Bandipur, Nagarahole tiger safari: Hiked rates in Karnataka from September 1

From September 1, safari fees in Karnataka's two most renowned tiger reserves, Bandipur and Nagarahole, have surged by approximately 40 percent. A typical bus tour now costs Rs 1,000, while a child's fare has jumped from Rs 350 to Rs 500. Additionally, camera and vehicle parking charges have been revised, with 18 percent GST applicable to all.

Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy explained that the hike extends beyond mere cost. The safari duration and distance covered have been significantly expanded. While the original safaris lasted 1.5 hours over 15-20 km, the new ones now run for 2.5 to 3 hours and cover 30-35 km. Moreover, vehicles that once made two trips a day will now operate only once, effectively doubling the trip duration while halving the number of trips.

Forest authorities disclosed that the revision was necessitated by growing fuel costs and increased salaries for outsourced staff. The revised rates, approved in July, were originally planned to take effect in August but were postponed to September by the forest department. Bandipur and Nagarahole, two of the ten locations where the forest department operates safaris, are the only reserves affected by this fare revision.

Safari operations at Bandipur and Nagarahole resumed in July, after being halted on November 7, 2025, due to public protests following a surge in human-animal conflict in villages adjacent to the reserves. In February, the government permitted a partial, phased resumption, shortening operating hours and halving the number of vehicles permitted inside the parks.

Safari rides in Karnataka's tiger reserves generate annual revenue of Rs 25 crore to Rs 27 crore. The government mandates that 35 percent of the income be sent to local communities. Safari timings are from 6 am to 9.30 am in the morning and 3 pm to 6.30 pm in the afternoon. Bus safaris cost Rs 1,000 for adults and Rs 500 for children, while jeep safaris are Rs 1,500 for adults and Rs 750 for children, with cameras with more than 200mm priced at Rs 1,500.