In a major development for wildlife lovers across Uttarakhand, elephant safaris have officially resumed in both Corbett Tiger Reserve (CTR) and Rajaji Tiger Reserve (RTR) after nearly seven years. For Dehradun residents, this revival opens up an exciting opportunity to explore the state’s rich forests and wildlife in a way that has been off-limits since 2018.
According to Chief Wildlife Warden Ranjan Kumar Mishra, the decision follows the resolution of long-pending legal hurdles. A proposal to restart the safaris was placed before the Uttarakhand Wildlife Advisory Council and was approved by its ex officio Chairman, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, and Vice-Chairman, Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal.
With all approvals in place, elephant safaris have now resumed in:
Dhikala Range (Corbett Tiger Reserve)
Jhirna Range (Corbett Tiger Reserve)
Cheela Range (Rajaji Tiger Reserve) — the closest to Dehradun, making it easily accessible for city residents.
The move has already sparked tremendous excitement among tourists and wildlife enthusiasts visiting Uttarakhand during the current season.
The ban on elephant safaris was imposed by the Uttarakhand High Court on August 3, 2018. However, the Supreme Court lifted the ban on January 29, 2019, paving the way for the state to begin the process of reintroducing the experience.
Mishra emphasised that elephant safaris offer a rare opportunity to experience forest zones that are otherwise unreachable by vehicles. He said these safaris help connect the younger generation with wildlife, forests and conservation efforts—something that resonates deeply with the eco-conscious community in and around Dehradun.
He added that reintroducing these safaris will strengthen public engagement with Uttarakhand’s wildlife heritage and play an important role in encouraging conservation of natural habitats.
For Dehradun travellers, the reopening of elephant safaris—especially at Rajaji’s Cheela Range—means weekend trips, school excursions and wildlife getaways just became more immersive, adventurous and memorable than ever.