An Ambitious Nocturnal Vision
Uttar Pradesh is set to redefine wildlife tourism with India’s first-ever urban night safari, located in the Kukrail Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Lucknow. After years of planning and regulatory reviews, the project received the final go-ahead from
the Supreme Court in July 2026, clearing the path for construction to begin. Inspired by Singapore’s world-renowned Night Safari, the park aims to offer an immersive experience, allowing visitors to see nocturnal animals in their most active state. Unlike traditional daytime zoos, the entire concept is built around the after-dark world of wildlife, utilising specially designed, low-impact lighting that mimics moonlight to avoid disturbing the animals while providing clear views for visitors. The safari will be a journey through carefully curated habitats aboard quiet, battery-operated trams.
A New, Modern Home for Lucknow’s Zoo
A central part of the expansive project is the planned relocation of the city’s beloved, century-old Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Zoological Garden. The current zoo, situated in the congested Narhi area, faces space constraints. The move to Kukrail is designed to provide the animals with larger, more naturalistic enclosures that meet modern standards of animal welfare. This new Day Zoo will complement the Night Safari, creating a comprehensive wildlife destination spread across hundreds of acres. The relocation is a monumental task, involving the careful transfer of over 100 species to their new home. This move not only promises a better environment for the animals but also aims to decongest the city centre.
What to Expect on Your Journey
The experience promises to be multifaceted. The Night Safari itself will feature theme-based zones showcasing wildlife from different regions, with naturalistic habitats for species like Asiatic lions, Bengal tigers, leopards, and hyenas. Visitors can expect to travel through these zones on a tram tour lasting approximately 40 minutes. Beyond the safari, the master plan includes a host of other attractions. These include interpretation centres for wildlife education, a 7D theatre, nature trails for walking, and recreational areas. The project is being developed in two phases, with the Night Safari and eco-tourism zone forming the first phase, followed by the establishment of the Day Zoo. The goal is to create a holistic destination that combines tourism, conservation, research, and education.
Balancing Conservation and Development
The project’s location within the Kukrail Reserve Forest, a vital green lung for Lucknow planted in the 1950s, naturally raised ecological questions. The area is already famous for its highly successful Gharial Rehabilitation Centre, established in 1975, which has played a crucial role in conserving the critically endangered species. Officials have confirmed that this vital conservation work will continue and be integrated into the new park’s framework. The Supreme Court’s approval came with strict conditions related to environmental compliance, and a committee has been tasked with monitoring the project’s execution to ensure it adheres to these guidelines. The plan emphasizes the use of eco-friendly infrastructure and aims to position the park not just as a tourist attraction but as a centre for conservation breeding and public awareness.
The Road Ahead
With legal hurdles cleared, the focus now shifts to construction. The first phase of the project is estimated to take around two years to complete. While an official opening date is yet to be announced, the development marks a significant step forward. The Kukrail Night Safari is poised to be a game-changer for tourism in Uttar Pradesh, adding a unique wildlife attraction to the state’s rich portfolio of heritage and spiritual sites. For wildlife enthusiasts and families alike, the prospect of exploring a moonlit jungle and observing its inhabitants in a responsible, engaging manner is becoming a much-anticipated reality. All eyes will be on Lucknow as it brings this after-dark wildlife journey to life.
