Elephants feast on 20 varieties of treats at Chitwan’s annual picnic

In Chitwan, Nepal, elephants were treated to a lavish picnic featuring 20 different food items to celebrate World Elephant Day. Fifty-six elephants, including those used for safaris and park patrols, gathered at the Baghmara Forest office premises for the annual event.

The "elephant picnic," now in its 15th year, was organized by the United Elephant Management Cooperative Limited, a group of private safari operators. They coordinated with government agencies and conservation organizations to ensure the well-being of the animals.

Dipendra Khatiwada, chairman of the cooperative, emphasized the connection between tourism and elephant conservation. "Because elephants are closely linked to tourism, private operators in Sauraha and Chitwan have also been involved in their conservation," he stated. "We are committed to animal welfare, and the well-being of elephants also benefits tourism entrepreneurs."

The feast included a diverse menu of paddy, chickpeas, jaggery, carrots, sugarcane, apples, bananas, watermelons, dragon fruit, papayas, guavas, pears, pumpkins, pineapples, maize, and bread. Elephants also received their regular feed, kuchi, and salt.

Tourists and locals watched as the elephants enjoyed their specially prepared meal, marking a unique celebration of these majestic animals.

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Because elephants are closely linked to tourism, private operators in Sauraha and Chitwan have also been involved in their conservation. We are committed to animal welfare, and the well-being of elephants also benefits tourism entrepreneurs.