Bhopal: In compliance with a Supreme Court directive, the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department has announced a ban on night safaris across all tiger reserves in the state, effective from 1 December 2025. Tourists who had booked night safaris in advance will receive full refunds. Going forward, only day safaris will be permitted in tiger reserves.
Supreme Court Orders End to Night Safaris
The Supreme Court, on 17 November 2025, ordered a ban on all night safaris across tiger reserves in India. The decision was taken to protect wildlife and minimize disturbances to nocturnal animals, ensuring their natural behavior and habitat are preserved.
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Instructions Issued to All Tiger Reserves
Following the apex court order, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Shubhranjan Sen, instructed Field Directors of all tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh to immediately halt night safari operations.
Rakhi Nanda, Field Director of Satpura Tiger Reserve, confirmed that night safaris in the buffer zones of the reserve will stop entirely from 1 December 2025. Tourists with pre-booked night safaris will be refunded according to existing rules.
Tiger Reserves Affected
Night safaris were earlier operational in several buffer zones, including –
- Pipariya Buffer
- Bagda Buffer
- Delakhari Buffer
These safaris typically started at 6 PM. Following the ban, only daytime safaris will be conducted in these areas, ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife during nighttime.
Why the Ban Was Implemented
Officials highlighted that the ban aims to –
- Ensure safety and well-being of wildlife
- Reduce human interference during nocturnal hours when animals are most active
Protect natural habitats and behavior patterns of tigers and other species
What This Means for Tourists
- Night safaris are no longer allowed in any tiger reserves of Madhya Pradesh
- Tourists can now participate in day safaris only
- Full refunds will be provided for any previously booked night safaris
Entry into buffer zones during nighttime is now prohibited
