18th edition of Elephant and Tourism Festival kicks off in Sauraha

KATHMANDU, DECEMBER 27: The 18th edition of the Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival 2081 commenced in Sauraha, a popular tourist town in the Chitwan district. 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Urban Development, Prakashman Singh, officially inaugurated the festival, which is organized by the Regional Hotel Association of Nepal, Chitwan.

During the opening ceremony, Minister Singh emphasized the importance of utilizing Nepal’s heritage and resources judiciously to serve national interests and strengthen the economy. He highlighted the festival’s role in promoting both domestic and international tourism in Sauraha.

The festival aims to engage and entertain a growing number of tourists in Sauraha while boosting Nepal's global tourism image. Minister Singh also stressed that such events should balance tourism promotion with wildlife conservation.

On the first day, a penalty shootout elephant-friendly football match was held, setting the tone for a unique and entertaining event.

The festival, which runs until December 30, will feature various activities, including an elephant beauty contest, an elephant picnic, an elephant-friendly musical walk, a boat race, and more.

Additionally, the event will host an interaction program to explore the potential and challenges of tourism in Chitwan. Discussions will focus on the roles of local government, business stakeholders, and the tourism board in advancing the district's tourism sector, said Ram Kumar Aryal, coordinator of the festival’s main organizing committee.

 

 

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