Archive · 15 Jan 2026
Forest Fires and Safari Bans Impact Wildlife Tourism
Forest fires and human-wildlife conflicts are causing big problems for wildlife tourism in Karnataka.
The government has temporarily banned trekking in some areas to prevent fires.
This ban is in places like Kudremukh National Park and other wildlife sanctuaries.
The ban started on January 14, 2026, and will last until the fire risk decreases.
Meanwhile, wildlife safaris in Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves have been suspended since November 2025.
This suspension is causing a lot of financial problems for local businesses and communities.
Many people depend on tourism for their jobs, and the suspension is putting these jobs at risk.
The Karnataka Eco Tourism Resorts Association (KETRA) is asking for a review of the safari ban, suggesting that it should be lifted in a phased manner with safety measures in place.
They argue that the ban is hurting both the economy and the local communities that depend on tourism.
Temporary trekking ban imposed in ecologically sensitive areas of Kudremukh Wildlife Division to prevent forest fires.
Suspension of wildlife safaris in Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves since November 2025 due to human-wildlife conflicts.
Trekking ban covers Kudremukh National Park, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, and Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary starting January 14, 2026.
Safari suspension is causing significant financial losses, with daily revenue losses of around ₹3 crore for the eco-tourism belt and ₹60-70 lakh for Jungle Lodges and Resorts and the Forest Department.
KETRA advocates for a science-based review and phased resumption of safaris with safety measures to mitigate the impact on livelihoods and the local economy.
- Who
- Forest Department, Karnataka Eco Tourism Resorts Association (KETRA), trekkers, tourists, local communities
- What
- Temporary trekking ban and suspension of wildlife safaris due to forest fire risks and human-wildlife conflicts
- When
- Trekking ban starts January 14, 2026; Safari suspension since 7-8 November 2025
- Where
- Kudremukh Wildlife Division (Kudremukh National Park, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary), Bandipur and Nagarahole Tiger Reserves
- Why
- To prevent forest fires and protect biodiversity and public safety; to address human-wildlife conflicts and their impact on tourism and livelihoods
- Regions Affected by Trekking Ban
- Kudremukh National Park, Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary, Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary
- Ban Start Date
- January 14, 2026
- Daily Revenue Loss Due to Safari Suspension
- ₹3 crore for eco-tourism belt, ₹60-70 lakh for Jungle Lodges and Resorts and Forest Department
- Occupancy Drop in Resorts
- From 75-80% to 30-40%
- Jobs at Risk
- 1,200-1,500 daily wage and contract jobs
- Local Purchases Reduction
- Approximately ₹10 lakh in one resort
- Safari Suspension Start Date
- 7-8 November 2025
Sources
Sentient Animals Like Elephants Deserve More Respect, says New Study by World Animal Protection
Karnataka Safari Suspension Triggers Tourism and Livelihood Crisis; KETRA Seeks Science Based Review and Phased Resumption With Safety Measures
