At Bandipur Tiger Reserve: Tourists who want to visit the Bandipur Tiger Reserve in Karnataka will soon have to pay more for wildlife safaris and other tourism-related services. The Karnataka Forest Department has now appointed a revised fee structure for safari rides, private vehicle entry, camera use, as well as many other services at the popular wildlife reserve.
When the new rates take effect from September 1, 2026, they will apply to domestic and international visitors.
Higher charges for Safari services
According to the Forest Department, the new tariff will also raise bus and jeep safaris with a significant hike in the cost of bus and jeep safaris, which are among the most sought-after at Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
The revised pricing is part of a new tourism policy and will be applicable to all visitors from the date it is effective.
Sightseeing in the reserve is going to be very expensive; families and budget travellers will find it especially expensive.
Other Services Also Cost More
Apart from safari rides, the new fee structure also covers other services, including:
Entry charges for private vehicles. Camera usage fees for wildlife photography. Boating charges where possible. Forest Department guest houses and accommodation. Other tourism-related facilities that are operated by the Forest Department.
The charges were modified to help in the maintenance of tourism infrastructure and wildlife conservation activities in the reserve, officials said.
Impact on Tourists
Bandipur Tiger Reserve is one of Karnataka’s most visited wildlife destinations with thousands of nature enthusiasts every year. The hike in charges is going to put a strain on travel budgets, especially for families, student groups, and wildlife photographers.
More expensive for many visitors, but the Forest Department believes that the pricing will mean better visitor facilities and wildlife management and conservation efforts.
A Premier Wildlife Destination
In Chamarajanagar district, Bandipur Tiger Reserve is part of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and has many species of wildlife including:
Bengal tigers
Asian elephants
Leopards
Gaur (Indian bison)
Sloth bears
Deer species
More than 200 species of birds
The reserve remains one of India’s major eco-tourism destinations and is a key player in tiger conservation.
New Tariff to be implemented from September 1
Visitors who will be planning a trip after September 1, 2026, should check the updated fee structure before making bookings. For all approved tourism services operated by the Karnataka Forest Department, the new charges will apply.
We are trying to strengthen conservation programs through the new pricing,” said the state’s director of tourism and facilities in Bengaluru.
