The Uttar Pradesh government is extending the ecotourism season by at least a month to boost tourism and create more employment opportunities for locals. The move comes as the state witnesses a significant increase in tourist numbers at its tiger reserves and national parks. The ecotourism season in Uttar Pradesh typically starts on November 15th, but this year it was opened earlier on November 6th. The government also extended the season’s closure from June 15th to June 25th. The state is focusing on developing Katarniaghat wildlife sanctuary to the same standard as Dudhwa and Pilibhit Tiger Reserves, aiming to attract even more tourists. Despite no increase in entry fees for several years, the state has seen a substantial rise in revenue due to the growing number of visitors. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve saw a 54% increase in tourist numbers from 2022-23 to 2023-24, while Pilibhit Tiger Reserve witnessed a near-doubling of visitors during the same period. The increase in tourist numbers at other reserves like Amangarh and Ranipur further highlights the growing popularity of ecotourism in Uttar Pradesh.