Safari Resumes after the BAN

🐯     Nagarhole & Kabini Safari Reopens

                    After Temporary Ban 

                       Latest 2026 Update

Great news for wildlife lovers! Safari operations at Nagarhole Tiger Reserve and Bandipur Tiger Reserve have officially resumed from February 19, 2026, after a temporary suspension that began on November 7, 2025.
The Karnataka Forest Department had paused safari operations following a series of unfortunate tiger-related incidents and rising human-wildlife conflict near forest fringe areas. The decision was taken purely in the interest of public safety and wildlife management.
Now, safaris are reopening in a carefully planned and controlled manner to ensure both visitor safety and conservation balance.

🐾 How Safari Operations Are RestartingSafari services in Nagarhole and Bandipur are being resumed in phases, with strict monitoring and new safety measures in place.
Here’s what visitors should know:

• Safari hours are currently reduced in the initial phase.
  
• Nagarhole safaris are operating for approximately 4 hours per session.
  
• Bandipur safaris are operating for approximately 5 hours per session.
  
• Only 50% of the usual safari vehicles are being allowed inside the reserve.
  
• All safari vehicles are now equipped with GPS tracking systems and dashcams for better monitoring and transparency.
  

These measures are designed to maintain a safe and sustainable wildlife tourism experience while minimizing disturbance to animals.

📌 Why Were Safaris Suspended in 2025?In November 2025, safari operations were temporarily halted after three fatal tiger attacks occurred in forest fringe villages near Nagarhole and Bandipur. The incidents raised serious safety concerns, prompting immediate action from the Karnataka government and forest officials.
While the decision impacted tourism activities in Kabini and surrounding areas, it was taken to prioritize human safety and allow authorities to reassess protection measures.
Local safari guides, lodge owners, and eco-tourism operators strongly advocated for reopening — emphasizing the importance of regulated wildlife tourism in supporting local livelihoods and conservation awareness.

🌿 Conservation & Legal ConsiderationsThe reopening of safaris was not a simple decision. There were legal discussions, conservation debates, and careful reviews by wildlife committees before permissions were granted.
Authorities have evaluated:

• Visitor carrying capacity
  
• Animal movement patterns
  
• Buffer zone safety
  
• Updated monitoring protocols
  

The goal is clear: balance tourism, conservation, and community safety in one of South India’s most iconic tiger landscapes.

🐘 Travel Advisory for Kabini & Nagarhole Visitors (2026)If you are planning a wildlife trip to Kabini or Nagarhole, here are some important tips:
✔ Book your safari slots well in advance — vehicle numbers are currently limited.
✔ Follow all forest department instructions strictly during the safari.
✔ Remember that wildlife safaris are conducted inside a natural tiger habitat — safety protocols are in place for a reason.
✔ Safari timings and vehicle numbers may be adjusted depending on forest department assessments.

Why This Matters for Wildlife Tourism in KabiniThe reopening of safaris at Nagarhole and Bandipur is a positive step for Karnataka wildlife tourism. Kabini remains one of India’s top destinations for tiger sightings, elephant herds, and rich biodiversity.
With enhanced safety systems like GPS tracking and controlled vehicle entry, visitors can now experience wildlife more responsibly and sustainably.
For the latest safari updates, bookings, and Kabini stay options, stay connected with KabiniWildlife.com.