Tiger Sighting Near Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve Raises Alarm Over Tourist Behaviour

The video of the sighting has gone viral, prompting strong condemnation from wildlife enthusiasts, who have urged tourists to follow all safety guidelines during jungle safaris. They stressed that the purpose of a safari is to observe wildlife from a safe distance, not to disturb or provoke animals.

The incident is not an isolated example of tourists putting themselves and wildlife at risk in pursuit of a closer look or a viral video.

In January 2026, safari vehicles in the Phato eco-tourism zone near Uttarakhand’s Jim Corbett National Park were filmed chasing a tiger at high speed. After the footage surfaced, the forest department barred two drivers and two nature guides from safari duties.

In another similar incident, three tourists were fined Rs 15,000 in November 2024 after stepping out of their vehicle in the Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and chasing a herd of deer. Forest officials traced the vehicle and took action after the incident was recorded on video.

The incidents highlight concerns over the pursuit of the “perfect” wildlife photograph or social media reel, which can turn a safari into a dangerous spectacle.

Forest officials and wildlife experts have warned that a tiger is not a prop for a selfie. They have said that stepping out of a vehicle, crowding an animal, blocking its path, chasing it or making excessive noise can stress wildlife and create unpredictable situations.

They have urged tourists and wildlife enthusiasts to remember that a genuine wildlife encounter does not require getting closer, but giving the animal space to move freely and allowing it to remain wild.

For tourists, guides and drivers, following safety rules is not merely about protecting themselves. It is also about ensuring that wildlife reserves remain places where animals can exist without being harassed for the sake of a photograph, a reel or a few seconds of online attention.