Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend a day with elephants? To feed them, bathe them, groom them, and learn about their lives? If yes, then you should definitely visit Dubare Elephant Camp in Coorg, Karnataka. Dubare Elephant Camp is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers you a rare opportunity to interact with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Dubare Elephant Camp, its features, attractions, activities, timings, entry fee, location, and packages. We will also give you some tips and advice on how to make the most of your visit to this amazing camp.
Dubare Elephant Camp: A Unique Experience with Elephants
Dubare Elephant Camp is not just a tourist attraction, but also a conservation and education center for elephants. The camp is run by Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd, a government-owned company that operates eco-tourism resorts in Karnataka. The camp was established in 1988 as a training camp for elephants that were used for logging operations by the forest department.
The main attraction of the camp is the elephant interaction session that takes place every morning from 8:30 am to 11:00 am.
During this session, you can get up close and personal with the elephants and participate in various activities such as:
1. Elephant riding: You can ride on the back of an elephant and enjoy a scenic view of the forest and the river. The ride lasts for about 15 minutes and costs Rs. 100 per person.
2. Elephant feeding: You can feed the elephants with ragi (a type of millet), jaggery (a type of sugar), and bananas. You can also watch them munch on bamboo and grass. The feeding costs Rs. 20 per person.
3. Elephant bathing: You can join the mahouts (elephant handlers) in bathing the elephants in the river. You can scrub their skin with brushes and splash water on them. The bathing costs Rs. 100 per person.
4. Elephant grooming: You can help the mahouts in grooming the elephants by applying oil on their skin and trimming their nails. The grooming costs Rs. 100 per person.
5. Elephant learning: You can listen to the mahouts as they explain the history, anatomy, physiology, behaviour, and intelligence of the elephants. You can also ask them any questions you have about these magnificent creatures.
The elephant interaction session is a fun and educational experience that will give you a deeper appreciation and respect for the elephants. You will also get to witness their personality, emotions, and intelligence. The session is suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds.
Entry Fee: Rs. 690 per person for Indians and Rs. 1,472 per person for foreigners.
This includes the boat ride across the river to reach the camp, the elephant interaction session, breakfast, lunch, tea/coffee, and taxes. You can also opt for additional activities such as jeep safari or wildlife film show at extra charges. You need to make an online reservation for the camp through the official website of Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd.
To make your visit more memorable, you can also stay overnight at the camp in one of the cottages or tents that are available for rent. The accommodation is comfortable and cozy, with amenities such as attached bathrooms, hot water, electricity, etc. You can also enjoy delicious meals at the dining hall that serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.
Price: The tariff for staying at the camp ranges from Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 4,000 per person per night depending on the type of accommodation and season.
Read to know more: Dubare Elephant Camps: A Hidden Treasure In Coorg
Dubare Elephant Camp: A Gateway to Coorg’s Attractions
Dubare Elephant Camp is not only a great place to visit by itself but also a gateway to explore other attractions and places to visit in Coorg. Coorg is one of the most popular hill stations in Karnataka that is known for its scenic beauty, rich culture, and adventurous activities.
Some of the nearby attractions that you can visit from the camp are:
1. Abbey Falls: Abbey Falls is a spectacular waterfall that is located about 15 km from the camp. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and coffee plantations and offers a refreshing sight and sound. You can reach the waterfall by a short trek from the main road and enjoy the view from a hanging bridge. The best time to visit the waterfall is during the monsoon season when it is at its full glory. The entry fee for the waterfall is Rs. 15 per person.
2. Omkareshwar Temple: Omkareshwar Temple is a beautiful temple that is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located about 30 km from the camp. The temple was built in 1820 by the king of Coorg and has a unique mix of Islamic and Gothic architecture. The temple has a large water tank in front of it that houses many fish that are considered sacred. You can also see a small shrine of Lord Ganesha inside the temple. The temple is open from 6:30 am to 12:00 pm and from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. There is no entry fee for the temple.
3. Madikeri Fort: Madikeri Fort is a historic fort that is located in the heart of Madikeri town, which is about 35 km from the camp. The fort was built in the 17th century by the king of Coorg and was later renovated by Tipu Sultan and the British. The fort houses a museum, a church, a prison, and a palace that display various artifacts and paintings related to the history and culture of Coorg. You can also enjoy a panoramic view of the town from the fort walls. The fort is open from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm except on Mondays. There is no entry fee for the fort.
4. Raja Seat: Raja Seat is a scenic spot that is located about 36 km from the camp. It is said that the kings of Coorg used to sit here and enjoy the sunset and the view of the valley. The spot has a garden, a fountain, and a musical show that add to its charm. You can also see a toy train that runs around the garden for children.
The best time to visit Raja Seat is in the evening when you can witness a spectacular sunset and a colorful sky. The entry fee for Raja Seat is Rs. 5 per person and Rs. 10 for the toy train ride.
Dubare Elephant Camp: A Paradise for Adventure Lovers
If you are looking for some thrill and excitement, then Dubare Elephant Camp has plenty to offer you. Apart from interacting with elephants, you can also indulge in various adventure activities that will make your adrenaline rush.
Some of the adventure activities that you can enjoy at or around the camp are:
1. Jungle Safari: Jungle Safari is an activity that allows you to explore the wildlife and nature of Coorg in an open jeep. You can spot various animals such as deer, bison, wild boar, peacock, etc. and birds such as kingfisher, hornbill, parrot, etc. You can also see different types of trees, plants, flowers, etc.
Price: The safari lasts for about an hour and costs Rs. 300 per person.
2. Wildlife Film Show: Wildlife Film Show is an activity that allows you to watch a documentary film on the wildlife and nature of Coorg in a hall. The film showcases various aspects of the flora and fauna of Coorg such as their habitat, behavior, adaptation, conservation, etc.
Price: The film lasts for about 30 minutes and costs Rs. 100 per person.
3. River Rafting: River Rafting is an activity that allows you to experience the thrill of riding on the rapids of Cauvery river. You can choose from different levels of difficulty depending on your skill and courage. You will be provided with safety gear such as helmets, life jackets, paddles, etc. and guided by trained instructors.
Price: The rafting lasts for about an hour and costs Rs. 1,000 per person.
4. Camping: Camping is an activity that allows you to stay overnight in tents near the river bank. You can enjoy the serenity and beauty of nature under the stars. You will be provided with basic amenities such as mattresses, blankets, pillows, etc. and delicious food cooked on a campfire. You can also engage in some fun games and activities with your fellow campers.
Price: The camping costs Rs. 1,500 per person per night.
5. Trekking: Trekking is an activity that allows you to hike on the trails of Coorg and witness its scenic landscapes. You can choose from different routes and difficulty levels depending on your preference and stamina. You can see various attractions such as waterfalls, hills, valleys, forests, etc. along the way. You will be accompanied by experienced guides who will ensure your safety and comfort.
Price: The trekking costs Rs. 500 per person.
Booking details: Visit the official website of Jungle Lodges and Resorts Ltd or contact them at +91-80-40554055 or info@junglelodges.com.
Dubare Elephant Camp is a must-visit destination for elephant lovers and adventure seekers in Coorg. It offers you a unique and exciting experience with elephants, as well as other attractions and activities that will make your trip memorable and enjoyable.
Whether you want to visit the camp for a day or stay overnight, you will find something that suits your taste and budget. We hope this article has given you enough information and motivation to visit Dubare Elephant Camp and Coorg. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below.
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