Rajendra Acharya, Chitwan : The popular Elephant Bathing Program, a key tourist attraction in Sauraha, has officially resumed. The program has been relaunched under the leadership of the United Elephant Management Cooperative, as part of efforts to promote Sauraha as Nepal’s third major tourism destination.
Conducted on the banks of the Rapti River, which flows alongside the Chitwan National Park, the activity is expected to strengthen Sauraha’s identity as a wildlife- and nature-friendly tourism hub, according to local tourism entrepreneurs.
Dipendra Khatriwada, chairperson of the elephant cooperative, said the revival of the program would provide both domestic and international visitors with a refreshing new experience.
He stated,“Our goal is to promote wildlife conservation alongside tourism development. That’s why we’ve brought back the elephant bathing program in a more organized and sustainable form.”
The Elephant Bath, once a signature experience in Sauraha, had been halted several years ago due to poor management practices. Now, under cooperative supervision, the program has been revived in a more systematic, safe, and environmentally responsible manner.
Local tourism entrepreneurs believe this revival will boost Sauraha’s image and attract more nature-loving visitors from around the world.
