Jaipur: A visit to Ranthambore National Park became costlier from April 1 after the forest dept hiked tiger safari charges by 10%, with revised rates coming into effect from Wednesday in Jaipur.The hike applied to both domestic and foreign tourists opting for canter and gypsy safaris inside the reserve.An officials said, “The annual increase follows a 2016 decision to revise entry and safari fees by 10% every year from April 1. The revised tariff has since been implemented annually.”Under the revised rates, Indian tourists will now pay Rs 986.63 per person for a canter safari, up from Rs 888 earlier. For foreign tourists, the canter charge has been increased from Rs 2,176.10 to Rs 2,399.63 per person.Similarly, gypsy safari charges for Indian visitors rose to Rs 1,611.80 from Rs 1,455.17, while foreign tourists will now pay Rs 3,024.80 instead of Rs 2,743.17.Stakeholders said that while annual revision of safari charges was a recognised feature, Ranthambore National Park was already among the most expensive wildlife destinations in the state. They said and the forest department should exercise restraint. “People who undertake multiple safaris already feel the pinch,” said one operator. “If prices are increased, there should also be tangible improvements in infrastructure, including better public amenities, toilets and visitor facilities inside the park.”
