Lucknow: With the ecotourism season in Uttar Pradesh beginning on Nov 1, the state’s tiger reserves have started drawing domestic travellers along with foreign visitors from countries such as Australia, the UK and Sri Lanka.Minister of state for environment, forest and climate change (independent charge) Arun Kumar Saxena inaugurated the season at Pilibhit Tiger Reserve on Sunday by performing havan-pujan rituals and flagging off safari vehicles. Officials said the reserve received international tourists on the opening day itself, adding momentum to local tourism activity.Declared a tiger reserve in 2014, Pilibhit has steadily built a reputation among wildlife tourists. Authorities attributed the growing interest to the reserve’s rising tiger population and the scenic Terai landscape, which have helped it gain recognition beyond India.To improve visitor facilities this season, the reserve has introduced online safari bookings and added new accommodation options, including Tharu huts, water huts and tree huts. A new canteen has also opened at Sapt Sarovar, aimed at wildlife enthusiasts and serving Bengali cuisine.According to an official release, all safari slots from the opening day through Nov 9 have already been booked.
