Sakrebailu Elephant Camp

Sakrebailu Elephant Camp is a Karnataka Forest Department-managed elephant camp on the banks of the Tunga River at Sakrebailu, about 14 km from Shivamogga in Karnataka. It houses captive elephants cared for by mahouts and is known for morning bathing and interaction sessions in the river. Surrounded by moist deciduous forest, the camp offers close observation of elephants, interpretation facilities and eco-tourism accommodation operated by Jungle Lodges and Resorts.

Visitors can expect to see captive elephants brought to the Tunga River for bathing, washing and feeding under mahout supervision, usually in the morning hours. The camp is set on a sandy riverbank surrounded by forest with fenced enclosures, viewing areas, and an interpretation centre. Visitors observe elephants at close range, take photographs, learn about elephant care and training, and can walk around the riverside and forest surroundings. Accommodation and food facilities are available within the Jungle Lodges campus adjacent to the camp.

Sakrebailu is one of the older elephant camps in Karnataka managed by the Karnataka Forest Department. It was established to house and train elephants captured from surrounding forests and later to provide care for captive elephants, including those used for forest operations. The camp has functioned as a training and conservation centre for elephants under the forest department's management.

The camp reflects Karnataka's long tradition of elephant care and mahout culture, showcasing the relationship between mahouts and elephants. It serves as an educational centre for visitors to learn about elephant conservation, forest management and wildlife protection in the Malnad region.