Run jointly by the Karnataka Forest Department and Jungle Lodges & Resorts on the eastern bank of the Cauvery, Dubare has long served as a training and holding camp for elephants captured from the wild or transferred between reserves, including several later paraded in Mysuru’s Dasara festivities. Visitors can watch or assist with the mahouts’ morning bathing and feeding routine, and coracle crossings and river rafting launches from the camp add to its use as an adventure-tourism base within the surrounding reserve forest. Dubare Elephant Camp sits at an elevation of 850 m and is typically explored in about half day. The most favourable months to visit are January, December, November, and February, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Elephant Feeding and Training Demonstration, Elephant Museum and Interpretation Centre, and Nature Walk and Bird Watching Trail. Other notable highlights include watching the morning elephant bathing ritual in the Cauvery, feeding bananas to the camp's resident elephants, and seeing mahouts prepare elephants for the Dasara procession. It falls within Coorg and Kodagu district, India.
State: Karnataka
Ideal Duration: Half Day
January, December, November, February
The elephants are well-trained and accustomed to visitors, but you must always follow the mahout’s instructions. Do not stand directly behind an elephant, avoid sudden movements, and never feed them anything other than the food provided by the camp. Children must be supervised at all times, and photography is allowed but without flash.
Carry a water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent, as the area is open and near the river. Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothes and closed-toe shoes, because the ground can be muddy near the water. Avoid carrying large bags or valuables, as there are no lockers, and keep your hands free for holding the railings on the boat and the walking paths.
Yes, most activities like watching the bathing, feeding, and brushing are done from a viewing platform or at ground level with minimal walking. However, the path from the jetty to the camp is uneven and sandy, so sturdy footwear and a slow pace are recommended. The boat ride itself is short and stable, but staff can assist with boarding if you ask.
The camp is most active in the morning, between 8:30 AM and 11:30 AM, when the elephants are bathed and fed. Plan to spend about 2 to 3 hours, including the boat ride across the river, which is the only way to reach the camp. Afternoon visits are possible but quieter, as the elephants rest during the hottest part of the day.
Yes, it is strongly recommended to book online in advance, especially during peak season (October to March), as the camp limits daily visitor numbers. The entry fee is roughly ₹100 per person for Indian citizens and ₹500 for foreign nationals, with additional charges for activities like elephant bathing or a mahout experience. The boat ride to the camp is usually included in the ticket, but confirm at the booking counter.