Chamarajanagar
The Bandipur Tiger Reserve in  district witnessed an unprecedented surge in tourist numbers, attracting a record 1.4 lakh visitors in 2023.
The reserve generated a revenue of Rs 13.6 crore through various channels, including wildlife safaris, cottage rentals, entry fees, and other sources. Initiatives such as introducing insurance coverage for tourists on forest vehicle safaris and the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023 have contributed to the boost in eco-tourism in the region.
The insurance cover for tourists provides Rs 1 crore in coverage towards any risk and untoward incidents faced by them,with each tourist receiving coverage of Rs 5 lakh.
Apart from these, beautification of the cottage and dormitory area (old ticket safari counter) with aesthetic look with pergolas, wooden walkways and sitting areas are all attracting a large number of tourists. The shifting of the safari counter to Melukamanahalli and beautification of forest martyrs’ memorial has also attracted visitors.
Every day, about 600 to 700 visitors visit the wildlife park for safari according to forest department officials. The crowd is more during holidays and weekends. The number of visitors also went up during Christmas, year end and New Year celebrations.
Bandipur, which stretches to 1,020 sq km, houses an estimated 191 tigers, 202 leopards, 1,116 elephants, 41,000 deer, 7,500 sambar deers, 5,500 Indian gaurs and other animals attracts tourists for sightseeing throughout the year.
The department has initiated many measures to attract visitors and ensure their safety, Director Rameshkumar said. Besides empowering tribals living in the 53 tribal hamlets of the eco-sensitive zone, the department is conserving wild animals from the revenue generated by the reserve, he said.
