Lucknow Night Safari: A New Wildlife Adventure After Dark!

Lucknow, already famous for its heritage, cuisine, and culture, is getting ready for something entirely new — India’s first urban night safari. Planned in the heart of the city’s green spaces, this project promises to bring wildlife to life after dusk, offering both nature lovers and families a unique experience unlike anything seen elsewhere in the country.

Spanning around 855 acres of Kukrail forest, the night safari is designed to let visitors witness nocturnal animals in a setting that mimics natural moonlit conditions. Officials say visitors will enjoy a 40-minute tram ride through the safari, alongside amenities like green open spaces, a cafeteria, nature trails, and more — all set up with environmental sensitivity in mind.

In the first phase, 38 animal enclosures will host species such as lions, tigers, leopards and birds, with plans to expand further in future phases.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has repeatedly emphasized the project’s importance, describing the night safari as a major eco-tourism initiative that could draw visitors from across India and abroad. He has urged authorities to develop it in a way that balances nature and tourism.

An official from the UP Eco Tourism Board, Pushp Kumar, highlighted that the safari’s facilities — including nature walk trails, bamboo round huts, and visitor amenities — are being created with environmental conservation as a priority. “These facilities will provide an enriching experience for visitors,” he said, underscoring the focus on eco-friendly tourism.

While many in Lucknow are excited about the project’s potential, environmental considerations are part of the conversation too. The safari plan aims to use open areas within the forest without disturbing dense vegetation and to promote awareness about wildlife conservation alongside tourism.

Officials are optimistic that, pending final clearances from the Supreme Court and environmental bodies, construction could begin soon and the night safari might open by December 2026 — making Kukrail a landmark attraction for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and tourists alike.

In short, Lucknow’s Kukrail Night Safari promises an exciting new way to explore wildlife after sunset, blending eco-tourism with adventure — and potentially putting the city on the global map for nature lovers.