Dhela Zone — The Buffer Forest
Jim Corbett's premier buffer zone — open 365 days a year including monsoon. Dhela's grasslands and riverine forests are the domain of leopards, sloth bears and magnificent birdlife.
Dhela — 365 Days Open
Dhela is one of Jim Corbett's most accessible and underrated safari zones — a buffer forest that remains open throughout the year, including July to September when the core zones close for the monsoon. Located on the southern boundary of the park, Dhela covers a mosaic of grasslands, sal forest and riverine habitat along the Dhela river.
While Dhela lacks the dramatic chaur grasslands of Dhikala or the dense forest of Bijrani, it compensates with exceptional leopard sighting opportunities — this shy cat thrives in buffer zones where tiger pressure is lower. Sloth bear sightings are more frequent here than in any core zone. The birdlife is extraordinary, with over 400 species recorded across seasons.
When Core Zones Close — Dhela Stays Open
During the monsoon (July–September), Dhela is one of the very few safari options available in the Corbett landscape. The forest transforms — impossibly lush, mist-draped and vibrant with colour. Fewer visitors mean more intimate wildlife encounters and the chance to photograph the forest in conditions unlike anything the peak season offers.
Getting Here
Dhela Gate is approximately 18 km from Jungle Junction via the Ramnagar–Kalagarh road. Our safari desk arranges permits and transport — departures at 6:00 AM for morning safaris.
🐾 Expert Tips for Dhela Zone
- Request routes through the riverine grassland strips for best leopard probability
- Dhela is the best monsoon safari option when core zones are closed
- Sloth bear sightings peak in late evening — book the afternoon slot when available
- Bring a birding checklist — this zone is a birder's dream with 400+ recorded species
- Dhela permits are easier to get than core zones — often available same-day off-peak
Zone Type: Buffer Zone
Season: Open 365 Days (Year-Round)
Timings: 6:00 AM · 2:30 PM
Duration: ~3 hours per safari
Distance from Jungle Junction: ~18 km
Best For: Leopard, sloth bear, birdwatching, monsoon visits
🗓️ Open During Monsoon
When Bijrani, Dhikala and most core zones close in June–July, Dhela remains open. If you're visiting Jim Corbett between July and September, Dhela Zone and Jhirna Zone are your primary safari options — and they deliver an atmospheric, lush experience unlike peak-season visits.
Wildlife of Dhela Zone
Dhela's buffer zone habitat creates ideal conditions for leopards and species not often found in core zones.
Dhela Zone Pricing
| Safari Type | Slot | Duration | Per Person | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Safari | Morning 6:00 AM | 3 hrs | ₹3,000 | Permit, Gypsy, Guide |
| Jeep Safari | Afternoon 2:30 PM | 3 hrs | ₹3,000 | Permit, Gypsy, Guide |
| Private Gypsy | Either slot | 3 hrs | ₹8,500/vehicle | Up to 6 persons |
⚠️ Prices are indicative and subject to Forest Department revision. Contact our safari desk for current confirmed rates and availability.