Jungle Safari Returns to Indravati Tiger Reserve from November 1
Jungle safari is returning to the Indravati Tiger Reserve in Bastar after about three decades. The reserve in Chhattisgarh, long inaccessible to tourists because of Naxal activity, will open for safari visits from 1 November 2026. Visitors will get the chance to watch tigers, leopards, wild buffaloes and other rare wildlife in their natural habitat.
Situated in Bijapur district, the reserve is seen as a key step toward boosting tourism, protecting wildlife and creating local jobs. The end of left-wing extremism, announced on 31 March 2026, has created new hopes for security and development in the area, and the forest department has completed preparations to open the reserve to visitors.
A 9-kilometre safari route launches the first phase
For the first phase, the forest department has demarcated a safari route of about 9 kilometres. It begins at Ulloor village and runs to Undlapharti. The department has initially provided four gypsy vehicles to take visitors through the forest.
Each round costs Rs 2,000. Six local youths have been trained to guide visitors through the biodiversity of the forest and the features of its wildlife. They will serve as guides and safari vehicle drivers.
Tigers, leopards, gaurs and rare birds
The Indravati Tiger Reserve is rich in biodiversity. Besides tigers and leopards, it is home to wild buffaloes, gaurs, chitals and otters. Rare bird species, including the Indian vulture and the white-backed vulture, are another highlight.
According to the forest department, the safari will be conducted with attention to wildlife presence and their natural movements. The initiative aims not only to increase tourism but also to conserve wildlife and safeguard their natural habitat.
Large reserve with a long history
The reserve spans 2,799.07 square kilometres, including a core area of 1,258.37 square kilometres and a buffer area of 1,540.70 square kilometres. It ranks fourth among India's large tiger reserves in terms of area.
The reserve was declared a national park in 1981 and came under Project Tiger in 1982-83. For many years, Naxal activity affected regular forest department access and tourism across a major part of the area.
Local culture and livelihoods in focus
A refreshment centre designed around traditional mud houses has been set up near the safari gate, where visitors can enjoy local cuisine and the rural atmosphere.
The project also aims to involve local tribal communities. Villagers may find work and self-employment as guides, drivers, food providers, homestay hosts and artisans. Tourism is expected to draw wider attention to Bastar's tribal art, culture and traditional products.
Plans for more vehicles and new safari areas
Officials said the number of vehicles could be increased based on early experience, visitor numbers and the growth of tourism. Plans are also in place to start safaris in other parts of the Indravati Tiger Reserve.
Tourism will be carefully regulated, with priority given to wildlife protection and the sensitivity of the forest. Designated routes and visitor numbers will be monitored closely.
The Indravati safari is more than an outdoor experience. It marks the return of tourism to a region where security conditions kept its natural wealth out of sight for decades. The challenge ahead is to protect this valuable forest while establishing Bastar as a prominent eco-tourism destination in India.