Rajgir / Patna : Tourists flocking to Rajgir after the Holi festivities are facing mounting frustration as overcrowding, mismanagement, and technical glitches leave them disappointed. The historic town, known for its natural beauty and wildlife attractions, has witnessed an unprecedented surge of domestic and international visitors. However, the experience is turning sour for many.
Queues Start at 4 am, But Tickets Remain Elusive
The Glass Skywalk Bridge in the Nature Safari, a prime attraction, is drawing enormous crowds. Keen to experience the thrill of walking on the glass bridge, tourists begin queuing as early as 4 am. Yet, many leave empty-handed as tickets run out before they can reach the counter.
Online ticket booking, which could have eased the burden, has been unavailable for the past two weeks due to technical issues. Rishikesh Kumar, a ranger at Nature Safari, confirmed the glitch, stating, “We are working on fixing the problem, and we expect the system to be operational within two to three days.”
Attractions Closed, Experience Rushed
Those who manage to secure tickets are greeted with more disappointment inside. The much-anticipated suspension bridge, a major highlight of the safari, remains closed for maintenance. Adding to the frustration, tourists are hurried off the glass bridge by guards, allowing little time to soak in the experience.
Hemant, a visitor from Chhapra, expressed his frustration: “We stood in line for three hours to get tickets, only to find the main attractions closed. Even on the glass bridge, we were rushed off before we could properly enjoy it.”
Price Gouging at the Cafeteria Adds to Discontent
Tourists are also feeling the pinch at the zoo safari cafeteria, where food and beverages are being sold at double the market price. Many complain that the steep prices add an unnecessary financial burden after already spending on high-priced tickets.
Maintenance Delays and Empty Promises
The suspension bridge closure is another sore point. District Forest Officer (DFO) Rajkumar assured that an expert team from Kolkata has been called to carry out the repairs, which are expected to be completed within 15 days.
Tourists Demand Better Facilities or Lower Prices
Visitors are calling on the authorities to either reduce ticket prices or enhance the quality of services. Nishant Kumar, a tourist from Patna, voiced the sentiments of many: “We put in so much effort to get tickets, but the facilities don’t justify the cost. Either the prices should be reduced or the services improved.”
