Elephant and Tourism Festival in Sauraha Kicks Off with a Spectacular Elephant Parade, Cultural Performances, and New Initiatives for Wildlife Conservation in Nepal

Published on December 26, 2025

Sauraha, a prominent town in Nepal’s Chitwan District, is once again in the spotlight as it hosts the highly anticipated 19th Elephant and Tourism Festival. The festival, which began on December 26, 2025, is set to run until December 29 and aims to bring both domestic and international tourists to the region while highlighting the importance of elephant conservation and promoting the local culture. With the growing popularity of Sauraha as a major tourist destination, this event is an excellent opportunity to draw more visitors to Chitwan, where the vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and diverse wildlife await.

The Elephant and Tourism Festival has been celebrated for over a decade, and each year, the event grows in significance, drawing attention to the connection between tourism and conservation. In 2025, the event is expected to attract a significant number of visitors, with hotel occupancy rates in Sauraha already expected to rise to nearly 60% during the festival period. With special discounts on accommodations and meals at local establishments, the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience for both first-time visitors and those returning to this stunning corner of Nepal.

Introduction: Sauraha’s 19th Elephant and Tourism Festival Opens to a Warm Welcome

The 19th Elephant and Tourism Festival in Sauraha, Nepal, officially kicked off on December 26, 2025, bringing together conservationists, tourists, local entrepreneurs, and cultural performers. The festival, held at the Baghmara Buffer Zone Community Forest, is designed to promote Chitwan as a key tourism hub while integrating the region’s efforts in elephant conservation. As Sauraha hosts thousands of tourists each year due to its proximity to Chitwan National Park, the festival provides an exciting platform to blend local culture, wildlife conservation, and tourism development.

The festival’s timing is particularly significant, as it aims to revive tourism in a region that had been severely impacted by the global pandemic. With Sauraha being one of Nepal’s most iconic tourist destinations, known for its safaris, diverse wildlife, and natural beauty, this event serves as an ideal opportunity to highlight both the region’s tourism potential and the role of elephants in Nepal’s heritage. The local business community is eager to welcome the surge in visitors, offering special packages and deals to enhance the visitor experience.

As the tourism sector of Nepal continues to recover, Sauraha has positioned itself as a must-visit destination. The Elephant and Tourism Festival has not only become a celebration of the majestic elephants but also a catalyst for sustainable tourism, combining adventure, culture, and conservation in a unique way that attracts travelers from around the world.

Key Highlights of the 19th Elephant and Tourism Festival

• Festival Duration: The festival will run from December 26 to December 29, 2025, with a range of events planned throughout the four days.
• Primary Objective: The main goals of the event are to boost tourism in Sauraha, promote elephant conservation, and showcase the rich local culture and heritage of the area.
• Hotel Occupancy: Hotels in Sauraha expect a significant rise in occupancy rates from 40% to nearly 60% during the festival period, showing an increase in tourist arrivals.
• Special Discounts: Hotels and restaurants in Sauraha are offering discounts on accommodations and food to attract more visitors and enhance their festival experience.
• Inauguration: The festival was officially inaugurated by Bagmati Province Chief Minister Indra Bahadur Baniya, who highlighted the importance of safeguarding elephants and their role in Nepal’s cultural and natural landscape.

Festival Events and Activities for All Ages

The 19th Elephant and Tourism Festival offers a wide range of exciting events and activities designed for visitors of all ages. From sports competitions to cultural performances, the festival provides a family-friendly atmosphere that celebrates the diversity of Sauraha.

• Elephant Procession: On the first day of the festival, a grand elephant procession was held, starting from the entrance gate of Chitwan National Park. This parade showcased the region’s elephants in their full glory, adorned with traditional decorations, drawing visitors into the heart of the celebrations.
• Elephant Penalty Shootout: One of the most thrilling events of the festival was the elephant penalty shootout, where elephants “played” a football-like game, a popular and fun way to raise awareness about elephant conservation.
• Cultural Performances: Traditional folk music, dance performances, and cultural shows were held throughout the day, giving visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• Elephant Beauty Contest: On the second day, a unique elephant beauty contest was held, showcasing the beauty and strength of the elephants that play such an important role in the cultural and ecological landscape of Chitwan.
• Sports Competitions and Boat Races: The festival also featured boat races, sports competitions, and traditional games, giving attendees an opportunity to engage in local activities and experience the thrill of Sauraha’s community spirit.
• Elephant Health Camp: As part of the festival’s conservation efforts, an elephant health camp was set up, where elephants were checked and treated by veterinary professionals to ensure their well-being.
• Final Day Celebrations: The final day of the festival will include elephant worship, a beautiful tradition honoring these majestic animals, followed by an elephant picnic, cultural performances, and the announcement of competition winners.

A Unique Blend of Conservation, Culture, and Tourism

What sets the Elephant and Tourism Festival apart from other festivals is its deep connection to conservation. As elephants are integral to the local economy and cultural identity, the event highlights their importance not only as wildlife but also as a symbol of Nepal’s heritage.

• Conservation Message: The festival aims to raise awareness about elephant conservation and the importance of maintaining their habitats. It seeks to promote sustainable practices and advocate for a long-term roadmap to enhance the elephant population in Nepal.
• Tourism and Local Economy: The festival serves as a critical tool for driving tourism revenue to local businesses in Sauraha and Chitwan. By showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness, the event attracts domestic and international visitors who contribute to the local economy through hospitality services, travel, and tourism activities.
• Sustainable Tourism: The Nepal Tourism Board has also committed to promoting regenerative tourism, which focuses on restoring and preserving the environment, as a way to balance tourism growth with conservation goals.

Conclusion: Sauraha’s Elephant Festival Promotes Nepal’s Unique Blend of Culture and Nature

The 19th Elephant and Tourism Festival in Sauraha is not only a celebration of the incredible relationship between Nepal and elephants, but it also underscores the country’s ability to combine tourism with conservation. By drawing attention to both local culture and wildlife protection, the festival plays a pivotal role in promoting Nepal’s tourism sector while ensuring the sustainability of the region’s most iconic species. For visitors, this festival offers an unforgettable experience, filled with cultural celebrations, wildlife encounters, and a chance to learn more about Nepal’s commitment to conservation.

This festival is a perfect example of how Nepal continues to evolve as a destination for those looking to connect with nature, culture, and wildlife, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique travel experience in Asia.