Tadoba tiger reserve records rise in online safari bookings

Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve recorded 3.76 lakh online safari bookings in 2025-26, reflecting rising tourist interest. Officials said new visitor-friendly reforms, improved online services, cashless systems and enhanced safari facilities have helped strengthen the reserve’s appeal as a leading wildlife tourism destination

Nagpur: The Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) in Maharashtra has reaffirmed its position as one of India’s premier wildlife destinations, recording 3.76 lakh online safari bookings in 2025-26, up from 3.67 lakh in the previous year, officials said.

Located in Chandrapur district, the reserve has introduced a series of visitor-friendly reforms to enhance transparency and enrich the safari experience, Field Director Prabhu Nath Shukla said in a release on Tuesday.

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Explaining the reasons for the surge in online safari bookings, he said a revamped official website now provides gate details and guidelines, along with an interactive ‘Tiger Talk’ chatbot for assistance, while safari rates and rules are prominently displayed to curb booking scams.

Operational changes include expanded access between core and buffer zones, mandatory online booking for full-day safaris, and the scrapping of camera fees. Tourists can now book up to two hours before safari time, a significant shift from the earlier 8 p.m. cut-off.

To improve the experience, each safari vehicle is equipped with a ‘Tadoba Diary’ and wildlife brochures, while souvenir shops promote local products. Cashless payments, QR-based feedback, and dedicated days for locals further reflect the reserve’s inclusive approach, the official said.

TATR has also engaged reputed institutions for scientific management and to study and improve tourism practices, besides increasing payments to guides and gypsy operators to ensure community welfare, he noted.

With these and other measures, TATR is striving to deliver a seamless and transparent wildlife tourism experience while keeping conservation at its core, the official added.