Re‑opening of the Fato and Hathidanger Eco‑Zones
Starting 1 October, the Fato and Hathidanger sections of the Terai Western Forest Division are back on the tourist circuit after a monsoon‑season shutdown. The forest department used the closure to tighten conservation protocols and upgrade visitor amenities.
Daily Visitor Limits per Shift
To keep disturbance to wildlife to a minimum, the authorities have imposed firm caps on safari units. In the Fato zone, up to 50 gypsy‑style jeeps may operate in the morning and another 50 in the evening. Hathidanger will host 25 jeeps per shift, both for the morning and the evening runs.
New Overnight Stay Options
Fato, one of the most popular spots, now offers night‑stay facilities in addition to its daytime tours. The accommodation pool consists of 19 rooms spread across several formats: two tree‑house clusters (three rooms), five eco‑huts, four rooms inside a heritage British‑era building, two rooms in a historic structure, and five canvas‑tented cabins. All safari slots and lodging must be booked through the official online portal.
Why Personal Recording Devices Are Forbidden
Divisional Forest Officer Puneet Tomar explained that the ban on mobile phones, covert cameras and body‑mounted recorders is meant to reduce unnecessary complaints and simplify administration. Removing personal recording gear lets forest staff focus on wildlife protection and smoother visitor experiences.
Locker and Water Facilities at Entry Points
Every gate now features drinking‑water stations for bottle refills and secure lockers for phones and cameras. Portable lockers are also installed inside night‑stay safari vehicles, with drivers responsible for their safekeeping. Carrying any recording device inside the forest is strictly prohibited.
Safari Vehicle Registration Drive
The department has launched an accelerated registration campaign for all safari vehicles. Documents are being verified, and the process is expected to conclude within a week. Only vehicles that clear verification and display valid registration certificates will be allowed entry.
What Visitors Can Anticipate
Following a formal reopening ceremony attended by the local MLA on 1 October, tourists can again explore the rich fauna of Fato and Hathidanger. The fresh set of regulations—device bans, visitor caps, and upgraded overnight facilities—are designed to balance tourism growth with the core mission of wildlife conservation.
