A New Chapter for Indian Wildlife Tourism
For years, wildlife enthusiasts have had to contend with daytime visits to zoos and national parks, often when animals are at their least active. Lucknow is set to change that narrative. Following a recent green light from the Supreme Court in July 2026,
the city is moving forward with an ambitious project to establish India's first urban night safari in the Kukrail Reserve Forest. Inspired by world-renowned attractions in Singapore, this safari will allow visitors to observe nocturnal animals during their natural hours of activity. The concept is simple yet revolutionary for India: create an immersive environment that showcases the hidden lives of animals that thrive in the dark, from majestic big cats to elusive smaller creatures. This initiative positions Uttar Pradesh not just as a hub for heritage and culture, but as a pioneer in innovative wildlife tourism.
Inside the Kukrail Project
The safari is planned for the sprawling Kukrail Reserve Forest, an ecologically significant area on the outskirts of Lucknow already famous for its gharial conservation centre. The entire project is estimated to cost around ₹1,500 crore and will be developed over approximately 855 acres of forest land. The plan, which has been in the works for several years and faced intense judicial and environmental scrutiny, will be executed in phases. The first phase is dedicated to the night safari itself, while a second phase involves developing a modern day zoo. To ensure a minimal environmental footprint, visitors will be transported via quiet, battery-operated trams on a designated 5.5-kilometre trail. A special lighting system designed to mimic natural moonlight will illuminate the enclosures, allowing for clear viewing without disturbing the animals.
Meet the Nocturnal Residents
The main attraction is, of course, the animals. The night safari will feature dozens of naturalistic enclosures designed to house a variety of species. According to initial plans, visitors can expect to see an impressive lineup of nocturnal and crepuscular animals in their active state. The proposed residents include iconic big cats like Asiatic lions and Bengal tigers, alongside leopards and hyenas. Other planned species include flying squirrels, various deer species, and bears. In total, the night safari section is expected to house 54 different species in 42 enclosures. The broader project, including the day zoo, aims to eventually host over 115 species, making it one of the largest integrated wildlife projects in the country.
The Visitor Experience and What to Expect
The experience is designed to be both thrilling and educational. The guided tram tour is expected to last around 40 minutes, taking visitors through different thematic zones that replicate natural habitats. Beyond the safari ride, the master plan includes a host of other facilities to create a comprehensive tourist destination. These include an interpretation centre for educational purposes, a 7D theatre, an auditorium, and nature trails for walking. Cafeterias and other visitor amenities are also part of the design. The park is being planned to handle a significant number of visitors, with an expected capacity of about 4,000 on weekdays and up to 8,000 on weekends and holidays. While the Supreme Court's approval is a major milestone, construction is just beginning. Officials estimate the completion of the night safari phase will take at least two years, after which it will be opened to the public. Ticket prices and official timings will be decided closer to the opening date.
