Summary
India is renowned for its remarkable elephants, particularly in regions like Kerala and Rajasthan. It is only natural for travelers to seek experiences that involve these majestic animals. However, many visitors often find their expectations shattered; they are often taken aback to learn that many elephants remain chained in less ethical venues, such as Dubare Elephant Camp in Karnataka and Guruvayur Elephant Camp in Kerala, where these magnificent creatures are made to perform tricks.
Fortunately, there are a few ethical tourism destinations focused on elephant interactions, ensuring these animals are treated with dignity and respect. Visiting rehabilitation centers that promote conservation and the well-being of elephants serves as a positive alternative.
1. Wildlife S.O.S. Elephant Conservation and Care Center, Mathura
Address: NH2, Ghari, near Sachdeva Institute of Technology, Churmura, Uttar Pradesh 281122, India
Phone: +91 96900 09792
Wildlife S.O.S. is an esteemed non-profit organization dedicated to safeguarding wildlife in India. The center offers medical assistance to injured and unhealthy elephants often forced into labor in urban settings. Additionally, the organization rescues abused elephants, rehabilitating them at its primary Elephant Conservation and Care Center in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. Currently, this facility rehabilitates over 20 elephants and welcomes tourists for visits and volunteering.
Short two-hour visits are available, scheduled in advance. This engaging experience allows participants to bathe and feed the elephants (they are usually in the pool from March to October), learn about their care, and explore the facility.
2. Kipling Camp, Kanha, Madhya Pradesh
Address: Kanha National Park, Mocha, Madhya Pradesh 481768, India
Phone: +91 98110 15221
Tara, one of India’s most renowned elephants, enjoys a comfortable retirement at Kipling Camp, a premier wildlife lodge in Madhya Pradesh. Her presence at the camp, established in 1982 by conservationist families and adopted in 1989 from Mark Shand, captures the hearts of guests who return annually to connect with her. Visitors can accompany Tara during her afternoon bath in the river, an experience that truly exemplifies the bond between humans and elephants.
3. Smiling Tusker Elephant Camp, Manas, Assam
Address: Manas National Park, Bansbari range, Barangabari, Assam 781315, India
Phone: +91 94352 06296
Located on the edge of pristine Manas National Park, the Smiling Tusker Elephant Camp, established by local youths, is dedicated to providing a better life for unemployed elephants. Assam boasts a significant number of captive elephants due to its long-standing tradition of working with these animals. Unfortunately, reduced demand for their services has led many elephants to seek alternative means of sustenance.
Smiling Tusker not only cares for elephants but also pays their owners a consistent monthly wage. The camp earned recognition as a runner-up in the Sanctuary and Travel Operators for Tigers 2014 Wildlife Tourism Awards in the Wildlife Tourism Related Community Initiative of the Year category. The camp consists of a Mahout Camp reflecting the lifestyle of elephant handlers, an exhibition center, and visitor accommodations where one can feed, bathe, and learn about these magnificent creatures.
4. Elefantastic, Jaipur, Rajasthan
Address: 361, Ankron Ka Rasta, Kishanpole Bazar, Chandpole Bazar, Chandpole, Jalupura, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001, India
Phone: +91 80942 53150
One of the renowned attractions in Jaipur, Elefantastic is situated in an elephant village near Amber Fort, where the caretakers of the city’s working elephants live with their animals. Owned by Rahul, the fourth-generation mahout, Elefantastic was created to offer tourists a chance to interact closely with well-cared-for elephants. It is notably one of the few places where elephants are allowed freedom without being tethered. Out of the 24 elephants at Elefantastic, six were rescued from harsh conditions, including prior circus performances.
Visitors to Elefantastic can feed, paint with non-toxic colors, and even wash the elephants (though not in winter). Additionally, guests enjoy delicious home-cooked vegetarian meals. However, it’s crucial to be aware that similar businesses in Jaipur may offer lower rates, often at the cost of animal welfare. In contrast, Elefantastic’s pricing reflects the superior care provided for the elephants, evidenced by the significant daily costs involved in their upkeep.
