The 19th Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival in the tourist city of Sauraha concluded today with special rituals honoring elephants and a forest-style feast for the majestic animals. Over the past two days, the festival attracted a large number of visitors, resulting in near-full occupancy at hotels and bustling activity throughout the tourist area.
Throughout the festival, visitors enjoyed a variety of entertaining activities, including the Elephant Beauty Contest, Boat Race Competitions, and Penalty Shootouts. To cater to the interest of both domestic and international tourists, a glimpse of the world-famous elephant polo was also showcased on Saturday at Baghmara Chowk. According to festival coordinator Gunaraj Thapaliya, limited polo equipment was used to provide spectators with a preview of the game. “Although the full game could not be played, the demonstration greatly excited the audience and tourists,” he noted.
Elephant Worship and Special Forest Feast
On the festival’s final day, elephants were ceremoniously worshiped, with organizers treating them as sacred beings. A special forest feast in a buffet-style format was organized for the elephants, featuring foods they enjoy, allowing them to eat as much as they wished. Thapaliya explained, “This feast brings joy to the elephants, making them feel comfortable and happy.”
Responding to concerns about potential mistreatment of elephants, Thapaliya emphasized that elephants are sensitive creatures capable of feeling both happiness and pain. He clarified, “We understand very well how elephants experience discomfort and joy. No activities during the festival have caused any suffering to the animals.”
Festival’s Organizers and Participation
The festival, held at Baghmara Chowk in Sauraha, was organized by Ratnanagar Municipality as a patron and co-organized by the United Elephant Operation Cooperative Limited. Approximately 80 elephants participated in various events, representing both government and private sector initiatives. The festival is held annually during this period, aiming to promote tourism, highlight local culture, and provide welfare-oriented activities for elephants.
Organizers expressed that the festival not only enhances tourist engagement in Chitwan but also emphasizes the conservation and welfare of elephants. Visitors had the opportunity to observe elephants in a celebratory environment, participate in cultural programs, and enjoy entertainment activities that showcase the unique heritage of the region.
Promoting Tourism and Conservation Awareness
The Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival continues to serve as a vital platform for promoting sustainable tourism in Chitwan National Park. By combining entertainment with awareness of human-elephant coexistence, the festival encourages both tourists and locals to appreciate the ecological and cultural significance of elephants.
With this year’s successful conclusion, the organizers have reiterated their commitment to ensuring that future festivals maintain a balance between tourist engagement and the welfare of the elephants, strengthening Chitwan’s reputation as a responsible and attractive tourist destination.
