19th Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival in Nepal Ends with Major Impact on Tourism and Elephant Conservation, Strengthening Regional Growth and Cultural Heritage

Published on December 31, 2025

The 19th edition of the Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival in Nepal came to a close in the vibrant town of Sauraha, Chitwan, bringing together thousands of domestic and international tourists to celebrate the deep-rooted bond between elephants, local culture, and wildlife conservation. This year’s festival, which ran from Friday to the final day, blended tourism promotion, cultural celebration, and conservation awareness in a uniquely engaging way, making it one of the most anticipated annual events in the country.

The festival’s grand finale showcased various elephant-centric events, including parades, contests, and a symbolic elephant picnic, during which more than 50 elephants enjoyed a feast of their favorite foods—rice, jaggery pudding, fruits, and sugarcanes. These activities not only entertained the visitors but also highlighted the importance of elephants in local culture and the need for wildlife conservation.

A Majestic Start: Elephants, Culture, and Community

The festival opened with a spectacular ceremonial parade that featured elephants adorned in traditional attire, accompanied by Tharu dancers performing their vibrant dances, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. The opening ceremony set the tone for a weekend filled with traditional performances and community activities that drew both domestic and international visitors.

The Chitwan Elephant Festival is strategically designed to attract more visitors to the Chitwan National Park and the surrounding Sauraha area, which is known for its rich biodiversity. The event not only highlights Nepal’s commitment to wildlife conservation but also provides a platform for discussing the delicate balance of human-wildlife coexistence. The festival underscores the relationship between the elephants, the community, and the park, offering an educational and immersive experience for visitors of all ages.

Elephant Beauty Contest and the Joy of Interaction

Among the many events that captivated festival-goers was the Elephant Beauty Contest, where a number of elephants were judged on their appearance, health, and overall presentation. Poonam Kali, a majestic elephant, emerged as the winner, leaving the crowd in awe of her beauty and grace. The event drew large crowds, including foreign visitors from countries such as Europe, the United States, China, and India. Tourists eagerly interacted with the elephants, many taking selfies and feeding them fruits, an experience that connected them more deeply with the local wildlife and culture.

One of the most thrilling moments of the festival was the penalty shot contest in which Champakali, a beloved elephant, enthusiastically struck a ball into a net to the cheers of the crowd. Such interactive activities allowed visitors to experience firsthand the intelligence and gentle nature of these majestic animals, further deepening their connection with the region’s wildlife and culture.

Impact on Tourism and Local Economy

The Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival has become a significant driver of tourism growth in Nepal, especially in the Sauraha and Chitwan National Park areas. With the increasing number of international and domestic visitors, the event plays a pivotal role in the local economy by boosting the tourism sector. Hotels, lodges, and local businesses in the region experienced a surge in demand as tourists flocked to witness the unique events. The festival also helps to promote Chitwan as a prime destination for wildlife tourism, particularly elephant safaris and visits to the Chitwan National Park.

The festival emphasizes the importance of conservation tourism—a growing sector in the travel industry. As more tourists visit areas like Chitwan National Park to engage with the elephant population, the local government and conservation groups are better equipped to implement programs that protect wildlife and their natural habitats. This in turn ensures that the tourism sector in the region remains sustainable, with wildlife conservation and cultural preservation at its core.

The Festival’s Role in Promoting Wildlife Conservation

At its heart, the Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival is a celebration of wildlife conservation. The elephants that participated in the festival were primarily from the Elephant Breeding Centre in Nepal, along with those owned by private individuals. This collaboration between government and private sectors is essential for the conservation of Nepal’s elephant population. The festival’s events, including the elephant picnic, were designed not only to entertain but also to draw attention to the importance of protecting these magnificent animals.

The festival encourages visitors to appreciate the significance of human-elephant coexistence and raises awareness of the threats elephants face in the wild. By drawing attention to their role in local traditions and ecosystems, the festival plays a crucial part in advocating for stronger conservation efforts in the region.

International Appeal and Cultural Significance

The festival’s international appeal was evident, as tourists from across the globe arrived in Nepal to take part in the celebrations. The opportunity to interact with the elephants and engage in cultural activities provided a memorable experience for visitors, making it a must-see event for those exploring the cultural and natural wonders of Nepal. For many foreign visitors, the festival represented a unique opportunity to witness Nepalese culture and elephant conservation efforts firsthand.

Visitors were also treated to a rich display of local Tharu dance performances, traditional foods, and other cultural exhibits that enhanced the overall experience. These elements highlight the deep connection between the people of Sauraha and the elephants that call the region home, adding another layer of cultural immersion for travelers.

A Call for Sustainable Tourism

As tourism continues to grow in regions like Chitwan, it is essential that it evolves with a focus on sustainability. The Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival is a perfect example of how cultural celebrations and wildlife conservation can be intertwined with tourism development to create a positive impact. With Nepal’s tourism sector steadily gaining recognition, festivals like this play an important role in educating visitors about the need to preserve the natural world while promoting responsible travel practices.

The Chitwan Elephant Festival also serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with wildlife tourism. As travelers flock to Nepal to experience its natural wonders, it is vital to ensure that the industry grows in a way that benefits both local communities and the environment. This requires ongoing collaboration between government agencies, private businesses, and conservationists to maintain a balance between tourism development and ecosystem protection.

Conclusion: Nepal’s Rising Tourism Spotlight

The 19th Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival stands as a testament to Nepal’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and fostering a thriving tourism industry. By blending cultural celebrations, elephant conservation, and tourism promotion, the festival has proven to be a significant catalyst for regional tourism growth. As Nepal continues to attract visitors from around the world, events like this play a critical role in showcasing the country’s unique blend of wildlife, culture, and sustainability.

For both local and international tourists, the festival provided a rare opportunity to connect with Nepal’s vibrant wildlife, explore its cultural richness, and participate in efforts to ensure the conservation of its iconic elephants. Moving forward, the Chitwan Elephant Festival will undoubtedly remain an integral part of Nepal’s growing tourism landscape, offering a model for how cultural and wildlife tourism can go hand in hand to benefit both travelers and local communities.