KATHMANDU: Jeep safari services inside Chitwan National Park (CNP), a key attraction for both domestic and international tourists, have been suspended from June 30, as part of the park’s annual monsoon closure and to support the breeding season of wildlife and birds.

With over 50 jeeps normally operating from areas like Sauraha, Kasara, Meghauli, and Amaltari, the closure means a significant reduction in wildlife excursions during the rainy months.

Heavy rainfall during the monsoon often leads to swollen rivers, slippery trails, and overgrown vegetation, making safaris unsafe and wildlife sightings rare, resulting in the closure of the safaris during the wet season.

While the jungle safaris within the park are halted, visitors can still enjoy jeep rides in the surrounding buffer zone’s community forests. Other activities such as trekking and visits to the crocodile breeding centre remain open to tourists.

This seasonal closure is a routine conservation measure to ensure safety and protect biodiversity during a sensitive time for wildlife, though it is expected to affect monsoon travel and tourism in one of Nepal's most popular wildlife destinations.

It has been learnt that the safaris will resume around mid-September, depending on weather conditions and post-monsoon road repairs.