Dhikala Zone – Jim Corbett National Park
The Heart of Wildlife & Adventure in Corbett
Dhikala Zone is the heart of Jim Corbett National Park and the most famous safari zone in India. Known as the best location for tiger sightings, elephant herds, and breathtaking landscapes, this zone offers the most authentic and thrilling wildlife experience in Corbett.
Situated on the edge of the vast Patli Dun grasslands, overlooking the Ramganga River reservoir, Dhikala provides an exceptional habitat for diverse wildlife. Safari routes here take visitors through dense sal forests, open grasslands, riverbanks, and rocky terrains, making every moment adventurous and unpredictable.
Due to its rich wildlife density and untouched forest beauty, Dhikala Zone is considered a must-visit for serious wildlife lovers, photographers, and nature explorers.
- Wildlife Experience in Dhikala
Dhikala is the most wildlife-dense zone of Corbett and offers the highest chances of spotting:
- Royal Bengal Tigers (Top tiger territory)
- Large Elephant Herds
- Leopards, Crocodiles & Otters near the reservoir
- Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer & Wild Boar
- Over 600+ bird species including Raptors, Hornbills, Storks & Migratory Birds
The open grasslands make animal tracking easier and sightings more frequent — especially for predators hunting prey.
- Dhikala Jeep Safari
Jeep safari is allowed only for tourists staying inside Dhikala.
This exclusive rule helps maintain a peaceful ecosystem and enhances wildlife movement visibility.
Safari rides cover deep forest patches & riverbanks where wildlife activity is always high. Each safari is accompanied by trained guides and expert drivers who know the best animal routes.
- Canter Safari (For Day Visitors)
Visitors not staying inside can still explore Dhikala through a Canter Safari which operates from Ramnagar.
This open bus safari offers:
- Guided wildlife experience
- Long safari duration → deeper forest access
- High chances of big cat sightings
VERY popular → Advance booking is highly recommended.
- Location & Accessibility
- Entry Gate: Dhangarhi Gate
- Distance from Ramnagar: Approx. 18–20 km
After checking entry permits at the gate, tourists travel inside the forest to reach the zone.
- Dhikala Zone – Night Stay Inside the Core Area
Dhikala is the most popular and oldest tourism zone in Jim Corbett National Park, offering the best night stay experience inside the core forest area.
The Dhikala Forest Rest House (FRH) overlooks the Ramganga River and grasslands, making it ideal for spotting elephants, deer, crocodiles, and tigers from your balcony.
- Accommodation Type: Government Forest Rest Houses (FRH)
- FRH Options: Dhikala, Gairal, Sarpduli, Sultan
- Facilities: Basic rooms, solar-powered electricity, dining hall, forest canteen, security guards
- Booking: Through official Corbett Tiger Reserve website only
- Special Note: Night stay allowed only with valid safari permit; private vehicles are not allowed inside.
- Best Time to Visit
Dhikala Zone remains open Mid-November to Mid-June only.
Best wildlife season:
December to April → Highest tiger sightings & best visibility
Monsoon closure (July–Mid November) ensures safety and ecological balance
- Important Visitor Information
- Very limited availability → book safaris & stays well in advance
- ID proof required for permit bookings
- Only registered guides and authorized jeeps allowed
- No night safari or walking inside forest allowed
- Strict wildlife rules: silence, no feeding, no plastic waste
Safari Timings:
- Winter: 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM | 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM
- Summer: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM | 2:30 PM – 7:00 PM
(Timings may change seasonally)