The park was originally conceptualized as a rehabilitation center for tigers rescued from circuses and conflict zones.
The safari area spans several hundred acres of protected forest, separating predators from the public by fortified natural boundaries.
The facility is managed by the Shimoga Zoo Authority, focusing on ex-situ conservation efforts.
The site features a specialized deer park that hosts a high density of spotted deer often visible from the roadside.
Visitors are strictly prohibited from exiting vehicles within the safari gates to prevent human-animal conflict.
Lion Tiger Safari and Zoo, located near Shimoga in Karnataka, is a large forest reserve established to provide a natural habitat for captive-bred wild cats. The site operates as a drive-through safari park where visitors traverse forested enclosures via government-provided vehicles. It serves as a rescue and rehabilitation center for tigers and lions displaced or injured in the wild. The enclosures are designed to mimic the hilly, tropical terrain characteristic of the Western Ghats region. Beyond the safari, the facility maintains an adjacent mini-zoo housing various species of birds, reptiles, and smaller mammals. The site covers a significant land area within the Devara Koppa forest range, emphasizing minimal human interference with the animals' natural behavior.
The viewing deck overlooking the deer park area.
Bring binoculars for better views, as animals may be resting deep within the foliage.
Wear muted, earth-toned clothing to avoid attracting unwanted attention from animals or being too conspicuous.
Keep windows closed throughout the duration of the drive-through safari for safety.
Attempting to feed the animals or making loud noises to provoke them to move.
Closed on Tuesdays for weekly maintenance and cleaning.
Strictly no feeding of animals; maintain silence during the safari; no littering in the forest area.
