Beyond safari: Tadoba launches immersive VR wildlife experience

Chandrapur: Tourists visiting Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve are now set to step far beyond the traditional safari trail, as it introduces a groundbreaking virtual reality (VR) wildlife experience that brings the untamed beauty of Tadoba's dense forests, majestic wildlife and seasonal wonders vividly to life, offering visitors an extraordinary close encounter with nature while simultaneously opening new doors of sustainable livelihood for local communities.The initiative offers tourists a specially curated six-minute VR film that captures Tadoba's forests, wildlife and changing landscapes across all seasons. The experience is designed to provide deeper ecological insight, allowing visitors to virtually engage with Tadoba's biodiversity in ways conventional safaris may not always offer.Initially operational at Moharli and Khutwanda gates, VR viewing units will soon be available across all TATR entry points, with deployment linked to safari vehicle volumes to ensure wider visitor access. Plans are also underway to expand the facility to resorts based on demand and integrate it into the reserve's ‘Chala Mazha Tadoba' nature education initiative.Field director Prabhu Nath Shukla said the project reflects Tadoba's broader vision of combining technology-driven visitor engagement with conservation education. "This initiative strengthens responsible eco-tourism while empowering local communities through sustainable employment," he noted.Under the programme, each VR set has been assigned to local youth from buffer villages, who will manage operations and charge visitors a nominal Rs50 per session. The move is expected to generate direct employment for nearly 40 individuals, ensuring that conservation-linked tourism benefits surrounding communities.