Elephant Safari Resumes After Years in Corbett Tiger Reserve’s Bijrani & Dhikala Zones
Ramnagar, Uttarakhand — After a hiatus of nearly six to seven years, elephant-back safaris have once again begun in the Bijrani and Dhikala zones of the Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR), bringing renewed excitement among wildlife lovers and tourists this season.
Officials from the reserve confirmed that the traditional jungle experience of exploring deep forest areas on elephant back resumed recently, marking a significant revival of one of the reserve’s most cherished wildlife tourism offerings.
Return of a Classic Wildlife Experience in Corbett
The elephant safaris which had remained suspended for several years, are now operational again in two prime ecotourism zones — Dhikala, known for its dense forests and rich biodiversity and Bijrani popular for its grasslands and frequent wildlife sightings.
According to Corbett Tiger Reserve Director Saket Badola the safaris are being conducted in two daily shifts morning and evening and operate on a first-come first-served basis at the booking counters in each zone.
Initially, three elephants have been deployed for safari operations: two in Dhikala and one in Bijrani. Depending on tourist response and operational logistics, more elephants may be added to the program.
The Elephant safari in Corbett experience lasts approximately two hours and covers at least five kilometres of designated forest route, allowing visitors a close-up view of Corbett’s diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes while minimizing disturbance to the animals.
Each elephant can carry up to five tourists providing an intimate and immersive experience. Children below the age of five are permitted free of charge.
The reintroduction has been met with enthusiasm from tourists and wildlife enthusiasts many of whom welcomed the chance to explore remote forest trails and observe animals including elephants, deer, birds and occasionally elusive predators from a distinctive angle atop trained elephants.
Background of Elephant Safari in Corbett: Hiatus and Revival
Elephant safaris were halted across Corbett Tiger Reserve several years ago due to a combination of legal, regulatory and animal welfare concerns. The practise had been challenged under provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Wildlife (Protection) Act leading to a long pause in operations.
Although the Supreme Court lifted a nationwide ban on commercial elephant safaris in 2019, it took several more years for CTR authorities to finalize welfare protocols, operational guidelines and safety measures necessary for restarting the activity.
Corbett Tiger Reserve one of India’s oldest and most visited tiger reserves has a rich history of blending conservation with responsible wildlife tourism. The return of elephant safaris is expected to boost visitor engagement during the peak winter tourist season complement jeep and canter safaris and provide an alternative way to experience the timeless wilderness of the park.
Forest officials have emphasized that the safaris will operate only on designated routes and under strict guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of both animals and visitors.
