Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. UPKWS operates year-round, including through the monsoon, so safaris are available in every month. The only regular closures are weekly and differ by gate — Karhandla Gate and Gothangaon Gate are closed every Monday, while Pauni Gate is closed every Tuesday. There is no single day on which the whole sanctuary is shut, so an open gate is available on any day of the week.

Karhandla Gate is widely regarded as the best for tiger sightings — it opens into the densest, most tiger-rich core zone of the sanctuary and has the highest recorded sighting frequency. Gothangaon Gate is a strong alternative for Gaur and wild dog sightings, while Pauni Gate offers excellent birdlife along the Wainganga riverbanks.

Early morning safaris (5:30 AM – 9:00 AM) are best for wildlife activity as animals are most active at dawn. Seasonally, November to February offers pleasant weather with good visibility, while the hotter months of March to May often bring the highest tiger sighting rates as animals gather around shrinking waterholes.

Each open safari jeep (gypsy) accommodates a maximum of 6 guests, along with the driver and a forest department naturalist guide.

Yes, children of all ages are welcome on the safari when accompanied by an adult. Parents are advised to carry water, sun protection and warm clothing for early morning slots, and to keep young children seated and calm to avoid disturbing wildlife.

A valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Voter ID or Driving Licence) is required for every guest at the time of gate entry, as details are recorded for the forest department safari permit. Please carry the original ID used at the time of booking.

Yes. You can select your preferred gate — Karhandla, Gothangaon or Pauni — during the online booking process, subject to permit availability for your chosen date and slot.

If a safari is cancelled by the forest department due to weather, closure or other unavoidable circumstances, you will be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule to another available date. If you cancel your own booking at least 48 hours before the safari date, a refund is issued minus a small processing fee; cancellations made within 48 hours of the safari are generally non-refundable.

Yes, date changes can be requested by contacting our team at least 48 hours before your scheduled safari, subject to permit availability on the new date. Changes made within 48 hours may not be possible due to forest department permit processing timelines.

Carry your original government ID proof, comfortable clothing in muted earthy tones (avoid white or bright colours), a cap and sunscreen, drinking water, and a camera or binoculars. A light jacket is useful for early morning safaris, and it's best to avoid loud colours, perfumes and plastic bags inside the sanctuary.