Corbett's newest safari zone — where tiger territory meets the Dhela riverbed
Dhela Zone was added to Jim Corbett National Park's safari circuit in 2014, making it the newest zone available to visitors. Located in the core area near Ramnagar and accessed via the Dhela Gate, the zone has quickly built a strong reputation for tiger sightings and diverse wildlife encounters, thanks to its largely undisturbed mixed forest and the Dhela riverbed that runs through its heart.
The zone's landscape is a rich mosaic of mixed deciduous forest, grassland patches and the Dhela stream corridor. This riverbed is a natural magnet for wildlife — elephants drink at dawn, deer graze along the sandy banks, and tigers have been photographed crossing the stream on multiple occasions. The relatively low tourist footfall compared to Bijrani means sightings are often more intimate and unhurried.
Dhela is also notable for excellent bird diversity. The mixed forest edge and the stream riparian zone support a wide array of resident and migratory species. For travellers seeking the full Corbett experience without the crowds of the more famous zones, Dhela offers an authentic and increasingly rewarding alternative.
Tiger sightings are increasing as the zone matures. Stream crossings and grassland edges are hotspots.
Large herds visit the Dhela riverbed at dawn — one of the zone's most reliable sighting spots.
Mixed forest and rocky terrain suit leopards well, with regular sightings near the stream.
Spotted deer graze in grassland patches alongside the stream, always alert to predators.
Common across grassland edges and mixed forest, often seen in family groups rooting for food.
Rich bird diversity along the Dhela corridor — kingfishers, raptors and forest warblers.
The stream corridor is the zone's lifeline, attracting elephants, tigers and deer to its sandy banks.
Open mixed grasslands within the forest create perfect conditions for wildlife observation.
Dense, diverse forest cover providing habitat for leopards, tigers and birds.
Lowest tourist footfall, rising tiger sightings and the scenic Dhela riverbed — Corbett's newest zone is fast becoming its best-kept secret.
Lowest crowds in all of Corbett — an intimate and authentic wildlife experience.