CHITWAN, Dec 26: The 18th Chitwan Elephant and Tourism Festival began today in Sauraha, Chitwan. Inaugurated by Deputy Prime Minister Prakash Man Singh, the event seeks to promote elephant-friendly tourism.
The festival features a procession with elephants and performers in traditional costumes. Activities include an elephant football penalty shootout, elephant ring competition, musical walk, health check-up camp, and cultural performances. It also highlights women entrepreneurs and local agriculture.
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The festival, running until December 30, offers a 10 percent discount on food and accommodation at local hotels and restaurants for visitors. The event aims to boost tourism, with a 25-30 percent annual increase in tourists since its inception in 1998.
