The Twilight Transition: A Mahout’s Oral History of the Night
The Twilight Transition: A Mahout’s Oral History of the Night When the last tourist vehicle leaves the gates of Amer, ... Read More
A Day in the Life of a Mahout at Hathi Gaon: The Unseen Bond
Behind the royal spectacle of elephants in Jaipur lies a world of quiet devotion, ancient tradition, and a relationship that transcends the boundaries between human and animal. Hathi Gaon (Elephant Village), situated at the foothills of the Amber Palace, is not just a sanctuary; it is a community where Mahouts (caretakers) and elephants have co-existed for generations. ... Read More
The Hathi Gaon Practical Cheat Sheet: 2026 Essential Travel Guide
The Hathi Gaon Practical Cheat Sheet: 2026 Essential Travel Guide As we move into 2026, Hathi Gaon (the Elephant Village) ... Read More
Beyond The Forts- 5 Ethical Elephant Experiences You Can Only Have at Hathi Gaon
Beyond the Forts: 5 Ethical Elephant Experiences You Can Only Have at Hathi Gaon Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is ... Read More
What Does “Ethical Elephant Tourism” Actually Look Like in India?
India, with its deep historical and cultural reverence for elephants, is home to a significant population of these majestic giants. Unfortunately, this reverence has often translated into their use in the tourism industry—for temple ceremonies, shows, and, most visibly, for rides at historic sites like Amber Fort in Jaipur.
However, global awareness about animal welfare has dramatically shifted the travel landscape. Today, the conscious traveler seeks "Ethical Elephant Tourism," a phrase frequently used but often poorly understood. The term is sometimes used by businesses for "greenwashing"—marketing cruelty as care. ... Read More
Monsoon Playbook: Heat, Flood & Drought Preparedness for Elephant Welfare in Rajasthan
The monsoon season in Rajasthan brings with it a unique set of climatic challenges and opportunities—particularly for the welfare of elephants. In a landscape known for its arid heat, sudden downpours, and occasional drought spells, the welfare of captive and semi-captive elephants demands proactive and seasonally adapted protocols. At our facility in Rajasthan, we combine seasonal operations with climate-adaptation protocols to ensure our elephants thrive—not merely survive—through heat waves, monsoon flooding, and dry spells.
Why is this so important? Elephants are large animals with high metabolic heat production; in a hot, semi-arid climate like Rajasthan, heat stress is a real threat. At the same time, waterlogged grounds from heavy rains, inadequate drainage, or flooded enclosures can lead to foot & hoof problems, accidents, skin issues and behavioural stress. Conversely, during drought or low-rain periods, water scarcity adds another layer of risk—limited bathing/wallowing opportunities, insufficient forage hydration, and increased competition for resources. By implementing a robust “Monsoon Playbook”, we ensure elephants enjoy high standards of welfare year-round and our visitors get the best, sustainable, ethical experience. ... Read More
