Good news for wildlife lovers. India is all set to get its first night safari tourism. Lucknow’s Kukrail Reserve Forest, noted for its gharial conservation efforts, is on track to become the country’s first-ever Night Safari destination after the Supreme Court cleared the ambitious project, subject to compliance with environmental conditions and statutory approvals. The night safari experience is inspired by Singapore’s globally acclaimed Night Zoo Safari. More details about the jungle
Lucknow
Unlike conventional wildlife parks that operate during daylight hours, the Kukrail Night Safari aims to showcase the fascinating world of animals that are naturally active at night.According to project plans, the safari ride will last around 40 minutes, allowing guests to observe animals from secure viewing areas separated by moats or specially designed glass barriers.Visitors are expected to travel through the safari aboard specially designed electric trams moving under controlled, simulated moonlight. The experience is being planned to recreate natural nocturnal conditions while minimising disturbance to wildlife. The concept is expected to offer an entirely different perspective on wildlife.Prime highlights of the parkSpread across nearly 855 acres of Kukrail Reserve Forest, the park will feature:India’s first Night SafariA modern day zoo with diurnal speciesNature trails and forest walksRecreational zonesVisitor interpretation centresConservation and breeding facilitiesOfficial project documents indicate that over 100 animal species—around 115 according to current plans—could eventually be housed across advanced naturalistic enclosures, making it one of India’s largest integrated wildlife tourism projects.Conservation remains the main Kukrail is already internationally recognised for its long-running Gharial Rehabilitation Centre. The animal has successfully bred and released thousands of endangered gharials into Indian rivers over the past five decades. The conservation centre will continue functioning alongside the new tourism infrastructure.The project is also expected to strengthen wildlife education by introducing interpretation centres and awareness programmes focused on India’s lesser-known nocturnal species and fragile ecosystems.Supreme Court approval has cleared a major hurdle. The clearance marks one of the biggest milestones for a project that has been under discussion for several years.How to reach
Kukrail Lucknow
Nearest airport: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport is around 15-20 km from the park and can be reached in about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic. Nearest railway station: Lucknow Junction and Charbagh Railway Station are also well connected with major Indian cities.This will also help boost the state’s tourism. The Night Safari could significantly expand Uttar Pradesh’s tourism portfolio beyond its famous spiritual and heritage destinations like Varanasi, Ayodhya, Agra and Prayagraj.The project is expected to generate employment, attract domestic and international tourists, and promote responsible eco-tourism while encouraging greater awareness about wildlife conservation.For wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and families alike, the prospect of safely exploring a moonlit jungle may soon become one of India’s most unforgettable travel experiences.
