- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Tue, 06 May 2025 10:36 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Yogi government’s focus on promoting natural and religious tourism is yielding positive results, with increasing tourist numbers reported at Dudhwa and Pilibhit Tiger Reserves. According to the Tourism Department, both reserves have seen a significant rise in footfall during the current season, particularly among domestic travelers, while efforts are being intensified to attract more foreign tourists.
During the 2023–24 tourist season, which spans from November to June, Dudhwa Tiger Reserve recorded 50,961 Indian and 234 foreign tourists. In the current season, from November to April alone, 44,070 Indian and 574 foreign tourists have already visited.
Pilibhit Tiger Reserve saw 48,407 Indian and 143 foreign tourists last season, while the current season has so far brought in 35,395 Indian and 342 foreign tourists. The numbers are expected to rise further in the remaining two months.
To enhance international visibility, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department recently showcased its natural destinations, including Dudhwa and Pilibhit, at the Arabian Travel Mart. Additional global promotional campaigns are also in the pipeline to boost foreign tourist arrivals.
Facilities at these reserves are being upgraded to improve the visitor experience. Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), Anuradha Vemuri, informed that 90 trained nature guides have been deployed at Dudhwa and 75 at Pilibhit, with training provided by The Nature School, Bengaluru. Additionally, 30 local individuals have been trained as hospitality workers, enhancing both tourist convenience and local employment.
Tourist influx has also been reported to be rising at Amangarh and Ranipur Tiger Reserves, further signaling the success of the state’s push toward eco-tourism.