Previously these elephants were used at another lodge for tourist rides and they were treated poorly. Dhruba Giri negotiated a deal with the owners to move them and give them shelter at Sapana Lodge.

Trained elephants cannot be set free due to their dependency on humans, lack of survival skills, and potential conflicts with wild herds. They may face rejection or aggression from wild elephants and risk causing human-wildlife conflicts if they wander into settlements.

Additionally, Nepal's limited forest habitat and ecological pressures make reintegration challenging. Domesticated elephants may also carry or contract diseases, posing risks to both themselves and wild populations.

Ethical sanctuaries such as the one at Sapana offer a humane solution, providing a safe, semi-natural environment where these elephants can live peacefully under care while promoting conservation and sustainable tourism practices.

The chain around the neck makes it easier for caregivers, the mahouts, to identify, manage, and handle the elephants, especially in semi-wild or sanctuary environments. In case of unexpected situations, such as a frightened or agitated elephant, the chain allows handlers to intervene for everyone's safety.

The mahouts ride the elephants to ensure better control, especially during tasks like moving the elephants safely through the rivers or on the road back to the night shelter. Mahouts develop a deep, trusting bond with the elephant over years, minimizing stress or harm to the animal.

Sapana is proud to host five rescued elephants. Through the collaborative efforts of Sapana Village Lodge and Direct Aid Nepal, we have established a chain-free shelter where these majestic giants can live in peace and dignity.

An adult elephant eats 200–300 kg of food every day. They need a variety of vegetation including grasses, leaves, fruits, and especially tree branches. We also prepare special food candies called "Kuchi" made from rice, molasses, salt, and elephant grass. The elephants have access to natural jungle habitat where they can graze and browse on their own.

This is our guiding principle for ethical elephant care. "No Chain" means our elephants stay in chain-free corrals at night where they can roam freely. "No Pain" means we never use bull hooks or any tools that cause suffering. "No Ride" means tourists do not ride the elephants, preventing stress and physical harm to their spines and bodies.

Despite being termed pachyderms, elephants are not thick-skinned but very sensitive. Their skin is heavily grooved with a loose-fitting appearance and is prone to irritation from insect bites and mites living within the skin folds. Regular bathing is vital to the good health of the animals, helping them stay cool and free from parasites.

Early morning is ideal for the Sunrise Elephant Bush Walk (6:30 AM - 8:30 AM) when elephants are most active. The elephant bath time is around 11:30 AM at the riverside. Evening visits to the sanctuary (around 7:00 PM) offer a unique opportunity to see the elephants settling into their night corrals. Each time offers a different and magical experience.

You can support our elephants by participating in our ethical programs such as jungle walks, feeding sessions, and the Elephant Care Program. All proceeds go directly toward elephant food, veterinary care, and maintaining their sanctuary. You can also spread awareness about ethical elephant tourism and choose sanctuaries that follow "No Ride" policies. Every visit helps us continue our mission to provide a safe haven for these gentle giants.