Sapana Elephant Care is located in Sauraha-7, Sapana Village Lodge, Chitwan, Nepal. We are dedicated to the rescue, protection, and lifelong care of elephants in a natural and compassionate environment.
Our mission focuses on Rescue & Protection for elephants who have suffered from abuse, neglect, or exploitation. We provide a safe haven where elephants can heal both physically and emotionally.
We offer Lifelong Care to ensure rescued elephants live with dignity, respect, and freedom. Through Education & Awareness, we work to inspire responsible tourism and promote elephant welfare.
Sapana Elephant Care also supports Sustainable Tourism, allowing visitors to experience ethical elephant interactions while helping protect wildlife and support local communities in Chitwan.
Learn More About UsIf you love and respect elephants, join our ethical experiences
Jungle Walks
With Breakfast
Ethical Elephant Experience
Namaste! I am Dhurba Giri, a social entrepreneur from Sauraha, Chitwan, Nepal, driven by a passion for hospitality, community development, and turning dreams into reality. My journey began at 14 as a waiter, where I learned English through conversations with guests. Despite challenges, my dedication never wavered, and I dreamed of building a business that could uplift my community.
A turning point came when I met Judit Hummel from the Netherlands. Her family’s generous support allowed me to rent a small hotel, marking the start of my entrepreneurial path. In 2001, I purchased land to establish Sapana Village Lodge (www.sapanalodge.com), named after the Nepali word for "dream." The lodge became a hub for sustainable tourism, local employment, and social impact.
Dhurba Giri
Founder, Sapana Lodge
Founder | Chairperson, SVSI – Sapana Village Social Impact
Founder, Sapana School
“Sapana Village Lodge offers a truly ethical and meaningful experience. Seeing elephants roam freely without chains and observing their natural behaviour was deeply moving. The lodge combines comfort, conservation, and genuine care.”
— Himal Shahi Thakuri, Nepal