Jim Corbett National Park Welcomes Back Elephant Safaris After Years, Boosting Eco-Tourism Like Never Before

Published on December 23, 2025

Jim Corbett National Park, the first and one of the most famous tiger reserves in India, has given a huge announcement to the wildlife lovers all over the world: the comeback of the elephant safaris after six years’ break. The Corbett Tiger Reserve in Uttarakhand reopened the activity, which was loved by many, just at the beginning of the winter tourist season, so both Indian and Foreign tourists are now coming to the park in order to see its diverse life forms in a new manner. The elephants are very movable and this is not only going to please the tourists but also wildlife will become more active and easily seen.

Elephant Safaris Add New Dimensions to Corbett Tiger Reserve

The decision to revive elephant safaris at Corbett comes after years of waiting, driven by an increasing demand for slower, more intimate wildlife experiences. The administration of Corbett Tiger Reserve, under the direction of the Chief Wildlife Warden of Dehradun, has successfully brought back this treasured service, which had been absent for nearly six years due to administrative and environmental concerns.

Elephant safaris provide a unique opportunity for tourists to witness the park’s wildlife up close, offering a more serene and personal encounter with the natural landscape compared to traditional vehicle safaris. This service is expected to boost tourism, as many visitors prefer the more relaxed pace that elephant-back safaris allow. The park administration is also hopeful that this revival will reignite interest in eco-tourism and wildlife conservation, two key pillars for the long-term sustainability of Corbett National Park.

Key Zones for Elephant Safaris: Dhikala and Bijrani

Currently, the elephant safaris operate in two of the park’s major zones: Dhikala and Bijrani, both offering spectacular views of the park’s varied landscapes. The Dhikala zone is particularly famous for its breathtaking vistas of the Ramganga River, sal forests, and open grasslands. Visitors here are treated to an authentic safari experience, where the slow pace of the elephant allows for better visibility of elusive wildlife species and birds that are often missed during faster vehicle rides.

In Dhikala, two elephants are deployed across two designated routes, operating both in the early morning and evening shifts. These safaris promise unforgettable experiences as guests encounter a vast array of wildlife, from tigers and elephants to various bird species and forest inhabitants. In the Bijrani zone, one elephant traverses two routes, providing a similar immersive experience. This zone is slightly more rugged and dense, providing tourists with a close look at the varied habitats of the park, from its lush forests to its tranquil water bodies.

The new safari service, with each ride lasting around two hours, is specifically designed for those seeking a deeper connection with nature. As per Park Warden Binder Pal Singh, the tickets for these safaris are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the park reception. The prices have been fixed at ₹1,000 for Indian tourists and ₹3,000 for foreign visitors, with up to five passengers allowed per elephant. Children below the age of five can enjoy the safari free of charge, a welcome gesture for families with young children.

Tourism Revival and Broader Impact

The revival of elephant safaris is not just an exciting prospect for wildlife enthusiasts; it also signals a broader push to revive tourism in Uttarakhand, which has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions on certain eco-tourism activities. The decision to reintroduce these safaris is expected to draw large numbers of both domestic and international tourists, who will now have a chance to experience Corbett’s unparalleled wildlife from a new perspective.

While the elephant safaris are undoubtedly the highlight, other safari experiences at Corbett will also continue to attract large crowds. The reserve remains popular for jeep safaris, where visitors can explore additional zones like Jhirna, Dhela, and Marchula, all of which provide access to diverse wildlife and distinct landscapes. Jeep safaris are typically faster-paced and allow for greater coverage of the park’s sprawling terrain, including its dense forests and riverbanks.

The revival of elephant safaris will likely create a balanced dynamic between vehicle safaris and the more tranquil elephant-back experience, offering visitors multiple options for how they wish to explore the park.

A Controversial Yet Welcome Return

The decision to bring back elephant safaris has not been without controversy. While tourists and the park administration are thrilled about the renewed offering, conservationists have raised concerns over the welfare of the elephants used in safaris. These concerns primarily focus on the ethics of using animals for tourist purposes and the physical and mental well-being of the elephants. As with many similar wildlife tourism practices, the welfare of animals is always a point of debate, but the park administration has assured that the elephants are well cared for, and all welfare guidelines are strictly adhered to.

A New Era for Corbett National Park

The return of elephant safaris to Jim Corbett National Park marks a significant milestone in the park’s ongoing efforts to enhance tourism while preserving its natural heritage. With its abundant wildlife, lush greenery, and unique experiences, Corbett continues to be one of India’s most cherished travel destinations. The elephant safaris will offer a fresh perspective for visitors, drawing tourists from all corners of the globe to witness the park’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

The world-famous tiger sanctuary will not only offer visitors thrilling animal sighting but also an exceptional way of connecting with nature through a more relaxed manner, thereby leading to a better comprehension of the ecosystem with its sheen and shadows. Tourists at Corbett, whether riding on an elephant or enjoying a jeep safari, will have their hearts left with a strong impression, and for a big percentage of them, it would be the start of a sweet love affair with Indian wildlife and eco-tourism that lasts for years.