Tiger Kingdom Incident: Tourist Attacked While Posing for Photos
Phuket, Thailand – June 2, 2025 – A shocking incident occurred at the popular tourist attraction, Tiger Kingdom, in Phuket, where an Indian tourist was attacked by a tiger while attempting to take a photo. The event has raised serious concerns about animal safety and the ethics of wildlife tourism.
The incident
According to reports, the tourist was accompanied by staff when he decided to pose with the tiger. As he squatted down and affectionately wrapped his arms around the tiger’s back, the animal suddenly turned and attacked him, resulting in injuries. Eyewitnesses captured the moment on video, which has since gone viral, igniting a debate over the treatment of wild animals in captivity.
The footage shows the tourist initially walking alongside the tiger while holding its leash, following the trainer’s commands. However, when he attempted to embrace the tiger for a photo, the animal reacted defensively, leading to the attack. The tourist screamed in pain, prompting alarm among onlookers, while staff quickly intervened to assist him. Fortunately, the injuries were not life-threatening.
This incident has sparked outrage among animal rights advocates, who are calling for stricter regulations on wildlife tourism. Organizations like the Thailand Wildlife Friends Foundation have condemned the practice of allowing tourists to interact closely with wild animals, emphasizing that such encounters can be dangerous for both humans and animals.
Critics argue that many attractions, including Tiger Kingdom, often sedate animals to make them more docile for tourist interactions, which can lead to severe stress and behavioral issues. They urge the public to reconsider visiting such venues that exploit animals for entertainment.
As the debate continues, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with wildlife tourism and the need for ethical practices that prioritize the well-being of animals. The local authorities are expected to review safety protocols at such attractions to prevent future occurrences.