Karnataka fully reopens Bandipur, Nagarahole jungle safaris after capacity assessment

Jungle safari operations at Karnataka's Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves will fully resume, following a technical committee's assessment of the protected forests' visitor capacity. The state government accepted the committee's report and has directed the Forest Department to manage safari services under a regulated framework.

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Karnataka holds immense potential in eco-tourism and has consistently followed a model of sustainable tourism which generates local employment and livelihood opportunities while boosting the local economy.

Safari operations were suspended in November 2025 after a series of human-wildlife conflict incidents, including tiger and leopard attacks in nearby villages. Operations partially resumed in February this year with reduced vehicle numbers and operating hours. The final decision on restoring full operations was pending the technical committee's assessment.

The government stated that Karnataka prioritizes eco-tourism, balancing conservation with economic opportunities. This model aims to generate local employment and livelihood, boost the local economy, and safeguard ecological integrity. Sustainable tourism is seen as a way to support conservation efforts and enhance visitor experiences.

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Directions have been issued to operate the jungle safari in a regulated manner, in line with the Committee’s recommendations.

The previous restrictions significantly impacted businesses linked to wildlife tourism. Industry representatives estimated daily losses of approximately ₹3 crore for around 35 resorts near Bandipur and Nagarahole. The curbs also affected about 8,000 individuals employed directly or indirectly in the sector. Some tourism operators noted that visitors had shifted to safari destinations in neighboring Kerala and Tamil Nadu during the period of restricted operations.

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The state remains committed to the eco tourism model that safeguards ecological integrity and ensures that tourism contributes positively to conservation, local livelihoods, and visitor experience.