India’s First Night Safari to Open in Uttar Pradesh by December 2026
Lucknow, November 19: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced that India’s first night safari will be inaugurated in December 2026 in the state capital, Lucknow. The Kukrail Night Safari and Wildlife Center will be developed as a unique attraction for nature lovers across the globe, making it the fifth night safari in the world.
In a high-level meeting at his official residence on Tuesday, the Chief Minister reviewed the project plans and directed officials to complete construction by June 2026. He emphasized the need for sustainable models to fund the safari and zoo, ensuring 72% of the area is dedicated to greenery while incorporating solar energy systems.
A Landmark Project for Uttar Pradesh
Describing the night safari as a flagship initiative of the state government, Yogi Adityanath highlighted that approval has already been obtained from the Central Zoo Authority of India. Spanning over 900 acres, the safari will be developed in phases, with both night and day safari facilities being introduced.
Global Tourist Attraction
The Chief Minister stated that the Kukrail Night Safari will place Uttar Pradesh on the international tourism map, attracting foreign tourists. The project will be linked to other prominent tourist destinations in Lucknow and will feature eco-tourism zones, ensuring a harmonious blend of wildlife and adventure activities.
World-Class Facilities and Attractions
The safari will feature an eco-tourism zone, quarantine centers, veterinary hospitals, operation theaters, a cafeteria, a 7D theater, an auditorium, and ample parking. Adventure activities such as superman zip lines, paddle boats, sky rollers, and a jungle animal-themed play area for children are also planned.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the safari will include a 5.5 km tramway and a 1.92 km pathway for observation. Key attractions will include Asiatic lions, Bengal tigers, leopards, flying squirrels, hyenas, and gharials. The zoo will host animals like sarus cranes, Himalayan bears, African lions, giraffes, and chimpanzees, with 63 enclosures planned across themed zones such as African Savannah and Incredible India.
Future Expansion and International Standards
The project will also include a world-class wildlife rescue center and veterinary hospital. The day safari is planned for the second phase of development. The zoo will be developed with distinct themes, including engineered wetlands, to enhance the visitor experience.
Highlights of the Night and Day Safari
- Themed zones such as Indian Walking Trail, Indian Foothills, Indian Wetland, and African Wetland.
- Main attractions will include Asiatic lions, Bengal tigers, leopards, flying squirrels, and hyenas.
- Facilities for tramway and pathway observation spanning over 5.5 km and 1.92 km, respectively.
- Eco-tourism initiatives and sustainable energy integration.
With this ambitious project, Uttar Pradesh aims to set a new benchmark in wildlife tourism and conservation while offering visitors a unique and immersive experience.
