Wildlife safaris have officially resumed for guests at The Serai Bandipur and The Serai Kabini, effective 22 February 2026, following the Ministry’s circular permitting reopening under revised operational guidelines.
Safari operations are currently running at 50 percent capacity, with existing timings unchanged. Online bookings remain temporarily suspended, and reservations are being coordinated offline in consultation with safari operators and Jungle Lodges & Resorts.
The reopening follows the Supreme Court of India’s November 2025 directive, National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) norms, and the Karnataka Forest Department’s February 2026 notification. Drivers have been instructed to maintain regulated vehicle distances to minimise ecological disturbance.
During the closure period, a technical committee constituted by the State Board for Wildlife conducted a carrying capacity audit, resulting in defined daily visitor limits aimed at protecting sensitive habitats.
Additional conservation measures implemented include:
Strengthened boundary monitoring camps
Community-led “Forest Friends” initiatives
Removal of invasive Lantana camara to restore grasslands
Servicing of artificial waterholes ahead of summer
Completion of fire line works to mitigate forest fire risks
Mobile phone restrictions during safaris continue, in line with revised visitor guidelines, to reduce ecological impact and enhance wildlife immersion.
Saibal Sen, Chief Operating Officer, The Serai Resorts, said the group remains committed to responsible tourism that balances guest experience with conservation priorities.
The Serai Resorts confirmed it will continue coordinating with forest authorities, conservation experts and local communities to ensure structured and sustainable wildlife tourism in Karnataka.
