Beginning September 1, the cost of safaris at Karnataka’s leading tiger reserves, Bandipur and Nagarahole, has increased by approximately 40%. A standard bus ride will now be priced at Rs 1,000.
The fare for children has seen a rise from Rs 350 to Rs 500, and there have also been adjustments to parking fees for vehicles and cameras, with an 18 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) applied uniformly.
On Tuesday, Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy announced that the changes extend beyond just pricing; the duration and distance of the safaris have also been notably enhanced. A forest official elaborated, stating, “Safaris that previously lasted 1.5 hours and covered a distance of 15-20 km will now run for 2.5 to 3 hours, spanning 30-35 km. Additionally, vehicles that used to operate twice a day will now make only a single trip, effectively doubling the duration while reducing the number of trips.”
Forest authorities indicated that the price adjustment was necessary due to escalating fuel costs and increased salaries for contracted staff. “Fuel prices have risen, and the wages for our outsourced personnel have also been updated,” the official explained.
The new pricing structure, which received approval in July, was initially slated to be implemented in August, but the forest department postponed it until September. While the department oversees safari operations at around 10 locations throughout the state, the fare increase specifically affects Bandipur and Nagarahole.
The updated rates will be applicable for safari services starting from Melukamanahalli in Bandipur and from the Kakanakote, Veeranahosahalli, and Nanachi entrances in Nagarahole.
Safari operations in Bandipur and Nagarahole resumed in July after being suspended on November 7, 2025, due to public protests linked to a significant rise in human-wildlife conflicts in nearby villages. In February, the government authorized a gradual resumption of services, which included reduced operating hours and a cut in the number of vehicles permitted in the parks by 50%.
Safari excursions in Karnataka’s tiger reserves contribute an annual revenue ranging from Rs 25 crore to Rs 27 crore, with the government stipulating that 35% of this revenue must be allocated to local communities.
Cameras with lenses exceeding 200mm will incur a fee of Rs 1,500.
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