Qatar will soon welcome two elephants from Nepal’s Chitwan National Park, marking a historic exchange between the two nations. The arrival of Rudrakali, a seven-year-old female, and Khagendra Prasad, a six-year-old male, highlights growing wildlife cooperation. This initiative will showcase elephants in Qatar for the first time.
The Khorsor breeding facility in Chitwan raised and trained both elephants. They will depart for Qatar in the coming month. Officials said the request for transfer began two years ago through diplomatic channels, and the process has now concluded.
Mahouts will travel with the elephants for at least one month. They will train Qatari caretakers in handling techniques and elephant behavior. By sharing their knowledge, Nepal will ensure a smooth adaptation period for elephants in Qatar.
Qatar authorities prepared special measures to protect the animals from extreme summer heat. They built air-conditioned housing units to maintain safe temperatures. The elephants will eat hay imported from India at first, followed later by supplies from Nepal.
Trucks will move Rudrakali and Khagendra Prasad from Sauraha to Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahwa. A chartered aircraft will then fly them directly to Doha. Qatari officials will oversee their arrival, while the Qatari embassy in Nepal covers all costs.
Officials stressed that the exchange strengthens bilateral ties and enhances conservation awareness. They explained that hosting elephants in Qatar also showcases Nepal’s biodiversity on the international stage.
The Chitwan breeding center, founded in 1985, has produced 68 elephants so far. It originally received elephants from India, Myanmar, and Thailand. This transfer marks the first time elephants born at the center will travel abroad.
By receiving Rudrakali and Khagendra Prasad, Qatar will expand its zoo offerings and demonstrate global collaboration in wildlife preservation.
