Dhikala Zone
Overview
Dhikala Zone is the most famous and premium tourism zone of Jim Corbett National Park, known for its vast grasslands, riverbeds, dense sal forests, and high chances of tiger sightings. Located deep inside the core of the reserve, Dhikala offers the most authentic and immersive wildlife experience. With panoramic views of the Ramganga River and an abundance of wildlife, Dhikala is considered the ultimate destination for safari lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts.
This zone is open only during a specific season and offers both Canter Safari and Night Stay options inside forest lodges, giving visitors a chance to witness wildlife in its purest form.
Why Dhikala Zone is Special
- Highest probability of tiger sightings.
- Home to large herds of elephants, deer, and wild boars.
- Perfect for bird watching (over 500+ species).
- Stunning landscapes: grasslands, rivers, and dense forests.
- Exclusive Dhikala Forest Lodge Stay inside the core area.
- Longest safari route among all Corbett zones.
Canter Safari in Dhikala
The Canter Safari is the only way to explore Dhikala if you’re not staying inside the forest lodge
Canter Safari Highlights
- Best option for exploring deep Dhikala forest
- Safe, comfortable & affordable
- Perfect for families and large groups
Canter Safari Timings
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 11:30 AM
- Afternoon: 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM
(Timings vary slightly based on season.)
Dhikala Forest Lodge Night Stay
Dhikala is the only zone in Corbett that allows night stay inside the core area. The forest lodge is operated by the forest department and is extremely popular.
Why the Dhikala Stay is Unique
- Stay inside the core tiger habitat
- Early morning safaris start right from the lodge
- No commercial hotels around – 100% pure jungle
- Sunset views from the Ramganga riverbank
- Elephant herds roaming near the grasslands
- Serene, peaceful and completely nature-driven environment
Accommodation Types
- New Forest Rest House
- Old Forest Rest House
- Annexe Dormitories
- Hutments
(Basic rooms with limited amenities – no luxury items)
What’s Included
- Permit Cost Included
- Road Tax Covered
- All-Inclusive Safari Package
- No Hidden Charges — 100% Transparent Pricing
Location & Entry Gate
- Dhikala Zone Entry Gate: Dhangadi Gate
- Distance from Ramnagar: Approx 18 km
- Only people with canter permit or night-stay permit can enter.
Wildlife You Can Spot in Dhikala
Royal Bengal Tiger
Asian Elephants
Leopards
Hog Deer, Sambhar, Spotted Deer
Wild Boar
Gharial & Crocodile near Ramganga River
More than 500 species of birds
Dhikala is especially loved by wildlife photographers for grassland tiger shots and river-side elephant herds.
Best Time to Visit Dhikala
- Open Season: November to June
- Best months for sightings: December – May
Important Guidelines
- Limited permits available – book early
- Forest rules must be strictly followed
- No loud noise, no feeding animals
- Carry original ID proof
- Alcohol, smoking & outside food not allowed
- Last-minute entry is not permitted
Why Book Dhikala with Wild Rute Travel
Verified & government-approved safari bookings
Easy online process with full support
Experienced wildlife team
Priority booking for canter & night stay
Custom trip planning available