Safari Zones In Jim Corbett

The Safari Zones In Jim Corbett are strategically split into eight ecotourism zones for promoting sustainable tourism and wildlife protection. These regions—Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Garjiya, Sitabani, Pakhro, Dhela, and Durga Devi—are governed by forest officers who carry out jeep safaris in two shifts every day. For the sake of ecological balance, the number of cars is strictly monitored in each zone. Each of the safari zones at Jim Corbett presents a unique mix of country, vegetation, and wildlife, an individualized wilderness experience. Tiger sightings are relatively comparable, but the varied countries render every zone a special peek into the high diversity of the Corbett area.

Dhikala zone in jim corbett

Entry Gate: Dhangadi Gate (32 km from Ramnagar)
Open Season: 15th November – 15th June (Closed during monsoon)
Safari Type: Day Canter Safari only (No Jeep Safari permitted)
Forest Rest Houses (FRHs):
- Dhikala FRH – Largest and most popular, with a watchtower and canteen
- Gairal FRH – Peaceful riverside stay, excellent for birdwatchers
- Sarpduli FRH – Located near the Ramganga River, ideal for elephant sightings
- Sultan FRH – Entry-level FRH inside the park, perfect for a first-night stop

Renowned as the crown jewel of Corbett, Dhikala is the largest and most celebrated zone, especially famous for overnight stays at its forest lodges. The region is home to vast chaur grasslands, rich Sal forests, and the scenic Ramganga river channels. With frequent tiger sightings and a stunning valley view backed by the Kanda Ridge, Dhikala offers a truly immersive wildlife experience. Wildlife includes elephants, deer species, wild boars, and an incredible array of birds. Day safaris are conducted via 16-seater canter buses—advanced booking is essential.

Bijrani zone in jim corbett

Entry Gate: Amdanda Gate (2 km from Ramnagar)
Open Season: 15th October – 30th June
Safari Type: Day Jeep Safari (2 shifts – Morning & Afternoon)
Forest Rest Houses (FRHs):

- - Bijrani FRH – Located in the heart of the zone with basic yet scenic forest accommodation
  - Mailani FRH – A quieter alternative nestled deeper inside the jungle

Bijrani rivals Dhikala in beauty and popularity. It features peaceful forest trails, rolling grasslands, and vibrant wildlife. Tigers are commonly sighted here, making it a top pick for day safari-goers. The serene surroundings and accessibility make Bijrani one of the most visited zones. Each shift allows up to 30 jeeps, each with a guide/naturalist.

Jhirna zone in jim corbett

Entry Gate: Dhela Gate (15 km from Ramnagar)
Open Season: Open Year-Round (subject to weather conditions)
Safari Type: Day Jeep Safari
Forest Rest Houses (FRHs):
- Jhirna FRH – Located deep inside the forest, ideal for spotting tigers and wild bears
- Dhela FRH – A peaceful base to explore both Dhela and Jhirna zones

Located at the park’s southern boundary, Jhirna is known for its frequent tiger and sloth bear sightings. Open throughout the year, it offers a reliable safari experience with chances to see deer, elephants, and rich birdlife. It supports two shifts with 30 jeeps each.

Dhela zone in jim corbett

Entry Gate: Dhela (15 km from Ramnagar)
Open: Year-round (weather permitting)
Safari Type: Day Jeep Safari
Forest Rest Houses: None

The Dhela zone, opened in December 2014, is the newest safari area in Corbett National Park. Open year-round, weather permitting, it features diverse terrain with dense forests of Sal, Haldu, Bahera, Rohini, and Kusum trees, expansive grasslands, and serene water bodies.
This zone is home to a rich variety of wildlife including Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, wild elephants, Nilgai, deer, bears, reptiles, and numerous bird species. Known as one of the best spots for birdwatching in Corbett, it attracts many nature enthusiasts.

