Karnataka Reopens Tiger Safaris After Suspension

The Karnataka government announced the complete restoration of jungle safaris in the Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves on Friday. These popular park excursions had been suspended since November 2025 following a series of human-tiger conflicts that resulted in farmer fatalities.

The decision to reopen was made after a thorough assessment by a government-appointed technical committee of experts and officials. This committee evaluated the effective carrying capacity of the reserves. Their report, now accepted by the state government, guides the regulated operation of the safaris.

Karnataka emphasizes its commitment to eco-tourism, a model that balances conservation with local livelihood generation and economic growth. The government aims to ensure that tourism positively contributes to wildlife conservation and visitor experiences. Stakeholders in the tourism industry had urged for the ban to be lifted, and the State Wildlife Board had previously recommended an expert study on safari vehicle capacity.