Kodanad Elephant Training Centre, Kochi Overview

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre, also known as Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary, is a popular tourist destination located in the Ernakulam district, Kerala. Situated near the southern banks of the Periyar River, the sanctuary is surrounded by towering mountains and is known for its 'Elephant Kraal,' elephant rescue center, mini zoo, and elephant rides.

Kodanad was once the largest elephant training center in Kerala for captured elephants from the adjoining forest regions. However, since the ban on elephant capturing was enforced in the 1970s, Kodanad now primarily serves as a rescue and training center for stranded adult and baby elephants. The sanctuary offers visitors the opportunity to witness the feeding and bathing of elephants, watch baby elephants during their early training years, and enjoy elephant rides.

The place is also ideal for exciting photography as it offers many walkways alongside the river and unspoiled, rustic views of the surroundings. Elephants are considered auspicious animals in Kerala, and Kodanad is one of the best places to view these magnificent beings up close. Visitors can learn about elephant care and training while enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings of the Periyar River and the high ranges.

Must Know Before You Visit Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

Note :

Plastic bags are not allowed so, make sure to bring either paper or cotton bags if you are planning to carry drinks, food items, or any other things.
While there are some shops and eateries nearby, it is recommended to carry cash as credit or debit card facilities are mostly not accepted in the nearby areas.
Be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity, as there may be some walking involved.
One must consider carrying medical aid kit in the sanctuary and remain careful while observing and interacting with the elephants to avoid any accidents.
Plan your transportation to and from the center in advance.

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre Highlights

1. Elephant Rides

Visitors can enjoy elephant rides that take them through the lush green forests and scenic surroundings of Kodanad. These rides provide a unique experience and a chance to get up close and personal wi (Read More)th the gentle giants. The ride is conducted by trained mahouts who expertly guide the elephants along the path, providing an unforgettable experience.

2. Elephants Feeding

Elephants spend over 80% of their waking hours eating, so visitors at the Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary can observe the elephants being fed. It is fascinating to watch elephants feed themselves in their (Read More)natural environment. Visitors can also observe the elephants' eating habits and learn about their diet and nutritional needs.

3. Elephant Bathing

The bathing activity is not only fun and enjoyable but also a crucial part of the elephants' daily routine. Watching the elephants bathe and play in the Periyar River is another highlight of the Kodan (Read More)ad Elephant Training Centre. It's a great spectacle to witness and an excellent opportunity for photography. Visitors can also help the mahouts in washing and scrubbing the elephants during their bath time after taking permission from the officials.

4. Elephant Training Sessions

The Kodanad Elephant Training Centre offers a unique opportunity to witness the elephant training sessions where mahouts (elephant keepers) work closely with the elephants, using a variety of techniqu (Read More)es to train them for various tasks such as carrying logs, lifting heavy objects, and responding to different commands. The training sessions are not only informative but also entertaining, as visitors get to witness the elephants' incredible strength and intelligence.

Read More on Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

History of the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

The Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is located in the southern Indian state of Kerala and has a long history of over 100 years. It was originally established as a place where wild elephants were captured and tamed for use in the timber industry. Over time, the focus of the centre shifted to training elephants for cultural and religious events, such as temple festivals and processions.

In 1971, the Indian government banned the capture of wild elephants, and the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre began to focus exclusively on caring for and training captive elephants. The centre is now operated by the Kerala Forest Department and is a popular tourist destination, where visitors can watch the elephants being bathed and trained. The centre is also involved in research and conservation efforts related to the Asian elephant.

Why is Kodanad Elephant Training Centre famous?

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is famous for being one of the largest elephant training centres in Kerala, India. The centre is also known for rescuing orphaned and abandoned elephant calves and rehabilitating them into a new herd. Moreover, it is operated by the Kerala Forest Department which works towards conserving and protecting the Indian elephants, which are trained here with utmost care and affection.

Visitors can witness elephants being bathed, fed, and trained by experienced mahouts (elephant trainers), and also take part in activities such as elephant rides and boating. The center's beautiful location and the unique experience it offers makes it a popular tourist attraction in Kerala.

How to Reach Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is located 18km away from the Cochin International Airport. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach the center. The nearest railway station is the Aluva Railway Station, which is around 20 km away. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the center. If you are traveling from Kochi, you can take the NH47 highway towards Aluva and then take the diversion towards Perumbavoor. From Perumbavoor, Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is approximately 20 km away.

Best time to visit Kodanad Elephant Training Centre

One can visit Kodanad Elephant Training Centre throughout the year, however, the best time to visit is during the winter months of November to February, as the weather is cool and pleasant. Moreover, it is recommended to reach at least before 3 PM leaving yourself enough time to explore the Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary as the entry gate of the center is closed at 4:30 PM.

Is it possible to ride elephants at the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre?

The Kodanad Elephant Training Centre does currently offer elephant ride. However, in recent years, there has been a growing concern over the welfare of captive elephants used for tourism, including elephant rides. It is recommended to contact the local authorities before visiting.

Can visitors feed the elephants at the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre?

Kodanad Elephant Training Centre has rules and regulations in place to ensure the safety of both visitors and elephants, and visitors are not allowed to feed the elephants.

Is the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre involved in any conservation efforts?

The Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is involved in several conservation efforts related to the Asian elephant. The centre is operated by the Kerala Forest Department, and one of its main objectives is to protect and preserve the local elephant population. The center provides medical care and rehabilitation services to injured or sick elephants and also conducts research on elephant behavior and ecology.

In addition, the Kodanad Elephant Training Centre is involved in several community outreach programs aimed at raising awareness about elephant conservation. These programs include initiatives to promote eco-tourism, provide alternative livelihoods for communities living near elephant habitats, and encourage responsible waste management to prevent habitat destruction.