Tourism season begins early amid vibrant celebrations at Dudhwa and Pilibhit Tiger Reserves
Lucknow: In a grand ceremony marked by Vedic chants and cultural vibrancy, Uttar Pradesh’s Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena, inaugurated the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve Tourism Season 2025–26.
This year, the much-awaited tourism season commenced 15 days earlier than usual—on November 1 instead of November 15—to cater to the growing enthusiasm of tourists and boost eco-tourism in the region.
The ceremony at Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Palia-Kheri, began with traditional rituals and colorful festivities. A unique highlight was the majestic elephant Gangkali welcoming guests, tourists, and media representatives. Guests reciprocated by feeding Gangkali bananas, jaggery, and fruits, symbolizing harmony between humans and wildlife.
Prior to the inauguration, Dr. Saxena, accompanied by Anil Kumar, Principal Secretary (Environment, Forest and Climate Change), and Sunil Choudhary, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Department, inspected the preparations and expressed satisfaction with the arrangements.
Adding artistic flair to the event, students from The Indian Academy created exquisite rangoli designs inspired by forests and wildlife, which drew wide appreciation. Members of the Tharu tribal community, residing in the forest interiors, were also included in the festivities to encourage local participation in eco-tourism.
To maintain affordability while accommodating the increasing tourist demand, a marginal revision in entry rates was introduced this season. The opening day witnessed overwhelming enthusiasm among visitors and media personnel, reflecting the growing popularity of Dudhwa as a premier wildlife destination.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Anuradha Vemuri, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Dr. H. Rajamohan, Chief Conservator and Field Director, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve, Arvind Kumar Singh, Managing Director, UP Forest Corporation, and Pushp Kumar, Managing Director, UP Tourism Department, among others. District Magistrate Durga Shakti Nagpal and senior forest officers were also present.
Tourism Season Begins at Pilibhit Tiger Reserve
On the same day, Dr. Arun Kumar Saxena also inaugurated the new tourism season at the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, performing a ceremonial havankund puja and ribbon-cutting at the Barahi Gate. The event commenced with the flagging off of safari vehicles, marking the formal start of wildlife tourism for 2025–26.
Dr. Saxena also planted saplings, spreading the message of environmental conservation, and emphasized that tree plantation is the foundation of life. He urged citizens to contribute towards maintaining ecological balance.
The minister later visited stalls set up by women self-help groups (SHGs), interacting with members and appreciating the quality of their locally made products. He praised the SHGs for empowering rural women and contributing to the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Saxena said: “Tiger reserves like Dudhwa and Pilibhit are not only vital for biodiversity conservation but also strengthen the regional economy through eco-tourism and community participation.”
He directed officials to ensure adequate facilities for tourists, so visitors can take home unforgettable experiences of the region’s natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural richness.
The Director of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve briefed the minister on ongoing wildlife conservation initiatives and tourism management. The event concluded amid an atmosphere of enthusiasm and festivity, attended by local MLAs, senior officials, and district representatives, including District President Sanjeev Pratap Singh, MLA Baburam Paswan, MLA Vivek Verma, and District Magistrate Gyanendra Singh.
The simultaneous inauguration of the Dudhwa and Pilibhit tourism seasons marks the beginning of another vibrant chapter for Uttar Pradesh’s eco-tourism, blending conservation, culture, and community livelihood.
