Tourists have a reason to rejoice as the much-awaited elephant safari has finally begun at Kolkas in the Melghat Tiger Reserve (MTR), ending months of anticipation. The start of the safari has brought fresh excitement among visitors to the region.
Kolkas, often called the paradise of Melghat, is a major attraction for tourists visiting Chikhaldara and nearby scenic spots, with the elephant safari being a key highlight. The activity is especially popular among children and families, making it a major draw during Christmas holidays and weekends.
Traditionally, the elephant safari begins on October 2 each year. However, this year’s launch was delayed due to a series of tiger attacks in nearby tribal hamlets that resulted in six deaths and caused widespread fear among residents. Considering the situation, the safari was finally started on December 15 with two female elephants—Sundarmala and Champakali. The other two female elephants have been assigned to forest patrolling to ensure the safety of tribal villagers and to monitor tiger movement.
The 100-year-old elephant Jayashree, stationed at Kolkas, has been relieved of all duties and allowed to rest.
At present, Sundarmala and Champakali are being used for tourist safaris at Kolkas, while Sundarkali from Jarida and Lakshmi from Harisal have been deployed for forest patrol duties in the Harisal area to protect both wildlife and local communities.
As part of the annual routine, all female elephants will undergo Ayurvedic foot treatment in January and will be given a 15-day break. Tourists can, however, enjoy the elephant safari for at least a month before this scheduled pause.
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