PATNA: In an exciting development, Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) is set to reopen its Jungle Safari for tourists on January 1 after an eight-year hiatus. The Forest Department has initiated bookings for guest houses as people gear up for picnics and forest tours.
Special arrangements are in place to accommodate the influx of visitors during the New Year, with a range of accommodation options available. The Forest Department has constructed two tree huts, priced at Rs 1000 each, and seven tent houses, available at Rs 700. Additionally, there are six bamboo huts, with non-AC and AC options costing Rs 1000 and Rs 1500, respectively. Two suites are also available at Rs 1700. VTR offers 26 AC and non-AC rooms, ranging from Rs 700 to Rs 1000. Private hotels contribute 45 rooms, with rates varying from Rs 1500 to Rs 5000 per night.
For those planning a visit to Valmiki Tiger Reserve, limited rooms remain available in Manguraha, Kotraha, and Gobardhana, all within Valmiki Nagar. Notably, the Forest Department has canceled the leave of forest workers, ensuring increased patrolling to safeguard wildlife. A ban on playing sound instruments in the forest has also been imposed.
Jungle Safari, which was typically closed on January 1, will remain open this year to cater to the surge of tourists. Forest Conservator Dr. Nesha Mani expressed the department’s commitment to providing the safari experience to visitors arriving for the New Year.
The Forest Department is fully prepared for the anticipated increase in tourists, having canceled the leave of forest personnel until January 5. Last year, over 50,000 tourists flocked to Valmiki Nagar during the New Year festivities, and the numbers are expected to rise further this year.
Tourists can explore various attractions in Valmiki Nagar, including Valmiki Ashram, Kauleshwar, Jatashankar, Nar Devi Temple, Eco Park, Gandak Barrage, Jhula Bridge, Rafting of Gandak, Jungle Safari, Cycle Jungle Safari, and Triveni Sangam. The picturesque views of the forest, mountains, and river add to the allure of this international tourist destination.
Bookings for guest houses are already filled until January 2, and private hotels are fully booked from December 30 to January 2. Tourists have also made substantial hotel reservations in Nepal, anticipating a large crowd in the neighboring areas until January 3.
As Valmiki Tiger Reserve opens its doors for Jungle Safari on New Year, the region awaits the arrival of enthusiastic tourists keen to explore the natural wonders and wildlife that this renowned reserve has to offer.
