6 Best Safari Zones To Visit In Jim Corbett National Park

Corbett National Park is divided into five major eco-tourism zones to ensure the systematic management of tourism activities within the tiger reserve. These include Dhikala, Bijrani, Jhirna, Dhela, and Durga Devi. The forest authorities of Corbett Tiger Reserve regulate safari operations across these zones in two shifts.

Only a limited number of safari jeeps are allowed in each zone to control tourist movement and distribute visitors evenly. Each zone has its own unique landscape, wildlife, and natural charm, although all of them form part of the same larger ecosystem. Tiger sightings are possible across the zones, with variations mainly arising from differences in terrain and habitat.

# Dhikala Zone

The Dhikala Zone enjoys a special reputation among the tourist zones of Corbett National Park. It is one of the most popular destinations for wildlife enthusiasts and is particularly famous for its safari experiences and overnight stays at the Dhikala Forest Rest House. Located along the Patil Dun Valley, Dhikala is the largest tourism zone in Corbett and is blessed with an impressive diversity of flora and fauna.

The landscape features expansive grasslands known as Chaurs, dense Sal forests, and several channels of the Ramganga River, creating a spectacular natural setting. The sweeping view of the valley, framed by the Kanda Ridge in the distance, is especially captivating.

Dhikala is widely regarded as one of the best areas for tiger sightings and is a preferred choice for visitors planning an overnight wildlife experience. Besides tigers, visitors may encounter wild elephants, spotted deer, wild boar, hog deer, and barking deer, among other species.

# Jhirna Zone

Situated along the southern boundary of Corbett National Park, the Jhirna Zone was incorporated into the tiger reserve tourism circuit in 1994. Since then, it has become highly popular among wildlife enthusiasts. One of its biggest attractions is that it remains open to tourists throughout the year, subject to prevailing conditions and regulations.

Jhirna is known for frequent wildlife sightings, including occasional tiger encounters. Sloth bears are another major attraction of this zone. The area is also home to wild elephants, sambar, several species of deer, and a wide variety of birds, making it an exciting destination for wildlife and nature lovers.

# Bijrani Zone

For visitors looking for beautiful landscapes and the opportunity to spot the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, the Bijrani Zone is an excellent choice. After Dhikala, Bijrani is among the most popular and frequently visited tourism zones, particularly for day safaris.

The zone is known for its peaceful surroundings, dense forests, open grasslands, and picturesque scenery. Its varied landscape includes large grasslands, thick Sal forests, and seasonal streams, providing an ideal habitat for a wide range of wildlife.

Bijrani is also considered a promising area for tiger sightings. Day visitors can explore the zone through jeep safaris, for which advance online booking is generally required.

# Dhela Zone

The Dhela Zone is one of the newer tourism zones of Corbett National Park. It was opened for safari tourism in December 2014 and, like Jhirna, remains accessible to visitors throughout the year, although safari operations can be affected by weather and other conditions.

Dhela features a diverse landscape comprising dense forests of Sal, Haldu, Bahera, Rohini, and Kusum trees, along with expansive grasslands and several water bodies.

The zone supports a rich variety of wildlife, including Royal Bengal tigers, leopards, wild elephants, Nilgai, different species of deer, sloth bears, reptiles, and numerous bird species. Dhela is particularly appreciated by birdwatchers and is considered one of the excellent areas in Corbett for birding.

# Durga Devi Zone

With its hilly terrain, dense forests, and picturesque surroundings, the Durga Devi Zone is a wonderful destination for nature and wildlife lovers. Located on the northeastern edge of the Corbett landscape, the zone is rich in both flora and fauna.

The Ramganga and Mandal Rivers add to the beauty of this region, with their streams and water bodies creating a vibrant habitat for wildlife.

Apart from the Royal Bengal Tiger, visitors may spot leopards, wild elephants, and otters. The area around Domunda Bridge is particularly known for otter sightings, making this zone an interesting choice for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a different safari experience.

# Sitabani Buffer Zone

Located outside the core area of Corbett Tiger Reserve, the Sitabani Forest is a reserve forest that forms part of the surrounding buffer landscape and is open to visitors. The region is known for its scenic beauty, featuring dense forests, streams, and several ancient temples.

The forest provides a natural habitat for elephants, deer, sambar, Nilgai, and other herbivores, which can often be seen moving freely through the area. Tiger and leopard sightings are comparatively less frequent here than in some of Corbett's core tourism zones, but these predators do occasionally venture into the area in search of prey.

Sitabani offers a quieter and more natural experience, making it a good option for visitors interested in forests, birdwatching, landscapes, and the cultural heritage surrounding Corbett.