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Dhikala Zone Landscape
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Dhikala Zone
Jim Corbett's crown jewel — the largest core zone with the iconic Dhikala Chaur and mandatory forest night stays
The Greatest Safari in All of Corbett
Dhikala Zone is the undisputed crown jewel of Jim Corbett National Park, covering nearly two-thirds of the entire park area. Accessible only through the Dhangadhi Gate — a journey of over 30 km from the park boundary — Dhikala requires an overnight stay at the iconic Dhikala Forest Rest House, as day visits are not permitted due to the zone's depth within the protected core.
The landscape of Dhikala is defined by the spectacular Dhikala Chaur — one of the largest natural grasslands in the entire Himalayan foothills region — and the vast Ramganga reservoir that stretches to the north. This combination of open grassland and shimmering water creates extraordinary wildlife concentrations. Tiger sightings are a near-daily occurrence during peak season, and the grassland frequently hosts hundreds of chital, sambar, wild elephants and sloth bears in a single panoramic view.
Safari here is conducted by canter — a large open vehicle carrying multiple visitors — allowing wide visibility across the grassland. The Dhikala Forest Rest House is legendary in Indian wildlife tourism, and waking before dawn to see the Dhikala Chaur emerge from the mist, with tigers calling in the distance, is an experience that wildlife enthusiasts across the country place high on their bucket lists.
Why Choose Dhikala Zone?
- Largest zone — covers most of Corbett's protected core area
- Dhikala Chaur — the most spectacular grassland in all of Corbett
- Highest tiger density and most frequent sightings in the park
- Ramganga reservoir views — breathtaking natural backdrop
- Overnight forest stay for the most immersive Corbett experience
Wildlife You May Spot in Dhikala Zone
Dhikala has the highest tiger density in Corbett — near-daily sightings on the Dhikala Chaur in peak season.
Enormous herds roam the Chaur and Ramganga banks — often 50–100 individuals visible at once.
Spotted on sal forest edges and occasionally crossing the open Dhikala grassland at dawn.
Thousands of deer graze the Dhikala Chaur — one of the largest deer concentrations in India.
Large muggers bask on Ramganga reservoir banks — visible from the rest house terrace.
Storks, eagles, cormorants and kingfishers line the Ramganga — exceptional year-round birdwatching.
What Makes Dhikala Zone the Crown Jewel
The vast grassland is Corbett's most iconic landscape — a sweeping panorama alive with wildlife.
The shimmering lake forms the northern backdrop, teeming with water birds and crocodiles.
Waking at Dhikala before dawn to hear the jungle call is one of India's great wildlife travel moments.