The Serai Resorts has announced the resumption of wildlife safaris for guests staying at The Serai Bandipur and The Serai Kabini. Safari operations officially resumed on 22 February 2026 following government approval and revised operational guidelines issued by forest and wildlife authorities.
The reopening comes after a temporary suspension that allowed authorities to review conservation protocols and ensure responsible tourism practices in the region’s sensitive wildlife habitats.
The two resorts are located near Bandipur National Park and Nagarhole National Park, two of South India’s most prominent wildlife destinations known for their tiger populations, diverse ecosystems, and rich biodiversity.
Bandipur and Nagarhole Safari Operations Resume with Capacity Limits
Following the reopening announcement, safari operations have resumed at 50 percent capacity to ensure controlled visitor movement and minimise environmental impact within protected forest zones.
Safari timings remain unchanged, allowing guests to continue experiencing both morning and evening wildlife drives across the national parks. However, online safari bookings are temporarily unavailable, and reservations are currently being coordinated through offline channels in consultation with safari operators and Jungle Lodges & Resorts.
This temporary system aims to streamline visitor management while authorities closely monitor the reopening phase.
All safari vehicles and drivers are required to strictly follow directives issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority and the Supreme Court of India, particularly those outlined in the November 2025 ruling related to tourism activities inside tiger reserves.
Drivers have also been instructed to maintain safe distances between vehicles during safari drives to prevent congestion in wildlife corridors and reduce disturbance to animals.
Wildlife Tourism Guidelines for Sustainable Safaris
The reopening follows extensive coordination between the resorts, forest authorities, and conservation experts to ensure safaris operate responsibly under revised environmental protocols.
A technical committee established by the State Board for Wildlife conducted a carrying capacity assessment during the closure period. The review helped define daily visitor limits aimed at protecting the fragile ecosystems of Bandipur and Nagarhole.
Additional conservation measures implemented during the closure period include strengthening forest boundary monitoring camps, launching community-led “Forest Friends” initiatives, removing the invasive plant species Lantana camara to restore natural grasslands, servicing artificial waterholes ahead of the summer season, and completing fire line works to reduce forest fire risks.
These initiatives are designed to ensure that wildlife tourism continues without compromising the ecological balance of the national parks.
The updated safari guidelines also include restrictions on mobile phone usage during wildlife drives, encouraging visitors to experience the forest more mindfully while reducing potential disturbances to wildlife.
Responsible Wildlife Experiences at Serai Bandipur and Kabini
According to Saibal Sen, the reopening marks an important step for both tourism and conservation in Karnataka’s wildlife regions.
He emphasised that the resort group remains committed to responsible tourism practices that balance guest experiences with environmental protection and community engagement.
Sen noted that each safari represents more than a wildlife excursion; it is an opportunity for visitors to understand the importance of preserving natural habitats and supporting long-term conservation efforts.
Both Serai Bandipur and Serai Kabini have developed strong reputations for offering immersive wildlife experiences combined with luxury hospitality. Guests typically participate in guided jeep safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching experiences that provide deeper insights into the region’s biodiversity.
Bandipur and Nagarhole: Key Destinations for Wildlife Tourism
Located within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Bandipur and Nagarhole national parks are among India’s most significant wildlife landscapes.
The forests are home to tigers, elephants, leopards, sloth bears, gaur, and hundreds of bird species, attracting nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers from across the world.
Bandipur National Park forms part of the larger Nilgiri Tiger Reserve landscape, connecting with other protected forests such as Mudumalai National Park and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Meanwhile, Nagarhole National Park, also known as Rajiv Gandhi National Park, is renowned for its scenic Kabini backwaters and dense teak forests.
Sustainable Wildlife Tourism in Karnataka
The resumption of safaris reflects a broader effort to ensure tourism within protected areas evolves responsibly.
By implementing capacity controls, ecological restoration initiatives, and visitor guidelines, authorities and hospitality operators are working together to create a balanced tourism model that benefits both wildlife and local communities.
As safari tourism gradually returns, destinations such as Bandipur and Kabini are expected to continue attracting travellers seeking nature-focused, immersive travel experiences in India.
The reopening of safaris at The Serai Bandipur and The Serai Kabini signals a positive step forward for wildlife tourism in Karnataka, offering travellers a chance to reconnect with nature while supporting conservation-led tourism practices.
