Winter Wildlife Care at Mukundpur White Tiger Safari: Special Protocols Ensure Tiger Health and Boost Tourism

Published on December 23, 2025

As temperatures drop across Madhya Pradesh, the Mukundpur White Tiger Safari has implemented special winter protocols to ensure the well-being of its residents during the cold months. Situated in the heart of India’s Vindhya region, the safari, which is known for housing the world’s first white tigers, has taken meticulous measures to adapt to the winter chill and provide both wildlife and tourists with a truly unforgettable experience.

Winter Care for the Tigers: Diet and Comfort Adjustments

At Mukundpur Safari, the winter season means increased care for the resident tigers. Special dietary adjustments have been made for the white tigers, including adults Raghu, Tipu, and Sonam and a cub, as well as for other animals in the safari. The white tigers are now receiving 12 kilograms of buffalo meat daily, an increase from the 10 kilograms they are fed during warmer months. This increased protein intake helps maintain their body heat and energy levels in the face of the harsh winter temperatures.

In addition to the diet, specialized measures are being implemented to protect the tigers from the chill. Heat lamps and heaters are placed near the enclosures, providing a warm environment for the animals. Green sheets are used to shield the big cats from wind and dew, ensuring they remain comfortable. Straw bedding is laid on the floors of their enclosures to provide extra insulation. These changes aim to not only keep the tigers comfortable but also promote their overall health during the colder months.

Special Attention for Other Wildlife

The care at Mukundpur Safari extends beyond the tigers to include the other animals housed within the facility. The bears are given kheer, a traditional sweet dish, to provide extra warmth, while the exotic birds in the walk-in aviary are given boiled eggs and a special mixture of grains, including sunflower seeds and sesame. These grains are considered to have a warming effect, helping the birds stay active and healthy through the winter.

Reptiles such as pythons and snakes also benefit from the safari’s winter protocols. Dedicated heating systems have been installed to keep the reptile enclosures warm and prevent the cold-blooded creatures from becoming inactive. Additionally, the bird enclosures are elevated and lined with grass, straw, and wood to protect the animals from the chill of the ground. These meticulous adjustments ensure that all species, whether warm-blooded or cold-blooded, are kept in a safe and healthy environment throughout the winter.

Sustaining Herbivores and Other Species

The herbivorous animals at Mukundpur Safari, including the deer, are given extra care during the winter months. They receive an abundance of fresh vegetables, fruits, and jaggery, which is believed to help maintain their energy levels in cold weather. To ensure they stay healthy and active, the deer are provided with vitamin supplements, which boost their immune systems and improve overall wellbeing.

In the mornings, the deer are seen basking in the warmth of the sun, soaking up the natural heat. However, they are protected from the cold at night, when temperatures are lower. This balanced care ensures that all species at Mukundpur Safari remain in optimal health, allowing them to thrive in the winter months.

A Seasonal Surge in Tourism

The implementation of these special winter protocols coincides with the peak tourist season in Madhya Pradesh. The Mukundpur White Tiger Safari expects a significant increase in visitors, with an estimated 50,000 tourists expected on New Year’s Day alone. The pleasant weather, coupled with the lush green landscapes and the more active wildlife, attracts visitors from across India. Tourists from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar are particularly drawn to the safari, where they can witness the magnificent white tigers roaming freely in their natural habitat.

This surge in tourism provides a much-needed economic boost to the surrounding areas. Hotels, eateries, and local transport services in the Vindhya region are experiencing an influx of business, and new job opportunities are being created. The region is benefiting not only from tourism directly associated with the safari but also from increased interest in local attractions, including the nearby Sharda Temple in Maihar and picturesque waterfalls.

Visitor Experience: A Thrilling Winter Adventure

The winter season at Mukundpur has become a thrilling experience for tourists. Local visitors, like Aditya Sharma from Bhopal, have expressed their excitement about the verdant surroundings and the opportunity to see tigers roaming openly in the safari. “It’s thrilling to see the tigers in such a natural setting, especially during the winter months when they are more active,” Sharma commented.

Families visiting the safari have praised the winter conditions, with many finding it a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages. Neha Verma, a tourist from Prayagraj, noted how the pleasant conditions and informative guides made the visit more enjoyable. “It felt very safe for families, and the guides provided a lot of valuable information about the wildlife,” Verma said.

Mukundpur: A Unique Wildlife Destination

Mukundpur, located near Rewa, is not only the world’s first white tiger safari but also a landmark in wildlife conservation and ecotourism. Spanning 250 acres, the safari has made significant strides in breeding and protecting the rare white tigers. The safari’s story traces back to Maharaja Martand Singh Judev, who captured the original white tiger, Mohan, in the 1950s. Since opening in 2016, Mukundpur has attracted tourists from all over the country, establishing itself as one of Madhya Pradesh’s premier wildlife destinations.

Alongside the safari, an ecotourism park has been developed to offer adventure activities. Visitors can also explore the nearby sites, including the ancient Sharda Temple in Maihar and several stunning waterfalls. These attractions further enhance Mukundpur’s status as a must-visit destination in the region.

Looking Ahead: A Promising Winter Season

Officials at Mukundpur White Tiger Safari are expecting a bumper winter season, with tourism numbers nearly doubling compared to other times of the year. This surge is not only expected to bring in revenue but also to reinforce the safari’s role as a key player in the region’s ecotourism landscape. With the special winter care protocols in place, the welfare of the animals is being prioritized, ensuring that the Mukundpur Safari continues to be a top-tier wildlife experience for years to come.

Ensuring Animal Welfare Amidst Winter’s Challenges

As temperatures plummet across Madhya Pradesh, the Mukundpur White Tiger Safari has gone above and beyond to ensure the comfort and health of its animal residents. From tailored diets to innovative heating solutions, the safari is providing an environment where its wildlife can thrive despite the winter chill. This commitment to animal welfare, combined with the surge in tourism, makes Mukundpur a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourism lovers alike.

The winter measures at Mukundpur showcase the safari’s ongoing dedication to wildlife conservation, ensuring the long-term sustainability of this unique destination. With its combination of dedicated care for animals and the economic benefits it brings to the local community, Mukundpur continues to serve as a model for ecotourism in India.