Bettiah/Patna: Tourism at Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve will come to a complete halt from July 1 to September 30 this year, as authorities implement an annual closure to protect wildlife during the critical monsoon season and ensure visitor safety.
All activities—including jungle safaris, cycle safaris and Gandak motorboat tours—will be suspended in line with guidelines from the National Tiger Conservation Authority, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and the Government of Bihar.
“The monsoon is a sensitive time, not just because of the breeding season for tigers and other animals, but also due to the heavy rains that leave forest tracks impassable and rivers dangerously swollen,” said Dr Neshamani K, Conservator of Forests and Field Director of Valmiki Tiger Reserve. “Wildlife needs calm and safe surroundings at this time.”
Safety concerns are particularly acute around the Gandak River, where high water levels and strong currents make boat safaris hazardous. Officials stressed that the temporary closure is essential for the wellbeing of both wildlife and tourists.
The Valmiki reserve has seen a surge in visitors in recent years. Tourist numbers rose from 92,264 in 2021-22 to a record 4,80,624 in 2024-25, including 38 international visitors. Jungle safaris alone attracted nearly 28,000 tourists in the past year.
Dr Neshamani said that tourism activities will resume from October, with several new attractions planned. “We’re introducing new trail routes, nature walks, birdwatching points, treehouse stays and viewing decks to enhance the visitor experience,” he said. Improvements are also underway to make the reserve’s online booking system more accessible, helping both domestic and international tourists plan their trips in advance.
The Valmiki Tiger Reserve, located in Bihar’s West Champaran district near the Nepal border, is renowned for its biodiversity and as a key habitat for the endangered Bengal tiger.
