Each year in late December, the tranquil town of Sauraha in Chitwan comes alive with colour, music and celebration during the Elephant and Tourism Festival—one of Nepal’s most distinctive winter events. In 2025, the 19th edition of the festival was held from 26 to 28 December at the Baghmara Buffer Zone Community Forest grounds, on the edge of Chitwan National Park.
The festival has grown into a major attraction for both domestic and international visitors, combining cultural heritage, conservation awareness and tourism promotion in a single vibrant celebration.
A Festival with a Purpose
The Elephant and Tourism Festival is organised by the Regional Hotel Association Nepal (Chitwan) in collaboration with local authorities and community forest user groups with the aim of strengthening tourism in Sauraha and surrounding areas. The festival plays a vital role in supporting the local hospitality industry during the peak winter season, drawing both domestic and international visitors to Chitwan National Park.
Beyond tourism promotion, the event highlights the deep cultural and historical connection between elephants and Nepali society while also encouraging awareness of wildlife conservation, responsible tourism practices and sustainable community development. Through exhibitions, interaction programmes and conservation messaging, the festival seeks to promote coexistence between people and wildlife and to reinforce Chitwan’s reputation as one of Nepal’s most important eco-tourism destinations.
Opening Ceremony and Activities
The 19th Elephant and Tourism Festival was inaugurated by Bagmati Province Chief Minister Indra Bahadur Baniya, marking the start of three days of celebration in Sauraha. The festival features decorated elephant parades, penalty shoot-out competitions and beauty contests that highlight the bond between elephants and their handlers. Veterinary health camps ensure animal welfare, while cultural dances and music performances enrich the festive atmosphere. The final day includes elephant worship and ceremonial feeding, reflecting Nepal’s cultural traditions.
Boosting Tourism and the Local Economy
The festival plays an important role in stimulating tourism during the winter season. Hotels, lodges and tour operators in Sauraha typically offer special packages and discounts, encouraging higher visitor turnout. Local businesses benefit from increased demand for accommodation, food, transport and guided jungle activities.
Organisers expect the festival period to significantly raise hotel occupancy and overall tourist numbers, helping sustain the regional economy.
Community Participation and Conservation Awareness
More than a celebration, the festival is also a platform for community engagement and conservation messaging. It promotes coexistence between people and wildlife, highlights ethical tourism practices and showcases the traditional relationship between mahouts (elephant handlers) and their animals.
The Elephant and Tourism Festival of Chitwan remains one of Nepal’s most unique and meaningful celebrations. Blending tradition, conservation awareness and tourism promotion, it offers visitors an engaging glimpse into the cultural heart of Sauraha while contributing to the protection and appreciation of Nepal’s natural heritage.
As the festival continues to evolve, it stands as a symbol of how communities can celebrate their traditions while moving steadily towards more responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
PC: Wikimedia Commons
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