Durga Devi zone in jim corbett

Entry Gate: Durga Devi (28 km from Ramnagar)
Open: 15th November – 15th June
Safari Type: Day Jeep Safari
Forest Rest House: Lohachaur

The Durga Devi zone, located on the northeastern edge of Corbett National Park, offers a stunning hilly landscape rich in flora and fauna. This zone is nourished by the Ramganga and Mandal rivers, creating vibrant water bodies that add to its natural beauty. Wildlife here includes majestic tigers, leopards, wild elephants, and otters near Domunda Bridge. The zone is also a haven for birdwatchers, home to species like the Gray-headed Fishing Eagle, Maroon Oriole, and Long-tailed Broadbill. Visitors can explore this zone via jeep safari and stay overnight at the Lohachaur Forest Rest House with prior booking.

Sitabani zone in jim corbett

Entry Gate: Near Teda Village (approx. 4 km from Ramnagar)
Exit Gate: Paulgarh Gate
Open: Year-round
Safari Type: Jeep Safari, Elephant Safari, Walking Trail
Forest Rest Houses: Privately operated lodges

The Sitabani Zone, located outside the Corbett Tiger Reserve, is a serene buffer zone open to all nature lovers. Known for its scenic beauty, it features dense forests, rivers, and ancient temples like the Sitabani Temple maintained by the ASI. Wildlife sightings include elephants, deer, Nilgai, and occasionally tigers and leopards. Home to over 600 bird species—many of them migratory—it’s a haven for birdwatchers. Visitors can explore the area via jeep, elephant, or on foot, and private vehicles are also permitted after paying the entry fee at Teda Gate. A unique feature is the night safari, offering a thrilling experience through this quiet, wild forest.

Garjiya zone in jim corbett

Entry Gate: Amdanda (9 km from Ramnagar)
Open: 15th November – 30th June
Safari Type: Morning & Evening Jeep Safaris
Forest Rest Houses: Garjiya, Malani

One of the newest zones, Garjiya was created to accommodate rising tourist demand. Rich in biodiversity and scenic beauty, it features lush forests and vibrant wildlife, including tigers and leopards. With limited jeep entries, it promises an uncrowded and serene safari experience.

Phato zone in jim corbett

Entry Gate: Phato Gate (Mohan Nagar Maldhan, 26 km from Ramnagar)
Exit Gate: Phato Gate
Open Period: 15th November to 30th June
Safari Type: Morning & Evening Jeep Safaris
Max Jeep Safaris: 50 Jeeps per shift (2 shifts per day)
Forest Rest House: Unique Treehouse Stay Available

Situated deep within the tranquil wilderness of Jim Corbett National Park, the Phato Zone is a new and thrilling attraction for nature lovers. Famous for its tranquil environment and high density of flora and fauna, Phato provides a raw safari experience free from the tourist cacophony.This area is inhabited by a varied population of wildlife, which includes the exquisite Royal Bengal Tiger, making it one of the most promising places for tiger sightings. The landscape is a stunning combination of dense forests, open grasslands, and water bodies—ideal for photography and nature walks.

Safari Booking Guidelines

All safaris must be booked in advance through the official Corbett tourism website or authorized agents.
Each safari jeep accommodates a maximum of 6 adults + 1 child.
Photo ID is mandatory at the time of safari entry.
Safaris are conducted in two shifts daily: Morning and Evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Which is the best zone for tiger sightings?

Dhikala and Bijrani are considered the best for tiger sightings.

Can I do a safari during the monsoon?

Yes, Jhirna, Dhela, and Sitabani zones remain open year-round, weather permitting.

What’s the difference between Canter and Jeep Safari?

Canter safari (available only in Dhikala) is a shared 16-seater vehicle. Jeep safaris are private and more flexible.

Plan Your Safari Now!

Choosing the right zone is key to a memorable jungle adventure. Our experts at Bigcat Corbett will guide you through zone selection, permit booking, and accommodation planning—all in one smooth experience.

📞 Contact us +91 9690259181 , +91 7300843174
📧 Email: Bigcatcorbett@gmail.com
📍 Location: BigCat Corbett near Diners Villa Dhikuli Ramnagar Nainital 244715.

Safari Zones In Jim Corbett