The only Jim Corbett zone open throughout the year — famous for sloth bear encounters and monsoon magic
Jhirna Zone holds a unique distinction among all Jim Corbett National Park zones — it is the only safari zone that remains open throughout the year, including the monsoon months of July through September when all other zones are closed. Located on the southern fringe of the park's buffer area, Jhirna is accessible via the Jhirna Gate near Ramnagar.
The zone is celebrated for its sloth bear sightings, making it particularly popular with wildlife enthusiasts who visit during the off-season. The monsoon period, when the forest turns impossibly green and streams run full, offers a dramatically different safari experience — lush vegetation, waterfalls on the hillsides, and peak bear activity as they forage for insects and berries.
Beyond sloth bears, Jhirna has a strong tiger presence and is a reliable zone for leopard sightings. The dense deciduous forest and seasonal streams create year-round water sources that keep wildlife active even in the driest months. Birdwatchers will find rich variety here in all seasons.
Jhirna is one of the best places in India to spot sloth bears, especially active during monsoon months.
Consistent tiger sightings recorded throughout the year, particularly near waterholes and stream crossings.
Dense forest cover and rocky terrain make Jhirna ideal leopard habitat, often spotted on ridges at dusk.
Large deer graze in forest clearings and are frequently seen at seasonal water sources.
The elusive jungle cat is occasionally spotted in the undergrowth, particularly near stream beds.
The monsoon season brings spectacular birdlife, including migratory species not found in winter.
Jhirna's rocky outcrops and berry-bearing trees make it perfect sloth bear territory year round.
July–September transforms the zone into a lush emerald landscape unlike any other season in Corbett.
Open grassland and stream beds are reliable wildlife congregation points throughout the year.
The only Corbett zone open 365 days — sloth bears, tigers and a monsoon jungle experience unlike anywhere else in India.
Open all 12 months — including monsoon season when all other zones are closed.