Sauraha, Dec. 29 -- On the cusp of Christmas and the New Year, tourism entrepreneurs in Sauraha were buoyed by a noticeable rise in tourist arrivals-both domestic and international-after months of slow business.

Hoteliers say that poor road conditions and weather-related disruptions to domestic flights failed to deter jungle safari enthusiasts this time. The main attraction was the three-day 19th Elephant and Tourism Festival, which concluded on Sunday.

"Rooms are almost sold out, and bookings are encouraging," said Prakash Neupane, general manager of Banbas Resort in Sauraha. "The elephant festival in Sauraha has become a major draw."

December-to-February is typically considered the off-season in Chitwan, as many foreign tourists retu...