Karnataka Restores Jungle Safaris at Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves

The Karnataka Government announced on Friday the full restoration of jungle safaris at the Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves. The decision, announced by Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, comes after safaris were suspended in November 2025 following human-tiger conflicts in the region that resulted in the deaths of three farmers and injured another.

The full reopening of the park excursions is based on a scientific assessment of carrying capacity conducted by a technical committee of experts and officials. According to a statement from the Chief Minister's office, the state government has accepted the committee's report and issued directions to operate the safaris in a regulated manner, in line with the recommendations.

Shivakumar, who also holds the Forest, Ecology, and Environment portfolio, stated that the state remains committed to an eco-tourism model that safeguards ecological integrity while ensuring that tourism contributes positively to conservation, local livelihoods, and visitor experience.

"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," the statement from the Chief Minister's office said.

The suspension of safari operations in November 2025 was prompted by consecutive tiger attacks in the area. Following the suspension, stakeholders in the tourism industry urged the government to lift the ban.

In response to these demands, the Karnataka State Wildlife Board recommended the establishment of an expert committee in January to study the carrying capacity of safari vehicles in both reserves. An interim report released in February had initially recommended resuming operations in a phased manner, which led to a temporary deployment of only 50 percent of the safari vehicles and staff previously in use before the November 2025 suspension.

With the latest decision, the government has transitioned to a full restoration of the safaris. Shivakumar emphasized the educational value of the excursions, stating that every visitor should return with a deeper appreciation for conserving natural heritage.