Valmiki Tiger Reserve Resumes Safari for 2025-26 Tourist Years on 23rd October
After a long monsoon break, the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) in Bihar has once again opened its gates for visitors. Starting from October 23, 2025, tourists can enjoy the jungle safaris that mark the beginning of the new tourist season (2025-26). The opening day itself turned out to be quite exciting, as visitors were lucky enough to spot a tiger roaming freely in the Manguraha forest area. The reopening ceremony was led by Conservator of Forests Dr Neshamani K and Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Vikas Ahlawat, who flagged off the first set of safari jeeps early in the morning. After being closed for around four months during the monsoon, the reserve is now fully ready to welcome wildlife enthusiasts once again. The seasonal closure, from June to mid-October, is an important time for both animal breeding and forest rejuvenation.
Visitors on the inaugural day recounted their experience as truly enchanting. The group comprised multiple guests from neighbouring areas like Bettiah and Motihari. Among them were Executive Engineers from the Energy Department - Alok Amritanshu, Rajan Kumar, and Raju Kumar - who were part of the morning safari batch. They shared their excitement after witnessing various wildlife species, including deer, peacocks, and even bears. A first-time visitor, Arshad Jameel from Motihari, said, “It was amazing to see bears and deer so close. I also saw several beautiful birds and peacocks. The experience was far better than I expected.” For many visitors, such moments make the long journey to Valmiki Tiger Reserve worthwhile.
Valmiki Tiger Reserve, located in the West Champaran district of Bihar, is one of India’s most scenic and least crowded tiger reserves. It lies along the Indo-Nepal border and forms part of the Terai landscape, which also connects with Nepal’s Chitwan National Park. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, bears, deer, and several bird species. During the opening week, multiple safari teams reported sightings of both herbivores and carnivores. Many people found their first encounter with a tiger on the opening day to be an experience they would never forget. These early sightings have raised the bar for expectations in the upcoming season, particularly for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Forest Conservator Dr Neshamani mentioned that the seasonal break is crucial for wildlife protection and forest health. With the return of the safari season, the Forest Department is inviting locals to get involved. Individuals who own or operate private jeeps can now organise jungle safaris, provided they secure the necessary permissions. This move seeks to promote eco-tourism and boost the economy of the surrounding villages. By integrating private operators into the safari experience, it is anticipated that visitors will enjoy an enriched adventure in the wilderness. It will also help in better management of visitor flow and promote responsible tourism. The authorities have encouraged interested individuals to approach the department for necessary clearances.
Other Attractions near VTR
A trip to Valmiki Tiger Reserve isn’t just about spotting wild animals - it’s also about exploring the history, spirituality, and adventure that surround the park. Maharishi Valmiki’s Ashram offers a serene environment steeped in mythology, making it a great place for visitors to explore. According to tradition, this revered sage, who wrote ‘The Ramayana’, is said to have resided and meditated at this location. Additionally, adventure enthusiasts have taken a liking to the exciting rafting opportunities available on the Gandak River. The mix of serene nature, spiritual sites, and outdoor excitement makes Valmiki an ideal destination for both families and solo travellers looking for something beyond the ordinary.