🌿 Dhikala Zone

The Crown Jewel of Corbett

Vast chaur grasslands stretching to the Ramganga reservoir, the highest tiger density in the park, and a sense of wilderness that feels completely untouched. Dhikala is unlike anywhere else in India.

520 km²

Core Zone Area

40+

Tigers Recorded

Nov–Jun

Open Season

3 hrs

Safari Duration

Zone Overview

Where the Grasslands Meet the Wild

Dhikala is the deepest and most biodiverse zone in Jim Corbett National Park. Located in the core of the reserve, it encompasses the famous Dhikala chaur — a vast open grassland that acts as a natural magnet for wildlife. The Ramganga reservoir borders the southern edge, attracting animals to water year-round and creating extraordinary sightlines for photography.

Tiger sightings here are among the most reliable in the entire park. The combination of open terrain and high prey density — chital, sambar, nilgai, and wild boar — means big cats often move in daylight. Elephant herds numbering 50–100 individuals are a regular sight near the reservoir edges at dawn.

🐅 Highest Tiger Density 🌾 Chaur Grasslands 🦅 600+ Bird Species 🐘 Elephant Herds 📸 Photography Paradise 🚫 Closed Jul–Oct

Book Dhikala Safari

Entry gate to Garjiya tourism zone — Jim Corbett

What You Might See

Wildlife of Dhikala

Dhikala's open terrain makes sightings more frequent and photography far easier than dense forest zones.

Bengal Tiger

Highest probability in Corbett

Asian Elephant

Large herds near the reservoir

Leopard

Often seen at dusk near forest edge

Gharial/Mugger

On Ramganga banks

Spotted Deer

Frequent near water bodies

Golden Jackal

Active at dawn and dusk

Common Kingfisher

Vivid flash along the river

Sal Forest Birds

600+ species recorded

When to Visit

Dhikala Season Calendar

Dhikala is closed during the monsoon (July–October) — one of the few zones with this restriction, but it ensures the core zone regenerates each year.

NOV

DEC

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

Zone Open Zone Closed (Monsoon)

🌸 Nov–Feb · Peak Season

Cool weather (5–22°C), dry grasslands, maximum wildlife visibility. Tigers and elephants are most active. Book 4–6 weeks in advance.

☀️ Mar–May · Hot Season

Animals congregate near water. Tiger sightings near the reservoir can be spectacular. Temperatures 25–38°C — start early.

🌧️ Jun · Pre-Monsoon Close

Last window before closure. Lush green, atmospheric light. Zone closes mid-June. A memorable and less crowded visit.

Insider Advice

Tips for Dhikala

🕕Go for the morning slot. Safari gates open at 6 AM. Tigers are most active in the first two hours of daylight — missing the morning slot means missing the best chance.
📷Bring a zoom lens of at least 300mm. The open grassland is beautiful but animals can be at distance. A telephoto lens makes all the difference between a dot and a portrait.
🔇Stay quiet on approach. Talk softly and avoid sudden movements in the jeep. Tigers often freeze and assess before retreating — patience rewards you.
🌡️Dress in layers for winter safaris. Pre-dawn temperatures in December–January can drop below 5°C in an open jeep. Carry a fleece and muffler.
🎟️Book permits 30–60 days in advance. Dhikala is the most sought-after zone — permits run out fast on weekends and holidays. Our desk handles this for you.
🚫No plastic inside the zone. Carry a refillable bottle. Snacks in cloth or paper packaging only. Forest department rules are strictly enforced.

🌿 Dhikala Zone — Pricing

Morning Jeep Safari

6:00 AM – 9:00 AM · Per person

₹4,500

Full Day Entry (Canter)

Overnight zone stay · Seasonal only

₹6,500

Private Gypsy (6 seats)

Exclusive vehicle booking

₹12,000

Prices include permit, guide, and vehicle. Forest department fee may vary. Indicative — contact us for exact current rates.

Book Dhikala Safari →