In celebration of World Environment Day, The Serai Resorts—Karnataka's leading boutique resort group—reaffirms its commitment to responsible hospitality through a series of ongoing sustainability initiatives designed to reduce environmental impact while encouraging guests to connect more deeply with nature.

Nestled amidst some of Karnataka’s most pristine natural landscapes, from the lush coffee plantations of Chikmagalur and the wilderness of Bandipur to the tranquil waterfront of Kabini, The Serai Resorts has always embraced a philosophy of existing in harmony with its surroundings. Sustainability is therefore not merely an initiative, but an integral part of the guest experience across all its properties.

As part of its ongoing environmental efforts, The Serai Resorts has implemented water conservation measures through rainwater harvesting and reservoir management systems. Water collected across the properties is carefully channelled into dedicated reservoirs, helping conserve and efficiently utilise water resources.

The Serai Resorts has also taken significant steps towards reducing single-use plastics across guest touchpoints. In line with this commitment, packaged plastic water bottles have been replaced with reusable glass jugs, minimising plastic waste while offering a more sustainable in-room experience for guests.

To commemorate World Environment Day, The Serai Resorts will be conducting sapling plantation drives across its properties. Guests staying at the resorts will also be presented with saplings, encouraging them to carry forward the spirit of environmental stewardship beyond their stay and contribute to a greener future.

Beyond these initiatives, The Serai Resorts continues to adopt environmentally conscious operational practices, including environmentally safer pest control solutions and sustainable maintenance measures that help protect and preserve the surrounding ecosystem. The properties' low-density architectural planning further reduces environmental strain while ensuring that the natural landscape remains an integral part of the guest experience.

By balancing sustainability, thoughtful expansion, and guest-centric innovation, The Serai Resorts aims to continue setting benchmarks for boutique luxury hospitality in India while safeguarding the natural environments that make each destination unique.

Karnataka | March 2026: The Serai Resorts announces the official resumption of wildlife safaris for guests at The Serai Bandipur, located in Bandipur National Park and The Serai Kabini, near Nagarhole National Park effective 22 February 2026, in line with the Ministry’s circular permitting reopening under revised operational guidelines.

Safari operations have recommenced at 50 percent capacity, while timings remain unchanged. Online bookings are temporarily unavailable, with reservations being coordinated offline in consultation with safari operators and Jungle Lodges & Resorts. All safaris are being conducted in strict adherence to the Supreme Court of India’s November 2025 directive, National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) guidelines, and directions issued by the Karnataka Forest Department. Drivers have been instructed to maintain appropriate distances between vehicles to minimise ecological impact within the forest.

The reopening follows extensive coordination with forest authorities, conservation experts and local communities to facilitate a structured resumption. A technical committee constituted by the State Board for Wildlife undertook a carrying capacity audit during the closure period, resulting in defined daily visitor limits to safeguard sensitive habitats. Additional on-ground measures include strengthened boundary monitoring camps, community-led “Forest Friends” initiatives, removal of invasive Lantana camara to restore grasslands, servicing of artificial waterholes ahead of summer, and completion of fire line works to mitigate forest fire risks.

Updated visitor guidelines are in effect in accordance with the Supreme Court of India’s November 2025 directive and the Karnataka Forest Ministry’s February 2026 notification. The continued restriction on mobile phone usage during safaris aims to minimise ecological disturbance and encourage a more immersive wildlife experience.

Commenting on the resumption, Saibal Sen, Chief Operating Officer, The Serai Resorts, said, “We are delighted that safaris have resumed and look forward to welcoming our guests to experience the remarkable wildlife of Bandipur and Nagarhole. We remain committed to responsible tourism that balances guest experience with conservation and community engagement. Every safari is not merely an exploration of the wilderness, but a meaningful step towards sustaining it for generations to come.”

The Serai Resorts continues to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that wildlife tourism in Karnataka evolves responsibly and sustainably.

For media enquiries, please contact:
Prachi Tandon, Group General Manager – Marketing & Communications | Prachi.tandon@theserai.in

ABOUT THE SERAI RESORTS
The Serai Resorts, Karnataka's leading luxury boutique resort chain, offers destination inspired stays and experiences. Established close to two decades ago, the group is rooted in breath-taking destinations, The Serai unfolds across Chikmagalur’s lush coffee plantations, Kabini’s riverfront wilderness, and Bandipur’s iconic tiger reserve, offering journeys that weave nature with refined comfort. Today, The Serai Resorts embodies understated elegance, immersive storytelling, and a promise of unforgettable tranquil escapes.

The Serai Chikmagalur has been recognised as 'Best Staycation Resort in India' by Travel + Leisure.

For more details, visit www.theserai.in , email at enquiries@theserai.in or call +91-80-48893964