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There is tremendous enthusiasm among the tourists due to the return of elephant safari in Corbett National Park of Uttarakhand after 6 years. Safari of two hours each has started in Dhikala and Bijrani zones, tickets will be available on ‘first come-first serve’ basis. After the ban in 2018, now the thrill has returned with strict rules.
After a long wait of six years, elephant safari has started again in Jim Corbett Tiger Reserve located in Ramnagar, Uttarakhand. This decision has filled new enthusiasm among the tourists from India and abroad in the winter tourist season. After approval in the June 2024 meeting of the State Wildlife Board, it has been restarted after completion of departmental formalities. This step is not only a big news for adventure lovers, but has also brought relief for people associated with local tourism.
Dhikala Zone is considered to be the most exciting and favorite tourist area of Corbett. Here safari has been started with the help of two elephants in both morning and evening shifts. Two different routes have been set up for the tourists, where they can have a close look at the Ramganga River, dense forests, open grasslands and many rare wildlife. Experiencing the jungle from the back of an elephant is considered more peaceful, safe and natural than jeep safari, that is why this safari is opening new doors of adventure.
Safari is being conducted on two different routes in Bijrani zone of Corbett. This safari lasts for about two hours, in which tourists get a unique experience of the beauty of the forest, the behavior of wildlife and their natural habitat. The dense forest and peaceful environment of Bijrani is considered very suitable for elephant safari. Here tourists also get a wonderful opportunity to see wild elephants, deer, birds and many other creatures from close range without any sound.
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According to Corbett Park Warden Binder Pal Singh, tickets for elephant safari will be available at the reception center of the park on ‘first come-first serve’ basis. The fee for Indian tourists has been kept at ₹1000 per person and for foreign tourists it has been kept at ₹3000 per person. A maximum of five people (including children) can sit on an elephant. No fee will be charged for children below five years of age. The duration of the safari has been fixed at two hours. All these arrangements have been made keeping in mind the forest safety and the convenience of tourists.
In 2018, the Uttarakhand High Court had banned the commercial use of elephants under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1960 and Wildlife Protection Act 1972. After this the elephant safari stopped completely. This closure had a major impact on tour guides, mahouts, tourism traders and the local community. For years the demand for a sensitive and secure system continued to arise. Ultimately, the State Wildlife Board allowed the resumption of safari in a limited form in 2024 with rules and safety provisions.
There is a festive atmosphere in Corbett area with the return of elephant safari. This is a good employment opportunity for mahouts and guides, while tourists are able to feel the real heartbeat of the forest closely. Elephant safari is being developed as a form of tourism, where safari is being conducted keeping in mind the safety, comfort and health of elephants. According to the Forest Department, all safari routes are being monitored so that environmental balance, wildlife conservation and tourism activities can operate normally.
