The long-awaited forest safari in Banke National Park has officially opened, offering tourists an opportunity to explore the park’s wildlife and natural beauty.

The safari was started after clearing the bushes along the forest paths and identifying areas where tigers are likely to be spotted, according to Mandeep Pangeni, the park’s information officer.

The safari is designed to provide an immersive wildlife experience, but with a few restrictions to preserve the park’s ecosystem.

Private vehicles are not allowed inside the park. Instead, a maximum of 10 people will be permitted on a safari vehicle, with a one-time fee of Rs 2,500 per vehicle owner.

Pangeni also shared that tourists wishing to participate in the safari can purchase tickets from the park headquarters in Overi or the sector office in Kohalpur.

The safari promises a thrilling experience for nature lovers, with opportunities to observe rare species such as leopards, along with their prey species like chital, chauka, and wild boars.

Infrastructure developments including scaffolding, grasslands, artificial ponds, and forest paths have been set up to enhance wildlife observation.

Additionally, Pangeni informed that a camera survey is underway to track tiger habitats within the park. This survey will provide valuable data on the tiger population, their habitats, and the status of prey species in the area.

Banke National Park, established in 2010, is the youngest national park in Nepal, covering 550 square kilometers across Banke, Dang, and Salyan districts.

With its diverse wildlife and ongoing conservation efforts, the park is set to become a key destination for eco-tourism and wildlife enthusiasts.