Elephant safaris to start in south Bengal
Elephant safaris are common in north Bengal. Now they are going to start in south Bengal too.
The safaris on elephant-back are going to be organised for tourists visiting Joypur in Bankura district for the five-day ‘Elephant Corridor’ Joypur Mela, from December 15. The name refers to the fact that the forest there is a major corridor, or path of migration, for wild elephants. Besides wild elephants, the pristine forest around Joypur is home to deer, peacocks and bears, to see all of which is the safari programme being held.
The fair is just two years old, but is steadily becoming a major tourist attraction. The idea behind the fair is to make people aware of the history, tradition, and art and culture of the region, lying bang in the middle of a major elephant corridor.
The Forest Department is organising these safaris, for which 10 elephants are being trained under the guidance of experienced mahouts.
