Dhikala Zone — The Crown of Corbett

Dhikala is not just a safari zone — it is a world unto itself. Situated at the heart of Jim Corbett National Park, this zone covers over 170 sq km of diverse habitat including vast open grasslands (locally called chaurs), dense riverine forest and the sprawling Ramganga Reservoir that serves as a year-round water source for the park's entire wildlife population.

The chaurs — undulating grasslands dotted with tall elephant grass and scattered shade trees — are the defining feature of Dhikala. During winter and spring, tigers, leopards and elephants emerge into these open grounds with remarkable regularity, giving visitors unobstructed, sustained sightings that wildlife photographers dream of.

The Ramganga Reservoir

The reservoir is the soul of Dhikala. Built in the 1970s, it stretches across thousands of acres and attracts extraordinary concentrations of wildlife, particularly in the dry season (March–May) when water sources elsewhere dry up. Safari routes along the reservoir edges routinely produce tiger sightings from as close as 20–30 metres. Crocodiles bask along the banks. Gharials surface mid-channel. Ospreys and fishing eagles dive for mahseer.

When to Visit Dhikala

The zone opens November 15 and closes June 15. The absolute best time for tiger sightings is March to May, when vegetation thins and tigers concentrate around water. October–November offers cooler weather and excellent bird activity. Overnight stays at Dhikala Forest Lodge require advance booking — our safari desk assists with this.