, elephant banquets, football penalty contests, musical walks, and health check-up camps for elephants. Additionally, the festival will feature municipal-level boat competitions, B2B seminars with domestic and foreign travel agencies, and discussions on Chitwan’s tourism potential.

Cultural elements such as tableau performances showcasing local costumes, art, and culture, along with vibrant dances by national and local artists, add to the festival’s appeal.

With over 80 elephants participating, including 60 privately owned elephants in Sauraha, the event underscores the unique bond between the community and these majestic animals. The festival continues to be a testament to Chitwan’s rich cultural heritage and its growing potential as a premier tourism destination.

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